Ride & Handling

The original Forester was one of the first SUVs to adopt a four-wheel-independent suspension, and this year's model has a new double-wishbone rear setup. Several journalists on the media drive complained of excessive body roll — possibly the result of no rear stabilizer bar, which was standard on the outgoing model — but I think most drivers will find that the Forester's handling ranks among the sportier SUVs in its class. The chassis remains poised over curvy roads, and Subaru's all-wheel-drive system delivers unflappable grip accelerating out of a turn.

The steering system offers a quicker turning ratio this year. It delivers lively response, with reasonably crisp turn-in and more feedback about changing road conditions than you get in some sedans, let alone SUVs. Some SUVs accomplish this sporty feel by dialing back the power-steering assist so much that the steering wheel becomes too stiff at low speeds — the Mazda CX-7 springs to mind — but the Forester's steering is well below this threshold, and its 34.4-foot turning circle beats eight of its major competitors, some by more than 5 feet. Outstanding.

Subaru says it took extensive steps to address road and wind noise this time around, and indeed, highway noise now seems about average for a small SUV. It's not as quiet as a Honda CR-V, but it's a distinct improvement over the previous Forester.

    See also:

    Where to place a child restraint system
    The following are SUBARU’s recommendations on where to place a child restraint system in your vehicle. A: Front passenger’s seat You should not install a child restraint system (including a booste ...

    To hook the top tether
    CAUTION Always remove the head restraint when mounting a child restraint system with a top tether. Failure to do so may prevent the top tether from being fastened tightly. Outback 1. Remove the ...

    Front passenger cup holder
    Do not pick up a cup from the cup holder or put a cup in the holder while you are driving, as this may distract you and lead to an accident. A dual cup holder is built in the center c ...