The Subaru Forester, with its rugged disposition and all-wheel drive prowess, has long been a favorite in snow-belt states. Turns out, it should also resonate with customers on the brighter side of the country as well.
Here in the Sonoran desert, somewhere southwest of Tucson, Ariz., the latest version of the popular crossover is showing why.
Careening down a dirt road and kicking up dust, the 2014 Forester gives its occupants a surprisingly smooth ride. Blazing across a private racetrack, it flaunts good acceleration and generous stability through tight turns. Climbing up a rocky embankment, it earns some legitimate off-road credibility.
Back in reality, plodding through traffic-clogged Interstate 10, it demonstrates a few features that more practical and less adventurous car buyers will find equally appealing.
The 2014 Forester is significantly different than its previous generation, offering customers a bigger cabin, more cargo space and some serious improvements under the hood and in fuel economy.
From its beginnings as a wagon 13 years ago, this Forester completes the model's transition into a full-fledged crossover. There are substantial changes to appreciate.
One example: Engineers pushed the car's front pillar forward by eight inches and extended the windshield, allowing for great visibility and, once you look past a plethora of dust-choked trailer parks, a beautiful view of the Santa Catalina Range. Subaru lengthened its panoramic moonroof too. Along with a boost in seat height, those alterations give the driver a terrific view, whether its road or scenery.
But it's not only what's outside that makes the Forester a surprisingly fun car to drive, it's what's inside too. There are some technical and performance enhancements that really put the ' 14 Forester, at dealerships in March, at or near the forefront of its crossover class.
Read on to find out how they help the Forester: