When I tell my friends I drive a Subaru Forester, their first reaction is bewilderment. "Why do you need that plain little box?" they ask. Then we go fishing, mushroom picking, or just exploring the countryside, and their opinions change dramatically. My journey with the 2019 Forester began precisely with the need for a car that would be equally at home on pavement and where it ends. Over three years and 70,000 kilometers, it has traveled with me through mud, snowdrifts, mountain serpentines, and endless city traffic. And I'm ready to share the unique experience of owning a car that has an unparalleled combination of qualities, but also has its own complex character.
The Forester's appearance is its signature. It doesn't try to be pretty; it's functional. A tall body with vertical glass, large wheel arches, and a modest plastic trim along the lower section. This understated beauty grows on you over time. The plastic is resistant to scratches from branches, and the sills are high, meaning less dirt on the doors. My car, in dark green metallic, blends perfectly into the forest landscape. The body build quality is excellent: no play or squeaks, even after serious jolting over potholes. The headlights with cornering lights are pure magic on dark, winding roads. They literally peer around the bend, illuminating the side of the road.
The interior is spacious and practical. Everything is well-made, but without being overly fancy. The materials are pleasant to the touch, and nothing creaks. The seats are well-supported, including the driver's seat, which is electrically adjustable. But the most important thing is the visibility! The huge windows and almost nonexistent pillars create the feeling of driving in a glass aquarium. 360-degree visibility is a huge plus both off-road and in the city. There's plenty of room in the back, and the trunk is huge and square. I've slept in the trunk with the second row folded down on several occasions while camping—there's plenty of room to spare. The dual-zone climate control works flawlessly. The music system is average, but adequate for my needs.
The heart of the car: a boxer engine and all-wheel drive
I have a version with a 2.5-liter flat-six gasoline engine (171 hp) and a Lineartronic CVT. This combination is the soul of a Subaru. The engine is mounted low, which gives it a low center of gravity and fantastic cornering stability, even for such a tall car. The engine sound is a characteristic, smooth rumble. Reliability is excellent: after 70,000 km, only scheduled maintenance. I change the oil every 10,000 km (semi-synthetic 5W-30), and the air filter every 15,000. Consumption: combined cycle - 10.5-11.5 l/100 km. On the highway at 110 km/h - 8.5-9 liters. In the city with traffic jams - up to 13-14 liters. For permanent all-wheel drive and this volume, this is normal.
Variator
Many people are afraid of it. My experience has been positive. It's ideal for smooth, powerful off-road driving and comfortable city driving. There are no jerky shifts. In Sport mode and with the paddle shifters, it simulates fixed gears, which adds excitement on the pavement. The main rule is to avoid abrupt starts with wheelspin and not towing heavy trailers. The Symmetrical AWD system is worth the price. It's not a plug-in drive, but a constant one. The car is always on all four wheels. On slippery roads, in mud, in snow—the feeling of confidence is indescribable. It simply goes where you look. I've repeatedly gotten out of situations where other SUVs would bottom out.
Operation, maintenance and weak points
I get my car serviced at an authorized dealer because I value genuine parts and quality work. Prices are above average, but not exorbitant. Scheduled maintenance costs 25,000-35,000 rubles. Unscheduled maintenance in three years: at 50,000 km, I replaced the front brake discs and pads (the rear ones are still original). At 60,000 km, the engine valve cover gasket started leaking—a typical problem with boxer engines. We replaced it, and the problem went away. The axle seals are still dry. The suspension is durable, but needs attention on our roads. At 65,000 km, I replaced the front ball joints and front control arm bushings. The struts are still in good condition.
- Tires. Choosing the right ones is crucial. I use all-season tires with a mud/snow tread pattern from a reputable brand. For serious off-roading, it's best to have a second set with an aggressive tread pattern.
- Consumables. The oil in the CVT and all-wheel drive gearboxes must be changed strictly according to the schedule (usually every 60,000 km). Skimping on this is not an option.
- Electronics. The Eyesight systems (adaptive cruise control, emergency braking) work perfectly, but in heavy snow or fog, the cameras can become blocked, and the system temporarily switches off. This is normal.
Who is this car for? Final thoughts
The Subaru Forester is a car for a special kind of person. It's not for those chasing status or luxury. It's for those who value essence, functionality, reliability, and unique technical solutions. For those whose lives aren't limited to the asphalt.
This is the ideal vehicle for travelers, fishermen, hunters, and families who enjoy outdoor activities. It will forgive you for poor roads, get you out of muddy conditions, and take you to the most remote and beautiful places. At the same time, in the city, it will be a comfortable, quiet, and maneuverable (thanks to its tight turning radius) daily transport.
Yes, it doesn't have the most luxurious interior, yes, the CVT requires careful handling, and yes, maintenance is not the cheapest. But the unique combination of qualities the Forester offers—permanent all-wheel drive, a flat-twin engine, phenomenal stability and off-road capability—is unmatched anywhere else in its class. If your heart is in adventure, not showiness, the Forester will be your loyal and reliable companion for years to come. Mine certainly has.