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.

See also:

To increase the speed (by button)
To increase the speed (by button) Push the “RES/ACC” button and hold it until the vehicle reaches the desired speed. Then, release the button. The vehicle speed at that moment will be mem ...

Besting Midsize Benchmarks
Built on an all-new platform, the 2010 Subaru Legacy offers roominess comparable to mainstream midsize sedans, with a focus on usable space and long-distance driving comfort. The wheelbase grows t ...

Power door locking switches
1) Lock 2) Unlock All doors and the rear gate (Outback) can be locked and unlocked by the power door locking switches located at the driver’s side and the front passenger’s side doors. To lock ...