First Drive: 2014 Subaru Forester Review

Run, Forester, Run! The all-new 2014 Subaru Forester is set to go.

Ucluelet, British Columbia – Taking the baton from the highly successful, outgoing 2007-2013 Forester, the all-new, 4th-generation 2014 Subaru Forester will feel the pressure. But now, with progressive exterior styling, an increase in cargo, and even a bit faster, the 2014 Forester should continue to climb the success chart, with or without X-Mode.

2014-Subaru-Forester rear
2014 Subaru Forester. Photo: Amee Reehal

Progression is a peculiar thing. Whether we accept that or not, it’s inevitable. And in today’s fast-paced, hungry-for-new society, change is the name of the game. Subaru understands this, and for an SUV that’s been around since 1997, going into its ‘new life’ is only fitting. It’s like replacing Michael Jordan in his prime. Or Chrissy on Three’s Company, just when her and Jack Tripper were getting along. Ok, not quite. But the Forester accounts for nearly a quarter of all Subaru Canada sales. Nearly all of this success coming from the more streamlined, 3rd-generation Forester over the past six years of it’s cycle.

2014-Subaru-Forester three models parked in a row

Subaru held the official 2014 Subaru Forester media launch event two hours north of gorgeous Nanaimo, British Columbia, where a 15-minute plane ride from Vancouver to Nanaimo reminded me of CBC’s BeachCombers, followed by a stunning 2-hour drive west through Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, finally landing in Ucluelet — a small town settled along the cliffs exposed to the vastness that is the Pacific Ocean, where surfers and Subarus abound.

I’ve never seen so many old-school Subies, often 2 or 3 in a row on the highway. And, of course, the more nostalgic Subarus with roof-strapped surfboards, almost like the modern-day VW bus or Bug. Except with more mary-jane and utilitarian, off-road capability with AWD, no less.

2014-Subaru-Forester-white profile side

It’s clear why Subaru loyalists have embraced this somewhat unconventional SUV — because it’s just that: a Sport. Utility. Vehicle. Where function may out-weight form, but when you’re up before dawn to catch that first wave, rocketing down the twisty, rocky path en route to the shore, I’d imagine utility and safety is your primary concern.

Exterior Styling

Yes, I’m a fan of the outgoing 2013 Forester exterior styling. But if change is inevitable, the all-new 4th-gen 2014 Subaru Forester redesign is done proper. The 2014 is essentially the exact same dimensional footprint as outgoing and the general styling proportions are the same as well ; but now with dramatically more chiseled features, particularly the new front grill fascia. Below, comparing the 2013 Forester front-end vs 2014 Forester:

2013 vs. 2014 Forester Front Grill:

2013-Subaru-Forester-front grill
Outgoing 2013 Subaru Forester Front End
2014-Subaru-Forester-front-grill
All-new 2014 Subaru Forester Front End

The wider camera lens on the 2014 grill may exaggerate the wider proportions a little, but you get the general front-end styling cue differences. From the side, the 2014 Forester looks almost indistinguishable from outgoing (trust me, I know…gawking at my neighbour’s 2013 Forester, making mental comparison notes, the styling is etched into my mind):

2014-Subaru-Forester-side view

Subaru has done a great job updating the styling without overdoing it. With 220mm ground clearance, this SUV sits high enough to traverse mountains yet low enough to stow groceries. It’s jacked-up without ever looking jacked-up because the long shoulder lines and swooping long hood help proportion the vehicle.

Granted, many will disapprove (as usual), disliking the progressive front end. However, for those in the SUV market who are not entirely familiar with the Forester brand, the newly-designed, bold 2014 Forester may garner some potential buyers. From a distance, the 2014 Subaru Forester does look stunning, clearly veering onto a new, perhaps more enlightened design path:

2014-Subaru-Forester-dark blue side view

The 2014 Forester’s rear doesn’t see the drastic design cues as the front; the look is less aggressive yet works well with the front and overall design. The tailights aren’t funky, and the bottom grill fascia is clean and streamlined. The rear tailgate now also finds a rear-inner gate switch for hands-free door duties. Always nice.

2 Models: Forester 2.5i and Forester 2.0XT turbo

2014-Subaru-Forester-taillights

The all-new 2014 Forester is available in the Forester 2.5i with a naturally-aspirated 2.5-litre SUBARU BOXER engine making 170 hp. Or the sportier new Forester 2.0XT with the 2.0-litre turbocharged SUBARU BOXER engine producing 250 hp.

The 2.5i now has the Lineartronic CVT (a 6-speed stick is still optional on the entry-level model), which felt responsive and tight through the windy mountainous twisties. But the 2.0XT is blessed with the good stuff, including a high-torque CVT with 6-speed and 8-speed manual shift modes and steering-wheel paddle shifters.

2014-Subaru-Forester front grill

The entry-level 2.5i will be available in a Convenience Package with a PZEV option, a Touring Package, and a Limited Package with the EyeSight option. The 2.5i entry-level and Touring Package offers a choice between a new 6-speed manual transmission or Subaru’s CVT. All CVT-equipped Foresters have a brand-new X-Mode and Hill Descent Control feature, which works in conjunction with Subaru’s full-time AWD.

2014-Subaru-Forester-x-modeSubaru Forester 2.0XT Steps it Up

Of the two models, the turbocharged 2.0XT has the most significant changes. New features in the 2.0XT include the 2.0L turbo engine mated to the CVT with steering-wheel-mount paddle switches, an SI-Drive mode, tighter performance-tuned suspension with 18-inch stylish wheels, dual exhaust, larger front, and rear disc brakes with vented rears, blackened headlamps, and distinct front/rear fascias.

Another distinct feature of the Forester 2.0XT is the sporty front bumper that provides an updated appeal while showcasing the differences between the engine choices—18-inch alloy wheels with black and machined, high-relief finish.

X-Mode Time

2014-Subaru-Forester-hill decent
Testing the Hill Decent feature. Photo: Amee Reehal

Activated by a switch on the centre console, X-Mode is essentially a magic-button. This one button controls the engine, transmission, AWD system, brakes, VDC, and other critical components. All are optimized for steep inclines and wet surfaces, all increasing safety and performance.

Even Better Symmetrical AWD System

2014-Subaru-Forester-white profile

The Japanese automaker’s renowned all-wheel-drive system finds enhancements for 2014, including a new-generation active torque split AWD. Whereas previous systems responded to input torque and differential speed compensation based on the wheel speeds, the new system adds input from the VDC system, improving steering wheel angle, yaw rate, traverse, and acceleration. The new AWD system improves traction, handling, and responsiveness in low-friction environments.

2014 Forester Interior

2014-Subaru-Forester-interior

Inside, the 2014 Subaru Forester feels spacious for a compact SUV. For 2014, the centre console back is moved 99mm forward. Scalloped front seatbacks and rear seat occupants moved 23mm back, also opening things up in the rear cabin. Also, the centre tunnel height dropped a hefty 66mm, opening up to the back. Up front, the instrument panel top moved further forward; shoulder room and driver/passenger separation also increased. Overall, the 2014 Forester gets a 9-percent bump in cargo capacity.

forester-colour-display
Colour Multi-Function Display. Photo: Amee Reehal

In other words, Subaru has taken the SUV and stripped it of its essentials. And now, with some sexy styling, the 2014 Subaru Forester may hit the mainstream. I’d bank on it.

Driver position and seat comfort in the all-new Forester are also improved, with tilt-adjustable front seat headrests improving lumber pressure, to name a couple. Also, improved ingress/egress, opening up the door passages, i.e., the A-pillar has been moved forward, and a clean sill design reduces stepover distance.

The instrumentation and control layout are super simple yet super straight. One may feel a Japanese automaker indulges in glitzy electronics like many of its rivals. But the 2014 Subaru Forester keeps it honest…the controls are within reach and logically organized. The Colour Multi-Function Display includes a plethora of driver-aware features.

2014-Subaru-Forester-interior
2014-Subaru-Forester-interior
2014-Subaru-Forester-interior
2014-Subaru-Forester-interior
2014-Subaru-Forester-interior

2014-Subaru-Forester-headlightChild Friendly

If you’re a parent, as I am, you undoubtedly lose patience over vehicular, non-child-friendly annoyances, like kids strapped in the back who can’t reach the cup holders. Or they can’t board/onboard with ease. Well, the all-new Forester has acknowledged us as helpless parents. With wider rear door openings and a larger rear door sill with an anti-slip texture, kids will have an easier time. Also, tether anchors have moved to the seatback, and the rear seat surface is contoured a bit better to accommodate child seats. Subaru, we thank you.

Pros:

  • The CVT tranny and tight suspension provide stellar handling
  • 2.0XT turbo steps it up with new features
  • Reasonable price-point: under $40K for top-of-line
  • Bold new exterior styling
  • The overall best compact SUV in the market?

Cons:

  • Progressive exterior styling is not for everyone
  • The cabin may lack the glitz some SUV consumers seek
  • Outgoing Forester remains at the top of its game

2014 Subaru Forester 2.0XT Technical Specs

  • Engine: 2.0-litre DOHC, 16-valve, horizontally opposed, 4-cylinder SUBARU BOXER engine with twin-scroll turbocharger and intercooler
  • Horsepower: 250-hp @ 56oo rpm
  • Torque: 258 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm
  • Transmission: Lineartronic CVT with manual 6 and 8 manual modes
  • Type: 5-passenger, compact SUV
  • Wheels: 18″ x 7″ aluminum alloy, black and machined finish with high-relief design
  • Tires: 225/55R18 97H Bridgestone Dueler all-seasons
  • Brakes: ABS, 4-channel/4-sensor/4-wheel
  • Suspension:  4-wheel fully independent with rear double-wishbone
  • Cargo: 974/892 (volume with seats up)
  • Towing capacity: max. weight with trailer brakes- 680kg; without brakes- 453kg
  • Fuel economy – City/Highway (L/100km/h):  Auto Transmission- 8.9/7.2L/100km
Up Next:
Author:
Amee Reehal
Amee Reehalhttps://www.ameereehal.com/
Shooting cars and bikes professionally since film was a thing, for over 20 years, Amee has collaborated with the major automakers and agencies, and his work has been published in various global outlets including MotorTrend, GlobeDrive, SuperStreet, Chicago Tribune, PerformanceBMW, and others. He’s an automotive writer and founder/managing editor of TractionLife.com, focusing on digital marketing & SEO for the past ten years (backed by a marketing degree, go figure). Find him travelling, spending time with his kids and family. Or golfing, poorly.