Subaru forestrer boxer diesel

[suzannecraig]

We are going to have a look at the Subaru forester, I would just like know if anyone is towing with a Forester.What it's like as a towcar,we do like the look of it but would like other pepole's opinion.At the moment we tow with a Jaguar X-type.

Many thank's

Sue.

 

[xtrailman]

I have only test driven the forester.

The engine is very good, far better than the CRV i test drove, and on a par if not better than the latest xtrail i have.

But the real let down was the dated interior, and the expensive price tag.

 

[Gagakev]

Sorry cant help you with the diesel version, had a petrol for over three weeks as replacement hire car. (mine was hit by an artic in the icy weather) unlike you I didnt like the shape but have to admit the comfort, driving position, power and handling was superb and I think it would tow ok.

All in all it's only the look that put me off, but hey if we all liked the same thing life would be boring

 

[RogerL]

I have the Forester's big brother, the Outback which tows 1500kg impeccably despite a 1520kg kerbweight, mainly thanks to it's self-levelling suspension. Mine is the gas-guzzling petrol but the diesel version is excellent, the engine seems to be the best 2.0 diesel around, bar none, fuel consumption is miserly.

All Subaru's are lighter than their size would indicate but still stronger than most - this doesn't generally endear them to caravanners for whom kerbweight is everything.

If you don't especially need extra ground clearance, look at the Legacy 2.0D - same 4wd but with normal clearance.

 

[Jonathan_374242743]

I've had a diesel Outback since April 2008 which as far as the engine is concerned is the same as the Forester. The engine is superb, tows 1400kg's of Adria fine and has really respectable fuel economy - even when towing and never getting beyond forth gear (might be better with the 6 speed box on the new Outback and Forester.

The clutch is an art when towing, takes time to learn avoiding massive slippage when getting on-board Portsmouth ferries. Don't expect to reverse a van too far up any gradient without getting a very nasty burning smell, fortunately only had to do this once on a tricky pitch. Of course this maybe my relative inexperience having only towed for 1 year.

As for general driving, you can't fault the Subaru build quality and AWD system, the winter weather this Jan proved it's virtually unstoppable.

The one great comment I always get, is from passengers who have never been in the car before - they're all surprised when I tell them it's a diesel - it really is that quiet when warmed up!

If you want a seriously reliable, quiet and comfortable car with reasonable towing abilities, then you can't go wrong with a Subaru diesel - even if people mistake the bonnet scoop for something that should be mush faster!

 

[Glenn_5132962]

I really miss my old impreza, it was a fantasic machine but too light to feel safe towing my caravan. I swapped to a Jag X-type & it is a much better tow car. Not sure of the kerb weight of the forrester but it is a jacked up impreza underneith so I suspect its quite light. Check your weights carefully before taking the plunge.