1999 Subaru Forester Limited review from Australia and New Zealand
"European quality at Japanese prices"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Collapsed rear self leveling suspension unit (fixed under warrantee).
General comments?
I commute 120 km per day and this car is very comfortable, reliable and economical.
It handles as though on rails in all conditions & with its dual air bags & ABS, should be very safe in an accident.
Off road the car is also a dream, the independent suspension is far superior on light dirt roads to most traditional 4X4s, but will not handle the more serious stuff as well. The major limitation being entry & exit angles due to the big plastic bumpers (Subaxtreme in QLD do some nice metal ones), a body lift kit would help.
Silly little things: The sun visors are too short, the rear accessories socket needs the key in the ignition to work.
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![]() ![]() | Great all rounder |
![]() ![]() | 1998 - Forester LX 2.5L 4-cylinder Boxer Solid, reliable, functional car with excellent bad-weather traction and all-around handling. |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| First year of ownership | 2001 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2002 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.0 litre petrol Manual |
| Performance marks | 8/10 |
| Reliability marks | 9/10 |
| Comfort marks | 9/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 7/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 8/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 94000 kilometres |
| Most recent distance | 113000 kilometres |
| Previous car | Toyota Camry |
| Date of Entry | 21st January, 2002 |



