First Drive: New 2014 Subaru Forester – Larger, Faster, More Efficient.

2014 subaru forester first drive review
2014 Subaru Forester XT Turbo at the 2012 LA Auto Show

The information embargo has been lifted and all details about the new 2014 Subaru Forester are here for you to browse.  This crossover has been redesigned inside and out with primary focus on utility, usability, and efficiency.  The 2014 Forester is about one inch larger in every dimension than the outgoing model.  The front and rears door openings are about five inches wider than before, the floor is a little lower, and the seat are a little higher.  What does it mean?  It means the Forester is focused on ergonomics, ease of entry and exit, and overall increased interior space.  By the way, the cargo area is wider than before due to new rear suspension packaging.

Under the hood of the base model is the familiar 2.5 liter 4 cylinder boxer engine, which is largely unchanged from current model.  This motor makes 170 hp and 174 lb-ft of torque.  If this is not enough, you can opt for the new 2.0 liter turbocharged boxer motor in the XT model, which is good for 250 horses.

There are some changes for the new XT model.  First, it’s solely available with a CVT transmission, there are no other transmission options.  Second, it loses the aggressive hood scoop of previous generations.  How can you tell between the base 2.5i and the 2.0 XT from the outside?  The XT has a unique more aggressive front bumper and fascia, dual exhausts out back, and of course the XT badge on the hatch.

2014 subaru forester pricing guide

Pricing is a little higher than the outgoing 2013 model.  The 2014 Forester starts at $21,995 (before delivery charges) for the base 2.5i model with 6 speed manual transmission.  This is $700 higher than current base model.  By the way, the current model comes with a 5 speed manual and is rated at 21/27 MPG.  For 2014, you get an extra gear and much improved 24/32 MPG.  You can step up to the brisk 2.0 XT turbocharged model that start at $27.995.

We hope to do a full and proper review of the 2014 Forester soon.  For now, please enjoy this First Drive Review video where Roman puts the new 2014 Forester through its paces on and off the pavement, as well as on the race track.  Watch to see how fast the turbo Forester goes 0-60 MPH.