2022 Subaru Forester Touring Review: Quick Take

Recently, we held a massive 2022 AutoGuide Compact SUV Comparison test presented by NRS Brakes. We’re now going to take a closer look at one of the entries in that massive match-up, the 2022 Subaru Forester Touring.

The Forester is firmly entrenched in the status quo. Throughout the vehicle’s 25-year history, the template for Subaru’s compact SUV hasn’t changed much, including the styling. When was the last time a new-generation Forester looked completely, revolutionary different from the vehicle it replaced? The correct answer to that question is never.

While on the topic of comfort, the Forester’s long travel suspension allows it to float over most road imperfections, swallowing up broken pavement that unsettles some other small SUVs. It’s a benefit of Subaru’s symmetrical all-wheel drive set-up that allows each wheel to move further up and down to match the road’s surface. Despite this comfort advantage, the small SUV still offers acceptable handling, about average for the segment.

Of course, we can’t talk about a Subaru without bringing up its poor weather performance. It may have been a beautiful summer day during our evaluations, but the snow is coming. When it does arrive, the Forester will be ready. It’s more than capable enough to handle the worst the season has to offer, thanks in part to a standard 8.7-inches of ground clearance and Subaru’s X-Mode.

On hand for evaluation is a fully loaded Touring trim, or Premier in Canada. It’s well equipped and includes items like DriverFocus, heated rear seats, a heated steering wheel, and a panoramic sunroof. All of the latest safety hardware is present in the Forester, with the majority being part of Subaru’s EyeSight safety system.

The interior design is well thought out, using premium soft touch materials on most surfaces. We appreciate the programable three information screens, even if they are beginning to look a bit dated.

Things are less positive when it comes to the drivetrain. In our comparison, it ranks as the second worst engine/transmission combo. The 2.5-liter four-cylinder Boxer engine makes 182 hp, which is on the lower end of the segment, and only partners up with a continuously variable automatic transmission. Under moderate acceleration, the drivetrain is noisy and lacks the power and refinement of some key competitors like the Nissan Rogue, Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, and Kia Sportage Hybrid.

With an official EPA consumption figure of 29 MPG combined, the Forester is fairly efficient, but can’t match the more powerful Nissan Rogue in terms of outright fuel economy performance. Still, the Forester does have full-time all-wheel drive and is one of the better fuel sippers when it comes to small SUVs powered by naturally aspirated engines.

As it stands, the Forester has a lot going for it and we see why it’s so popular with consumers. But the drivetrain is a bit of a letdown. If Subaru was willing to significantly overhaul the drivetrain with a small, turbocharged engine, or better yet, an advanced hybrid system, it would go a long way in putting the Forester in the same conversation as the class leaders.

In its current configuration, the Forester is a solid mid-pack performer. For the potential customer that’s looking for an easy to maneuver, comfortable, hassle-free compact SUV that excels in poor weather conditions, it’s well worth a look.

FAQs

What is the touring package on a Forester?

The Touring package is the top trim level of the Forester. It includes items like a power passenger front seat, heated rear seats, and Subaru’s DriverFocus system. 

What should I pay for a Subaru Forester Touring?

The 2022 Subaru Forester Touring costs $37,170 USD after destination charges. The Canadian equivalent, the Forester Premier, comes in at $42,395 CAD after destination charges. 

Which is better Subaru Forester Limited or Touring?

In terms of features and content, the Forester Touring is the better vehicle. The Limited though is the more affordable option, so it’s a question of personal value for the money.