Subaru Forester (1997 - 2003) 2.0 AWD S-Turbo 5d (2001/Y) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

Nothing. Or rather, it is a clever buy; low key, and a car that can walk the walk and talk the talk, although not as capable a true 4wd.

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

They thunk I'm a clever chap, buying a car that will be able to get anywhere on our local roads if it snows (and if I'm allowed to purchase snow tyres!).

Would you buy this car again and why?

Oh yes. But I'd wait until i could afford the STi version. As long as I could justify the fuel bills......

What are you likely to buy next?

My Vauxhall Insignia SRi is due for change in March 2015, and I'll probably replace that with a Vauxhall Zafira Tourer cdti SRi auto, but will probably sell the Subaru after the winter and get another next autumn.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Didn't buy from a dealer

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£700

When did you buy the car?

November 2014

Did you get a good deal and why?

Yes, as it stands. Service records show that the car has been well maintained and that future outlay will be minimal, other than consumables.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

I was looking to buy a cheap 4wd, as I live on the very edge of a rural area that suffers from ice and snow in winter which makes roads impassable to fwd and rwd cars This was low mileage, and owned by its second owners for nearly 10yrs, with very good service history & essential maintenance carried out.

What was the dealer like?

N/A

What's it like to drive?

Excellent. Plenty of go with 170bhp, but only has a 5sp gearbox, and no low ratio as it's the turbo. It drives like an Impreza on short stilts but with softer suspension. Overall, very happy at present, it would love an STi with 300bhp....!

What's it like to park?

Very easy due to the driving position. Would love parking sensors, and would fit them myself if I was keeping the car long-term.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Not at this time, although I've only just bought the car.

What's most practical about your car?

4wd agility and ability to keep going when most cars can't. Plenty of space both for passengers and luggage, and big glass sunroof makes the interior light.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

Two; The engine which gives the car some oomph to the surprise of many motorists. Second, the little button down near the drivers right knee that activates heating elements at the bottom of the windscreen, meaning the wiper blades don't stick and get damaged when cold.