The 2010 Subaru Forester is much taller than its ten-year-old predecessor but remains compact. See more size comparisons with the Forester in today's slideshow. (Photos by Brady Holt)
Most cars grow over time, as each redesign tries to add more space than the car it replaces. But automakers are also aware that compact exterior dimensions are also important to many of their customers -- especially change-averse loyalists. With many of Subaru's customers sticking with the brand for its heralded all-wheel-drive system, the company has seen to it that its 2010 Forester -- which spent a week with the DC Car Examiner -- didn't become too big.
The Forester did grow over the years, yes. The current model four inches longer than one that's ten years old, it's two inches wider and taller, and it's 200 pounds heavier. The growth pays off with more headroom above higher, more comfortable seats, and it remains firmly in the compact SUV class.
One thing that has not changed in the last ten years is the Forester's price; the base Forester today comes with much more equipment than the 2000 model but starts at just $200 more.
The Forester's fuel consumption is also fairly small. It drank around 18.5 gallons of regular unleaded over the course of some 500 miles, working out to more than 27 miles per gallon.
See more size-comparison photos of the Forester in today's slideshow, and check back tomorrow for a full review of the vehicle.
Day 1: Introduction Vehicle tested: 2010 Subaru Forester Key specifications:
Day 3: Cargo management
Day 5: Interior details
Day 7: Navigation system
Day 8: Exterior size
Full review
Vehicle base price (MSRP): $20,295
Version tested: 2.5X Limited
Version base price (MSRP): $25,995
Vehicle price as tested (MSRP): $29,148
Estimated transaction price as tested: $26,653
Odometer at beginning of test: 3,055 miles
Odometer at end of test: 3,558 miles
Test vehicle provided by: Subaru of America
Length: 179.5 inches
Width: 70.1 inches
Height: 66.9 inches
Wheelbase: 103.0 inches
Weight: 3,360 pounds
Cargo volume behind rear seat: 30.8 cubic feet
Cargo volume behind front seats: 63.0 cubic feet
Turning radius: 17.2 feet
Engine (as tested): 2.5-liter H4 with 170 horsepower
Transmission: 4-speed automatic
EPA city mileage: 20 miles per gallon
EPA highway mileage: 26 miles per gallon
Observed gas mileage during test: 27.1 miles per gallon
Comments
I can't imagine being change averse w/ a car. I look forward every year to see what they have done differently w/ my faves.
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