2005 Subaru Forester XS from North America - Comments

Nothing so far, but still very new.

I drove everything comparable and researched thoroughly and this vehicle was by far the best choice for me.

I recently moved to Cleveland area and my rear wheel drive Mercedes even with traction, was a bit scary at times last winter on my 25 mile commute. The AWD Subie should be far better. I'm almost looking forward to snow to see how it does.

Mileage so far has been about 30 mpg on the highway, which is mostly what I do. It uses regular fuel which the MB needed premium, as does the Turbo Forester XT.

Handling is excellent for an SUV. No tippy feel at all. I ended up hanging upside down in my overturned Explorer a few years ago (not my fault) and I don't want that to happen again.

Handles and rides almost as well as by MB and the 165 HP is plenty adequate.

Space is very good for a small SUV for both passengers and cargo.

I went with L.L. Bean package to get leather, sunroof (huge) and a couple of other features, but I mostly just liked the look better.

Just to follow-up on this report...

I now have about 6,800 miles on my Forester and it is going very well.

In my first report, I had not driven it in snow yet. That changed last night.

We received about 10 inches of snow yesterday and overnight and the vehicle was terrific. I had about a 25 mile commute on the interstate and fairly hilly back roads and never felt out of control. The only problem was dodging other vehicles that were stuck.