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Subaru Forester - One Area Consumer Reports Says The SUV Needs Improvement

The 2023 Subaru Forester makes Consumer Reports recommended models list. But they say there is one thing they hold against the compact SUV. Check out the report here.

Should you put the 2023 Subaru Forester on your shopping list this summer? Consumer Reports (by subscription) latest reliability rankings say the Forester compact SUV is on its recommended models list. But they say the Forester needs one thing. Should it keep you from buying one?

Consumer Reports' ten top picks for the most reliable and fuel-efficient compact SUVs are listed according to their overall score. They are all recommended by Consumer Reports.

2023 Subaru Forester
photo credit: Tucson Subaru

The Consumer Reports' ten recommended compact SUVs that are the most reliable and fuel-efficient. Subaru Forester is ranked #1 with a score of 87, Lexus NX Hybrid (87), Hyundai Tucson Hybrid (83), Toyota RAV4 Prime (81), Kia Sportage Hybrid (80), Toyota RAV4 Hybrid (78), Toyota Corolla Cross (77), BMW X1 (77), Lexus UX (75), and Ford Escape Hybrid (72).

What does CR say about the Forester?

"The popular Forester delivers a satisfying combination of a roomy interior, excellent visibility, commendable fuel economy, simple controls, a comfortable ride, and responsive handling. The 2.5-liter four-cylinder CVT returned 28 mpg overall in our tests, among the best in class. The cabin has a particularly generous rear seat and effortless access."

2023 Subaru Forester

Where does CR say the Forester needs to improve?

CR says, "But acceleration isn't exhilarating, and the engine's noise isn't the most pleasant." Should this keep you from buying the Forester?

The 2024 Forester gets a complete remodel, but Subaru has yet to announce the new upgrades. Forester will get updated exterior styling, interior upgrades, infotainment, and next-generation safety features. Subaru is tight-lipped about future product plans, but sources tell us the new compact SUV will get new engine upgrades, so you may want to wait. Stay tuned for more information.

What is the price of the 2023 Forester?

The 2023 Forester comes in six trim levels; The Base Forester starts at $27,620, Premium ($30,620), Sport ($32,190), Limited ($34,300), Wilderness ($35,245), and Touring ($37,720). Pricing includes dealer fees ($1,225).

Is the Forester fuel efficient?

The 2023 Subaru Forester, with standard all-wheel-drive, is the number two small SUV in fuel mileage with 28 combined mpg and 20/38 city/highway mpg.

What sets the Forester apart from the other models?

Will you use your vehicle for off-pavement adventures? The 2023 Subaru Forester comes with 8.7 inches of ground clearance, standard all-wheel-drive, and dual-function X-Mode that sets it apart from the competition.

The Forester Sport and Wilderness trim levels feature a new dual-function X-Mode with deep mud and deep snow mode for added extreme weather performance.

What are Forester's safety scores?

A new report from Money picks the best autos of 2023 and says the Forester is a top value pick for new model shoppers and one of the top five picks in the 2-Row SUV segment. They picked Forester for its stellar safety scores. Check out Forester's safety report here.

Consumer Reports says the 2023 Subaru Forester is recommended and is the best in class in the compact SUV segment. Forester scores high in reliability and fuel efficiency and is a good value for small SUV shoppers this summer. Unless you pull a trailer, go over a 12,000-foot mountain pass, or carry extra cargo weight. The 2023 Forester 2.5-liter engine will perform well for you and should not keep you from buying the compact SUV.

You Might Also Like: 12 Easy Tips To Improve Your New Subaru Or Any Car’s Fuel Mileage This Summer

Denis Flierl has invested over 30 years in the automotive industry in a consulting role working with every major car brand. He is an accredited member of the Rocky Mountain Automotive Press. Check out Subaru Report, where he covers the Japanese automaker's models. More stories can be found on the Torque News Subaru page. Follow Denis on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

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Photo credit: Subaru