2001 Subaru Forester Reviews, Pricing & Specs
Overview
Some restyling to the front and rear ends, including new head and tail lamps and a new chrome grille for the S trim are the most noticeable...
Some restyling to the front and rear ends, including new head and tail lamps and a new chrome grille for the S trim are the most noticeable changes to the 2001 Subaru Forester. The SUV that drives like a car, but has enough cargo space to handle kids, groceries, or home improvement supplies, features full-time AWD and a 2.5-liter boxer H4 engine that hits best-in-class 165-hp with either a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic. The unique design and small size of the H4 means it takes up less room, allowing for greater cabin and storage space.
All models come with ABS brakes, dual front airbags, a hill ascent assist, foglights, roof rack, and a trailer hitch. The base L is well equipped with power features and cruise control and gets the 60/40 split-fold rear seats for 2001. With both seats down, the cargo area expands to 64 cubic feet. The high-end S adds heated seats and mirrors, plus new leather trim for the wheel and shifter and new de-iced front and rear wipers. It also comes standard with a limited slip differential for better AWD performance, though the 2001 Forester's low ground clearance prohibits true off-roading. New on the S this year is a Premium Package that adds gold wheel trim and side impact bags, as well as a brand new sunroof that stretches from the front to back seats and is just under three feet wide.
A lot of drivers like the 2001 Forester because it provides what they're looking for in an SUV, but doesn't feel unwieldy or hard to park. It handles more like the Impreza platform on which it's based, and the ride is smooth and quiet. AWD capability is a big hit in northern climates, and the 20/25 mpg isn't bad for an SUV. There are some major complaints, however, including the cramped backseat and the poor location of the flimsy cupholders in front of the air vents. Owners report numerous visits to the mechanic to address a check engine light which always comes on, problems with the transmission, and sensor failures.
What owners say
"Overall, drivers appreciate the 2001 Subaru Forester for its reliability, all-wheel drive, and impressive cargo space. Many love how it handles in various conditions and enjoy the comfortable ride it provides. However, some noted that its design isn't the most appealing and that it lacks speed, particularly without a turbo. Despite some minor drawbacks, most agree it's a practical and fun car to drive."
Well this use to be my mom' s car so now i ride it harder than she ever did....plus she's an older girl but she keeps up NICELY! I love the clearance the all wheel drive the comfortable room the amazing cargo space the durability of this car and the nice softer purr of the engine and i love the sound system...my sub woofer is right under my seat and it ROCKS!!!!!!!!!!
July 17, 2008Extremely reliable car with enough power to get around. Excellent Build Quality and extremely reliable. Low Cost of ownership relative to other vehicles. Interior colors of Gray and wood tones is not really the best for me. The exterior two-tone is a bit lame but for me, the yakima roof racks add a little more aggressive look. For a car with it's capacity and all-wheel drive. I get around 23 city and 25/26 Highway. The only thing stopping this car to be fun to drive is the fact that the gas pedal is too sensitive and the steering isn't quite sharp enough. It can take turns fine...but it just could use a more solid, directed feel.
April 5, 2012This car can fit a ton in the back end looks good with a roof rack. It isn't that fast but it is an auto with no turbo. Hit a deer with it and nothing mechanical wrong just body work that needed done. All around a good small sport utility vehicle
January 27, 2010What owners say
Well this use to be my mom' s car so now i ride it harder than she ever did....plus she's an older girl but she keeps up NICELY! I love the clearance the all wheel drive the comfortable room the amazing cargo space the durability of this car and the nice softer purr of the engine and i love the sound system...my sub woofer is right under my seat and it ROCKS!!!!!!!!!!
July 17, 2008Extremely reliable car with enough power to get around. Excellent Build Quality and extremely reliable. Low Cost of ownership relative to other vehicles. Interior colors of Gray and wood tones is not really the best for me. The exterior two-tone is a bit lame but for me, the yakima roof racks add a little more aggressive look. For a car with it's capacity and all-wheel drive. I get around 23 city and 25/26 Highway. The only thing stopping this car to be fun to drive is the fact that the gas pedal is too sensitive and the steering isn't quite sharp enough. It can take turns fine...but it just could use a more solid, directed feel.
April 5, 2012This car can fit a ton in the back end looks good with a roof rack. It isn't that fast but it is an auto with no turbo. Hit a deer with it and nothing mechanical wrong just body work that needed done. All around a good small sport utility vehicle
January 27, 2010It has a very nice performance, it's a very easy car to drive. So far, in my eight years with this car, I haven't had any issues with needing repairs or something like that. About the appearance, it's not something I'd buy but it's ok. And of course, any Subaru is fun to drive.
October 8, 2009I bought the Subie in 2006 for my teenage daughter to drive. She just got her license. Easy to handle, side airbags, AWD (we live in NH), easy to see out of (she's 5'2"). Fun to drive. Gotta love the huge sunroof and the frameless doors...
July 24, 2007Use this Subaru to get off the beaten trail every once and a while. With excellent all-weather performance and all-wheel drive this wagon can take you to the hills or rivers and bring you back in comfort. Great for camping and driving on winding roads through rain or snow.
November 23, 2011Its my grandmas, good acceleration and good traction control. it handled well on pavement and gravel roads
March 4, 2008its low, its fast.. not exatly a big saver on gas.. but its a great ride for the expense, cruises nicely on the road and corners real nice, doest give much slip or skid given it some hard runs and holds up great.
August 10, 2009Trims & specs
Base MSRP $20,790 | Seating 5 |
Engine 2.5L 165 hp H4 | Cargo Capacity 32.0 cu ft |
Combined MPG 22 | Drivetrain AWD |
Base MSRP $23,390 | Seating 5 |
Engine 2.5L 165 hp H4 | Cargo Capacity 32.0 cu ft |
Combined MPG 22 | Drivetrain AWD |
