The Inside
The Forester's dash sits higher against the windshield than you'll find in many SUVs, which gives the cabin a more carlike feel and a lower perceived driving position. Thanks to the large side and rear windows, however, overall visibility remains excellent.
A height-adjustable driver's seat is standard, but the steering wheel in most models only tilts, and its adjustment range is limited. You have to upgrade to the turbocharged model to get a telescoping wheel, which allows drivers of varying sizes to position themselves a safe, comfortable distance from the steering wheel and its airbag. It's an unfortunate omission, seeing as both the CR-V and RAV4 have telescoping wheels across all trims.
Interior quality is good, if occasionally inconsistent. The materials vary: The upper dash panels have an upscale finish, but some of the plastics lining the glove compartment look grainy and cheap. If you like silver plastic, your day has come: The stuff has spread like foreclosures in Tampa. Here it adorns the center controls, dash, steering wheel, gearshift and doors. The steering wheel has a satisfying grip, but I found the blue-and-white gauges a bit tacky. Other controls, from the turn signals to the window switches, show sturdy construction, and overall fit and finish is respectable.
See also:
Under the rear floor
1) Jack handle
A) 4-door models
B) 5-door models
1) Under-floor storage compartment (if equipped) (Refer to “Under-floor storage compartment”.)
2) Tool bucket
3) Spare tire
A) 4-door models
...
Safety precautions
- For safety reasons, avoid operating
the cell phone while driving.
- Do not make a phone call while
driving. When you have an incoming
call, stop the vehicle in a
safe location before ta ...
Front passenger’s seat (if equipped)
1) Seat position forward/backward control switch
To adjust the seat forward or backward, move the control switch forward or backward.
2) Seatback angle (reclining) control switch
To adjust the an ...