Subaru Forester (2002 - 2008) 2.0 X 5d (AWP) (2004/04) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

I'd like to think it says I'm a savvy car buyer who knows a good all-rounder when he sees it and doesn't want to be yet another driver of a bland ubiquitous plastic-y snoozemobile like a Focus. Probably it actually says that I got a weird looking car for the sake of utility and being a bit different - not really concerned what others think though, its a great car.

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

Generally positive but confused - many haven't even seen a Forester before, they know Subaru from rallying but don't know why theyre seeing the name on a tall estate car. Everyone who has been for a ride likes it.

Would you buy this car again and why?

I might.be tempted with a similar age XT if I could afford the extra fuel. Don't like the look of the facelifted 2nd gen (the car in the stock pic used here) or the later generation but the '03-'05 cars are the nicest looking Foresters in my opinion.

What are you likely to buy next?

Don't know, happy with this for the time being!

Type of dealer you bought from?

Independent

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£0

When did you buy the car?

August 2014

Did you get a good deal and why?

Couple of little problems with it the garage 'forgot' to mention but the price was about right.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

Wanted something a bit different with 4WD, Japanese reliability and estate car practicality.

What was the dealer like?

Friendly enough, bit cowboyish.

What's it like to drive?

Fantastic - really nimble and agile, handles like a small hatch. Feels a lot quicker than it is, lovely engine note, steering nicely weighted. On the downside the gearchange is a little rubbery and vague and it's suprisingly easy to stall at low speeds - non-turbos need a lot of revs. Overall really enjoy driving it.

What's it like to park?

Great - no parking sensors but good visibility and tight turning circle.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Drivers window is totally dead, other window motors feel slow and tired.

What's most practical about your car?

Boot space, good visibility, the driving position is great - high enough to be useful but not so high it stops the handling being so good.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

Massive sunroof, low-range box, 3 power sockets are useful, A/C is excellent. The all weather spec is great for the bit extra you pay.