2010 Subaru Forester review

In its first full redesign since the 2003 model year, the Subaru Forester has moved closer to the mainstream than some fans might have hoped it would. The old model's boxy charm has been toned down, and what's left is a compact SUV whose driving dynamics are on par with some of the nimbler players in this segment. A few Forester diehards may cry foul, but I suspect the changes will widen the car's appeal to the market in general. The SUV remains as practical as ever, but now boasts enough refinement to merit serious consideration from anyone shopping the latest Honda CR-V or Toyota RAV4.

Trim levels include the 2.5X and 2.5X L.L.Bean, along with turbocharged 2.5XT and 2.5XT Limited versions; click here to see a side-by-side comparison with the 2008 model. Subaru's full-time all-wheel-drive system is standard. I drove a number of configurations both on- and off-road at a press event in Southern California.

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Tongue load
Tongue load WARNING If the trailer is loaded with more weight in the back of trailer’s axle than in the front, the load is taken off the rear axle of the towing vehicle. This may cause the rea ...

Checking the oil level
Non-turbo models 1) Yellow handle Turbo models except STI Check the oil level monthly. 1. Park the vehicle on a level surface and stop the engine. 2. Pull out the level gauge, wipe it clean, and ...

Selection of manual mode
With the vehicle either moving or stationary, move the select lever from the “D” position to the manual gate then move it to the “+” end or “−” end of the manual gate to select manua ...