2021 Subaru Forester 2.5i Premium: Review & Specs

by Alex Braham 50 views

The 2021 Subaru Forester 2.5i Premium stands out as a versatile and reliable compact SUV, perfectly blending practicality with comfort. For those in the market for a vehicle that offers a smooth ride, ample cargo space, and a suite of safety features, the Forester 2.5i Premium is definitely worth considering. Let’s dive into what makes this model a popular choice among drivers.

Overview of the 2021 Subaru Forester 2.5i Premium

The 2021 Subaru Forester 2.5i Premium builds upon the Forester's reputation for durability and capability. This trim level enhances the base model with a range of additional features focused on convenience and aesthetics. It’s powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers a balance of performance and fuel efficiency, making it suitable for both daily commutes and longer road trips. The symmetrical all-wheel-drive system, standard on all Foresters, provides excellent traction and stability in various driving conditions.

Inside, the 2.5i Premium offers upgraded upholstery, a larger touchscreen infotainment system, and other enhancements that contribute to a more comfortable and connected driving experience. Safety is a key priority, with Subaru's EyeSight Driver Assist Technology included as standard, offering features like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. The combination of these features makes the 2021 Forester 2.5i Premium a well-rounded and appealing option in the crowded compact SUV segment.

Performance and Handling

When it comes to performance, the 2021 Subaru Forester 2.5i Premium offers a dependable and smooth driving experience. The 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine produces 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque, providing sufficient power for most driving situations. While it may not be the quickest SUV in its class, the Forester delivers consistent and predictable acceleration, making it easy to navigate city streets and highways alike. The engine is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which optimizes fuel efficiency and ensures smooth transitions between speeds.

The symmetrical all-wheel-drive system is a standout feature, providing enhanced traction and stability, particularly in adverse weather conditions. Whether you're driving on snow-covered roads or navigating a muddy trail, the Forester inspires confidence with its surefooted handling. The suspension is tuned to provide a comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and road imperfections with ease. Steering is light and responsive, making the Forester easy to maneuver in tight spaces. Overall, the 2021 Subaru Forester 2.5i Premium offers a balanced and capable driving experience that is well-suited for a variety of drivers.

Interior Comfort and Technology

Stepping inside the 2021 Subaru Forester 2.5i Premium, you'll find a cabin designed with comfort and convenience in mind. The Premium trim includes upgraded cloth upholstery that feels soft and durable. The seats are well-cushioned and supportive, making them comfortable for long drives. The driver's seat is power-adjustable, allowing you to find the perfect driving position with ease. The rear seats offer ample legroom and headroom, making the Forester a comfortable choice for passengers of all sizes.

The infotainment system is centered around a larger touchscreen display that is user-friendly and responsive. It includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, allowing you to seamlessly connect your smartphone and access your favorite apps, music, and navigation. The Premium trim also includes a Wi-Fi hotspot, keeping you connected on the go. Other convenient features include keyless entry, push-button start, and a rearview camera. The overall design of the interior is functional and straightforward, with logically placed controls and a focus on practicality.

Safety Features

Safety is a top priority for Subaru, and the 2021 Forester 2.5i Premium comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features. Standard on all Forester models is Subaru's EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, which includes adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. These features work together to help prevent accidents and keep you safe on the road. The adaptive cruise control maintains a set distance from the vehicle ahead, automatically adjusting your speed as needed. The lane departure warning system alerts you if you start to drift out of your lane, while the lane-keeping assist can gently steer you back into your lane.

In addition to EyeSight, the Forester 2.5i Premium includes blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, which helps you detect vehicles in your blind spots and alerts you to approaching traffic when backing out of a parking space. The rearview camera provides a clear view of what's behind you, making it easier to park and maneuver in tight spaces. The Forester also comes with a full complement of airbags, including front, side, and curtain airbags, providing additional protection in the event of a collision. With its advanced safety features and strong crash-test scores, the 2021 Subaru Forester 2.5i Premium offers peace of mind for you and your passengers.

Cargo Space and Versatility

One of the standout features of the 2021 Subaru Forester 2.5i Premium is its impressive cargo space and versatility. With the rear seats up, the Forester offers 31.1 cubic feet of cargo space, which is more than enough for groceries, luggage, or sports equipment. When you need even more space, the rear seats can be easily folded down to create a maximum of 76.1 cubic feet of cargo volume. The wide rear opening and low cargo floor make it easy to load and unload bulky items.

The Forester also includes several features that enhance its versatility. The raised roofline provides ample headroom for passengers and allows you to carry taller items in the cargo area. The available roof rails allow you to attach a roof rack or cargo carrier, providing even more storage options. The Forester is also capable of towing up to 1,500 pounds, making it suitable for hauling a small trailer or boat. Whether you're heading out on a family road trip or just running errands around town, the 2021 Subaru Forester 2.5i Premium offers the space and versatility you need to get the job done.

Fuel Efficiency

Fuel efficiency is an important consideration for many car buyers, and the 2021 Subaru Forester 2.5i Premium delivers respectable gas mileage for its class. The EPA estimates that the Forester achieves 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway, for a combined rating of 29 mpg. These numbers are competitive with other compact SUVs and make the Forester a practical choice for daily commuting and long-distance driving.

Several factors contribute to the Forester's fuel efficiency. The 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine is designed to maximize fuel economy without sacrificing performance. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) helps to keep the engine in its optimal power range, further improving efficiency. The symmetrical all-wheel-drive system is also designed to minimize energy loss, ensuring that power is only sent to the wheels that need it. Overall, the 2021 Subaru Forester 2.5i Premium offers a good balance of performance and fuel efficiency, making it an economical choice for budget-conscious buyers.

Pricing and Value

The 2021 Subaru Forester 2.5i Premium offers excellent value for its price. With a starting MSRP of around $28,000, the Premium trim includes a long list of standard features that are often optional on other SUVs. These features include the EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, a larger touchscreen infotainment system, upgraded upholstery, and alloy wheels. When you factor in the Forester's reliability, safety, and versatility, it's easy to see why it's such a popular choice among car buyers.

In addition to its competitive price, the Forester also holds its value well over time. According to industry experts, the Forester has one of the highest resale values in its class, meaning you'll get more money back when you eventually trade it in or sell it. This makes the Forester a smart investment for the long term. Overall, the 2021 Subaru Forester 2.5i Premium offers a compelling combination of features, performance, and value, making it a top contender in the compact SUV segment.

Pros and Cons

To summarize, here's a quick rundown of the pros and cons of the 2021 Subaru Forester 2.5i Premium:

Pros:

  • Standard all-wheel drive
  • Spacious interior and cargo area
  • Comprehensive suite of safety features
  • User-friendly infotainment system
  • Good fuel economy
  • High resale value

Cons:

  • Engine could use more power
  • CVT transmission can be noisy at times
  • Some may find the styling to be bland

Conclusion

The 2021 Subaru Forester 2.5i Premium is a well-rounded and capable compact SUV that offers a lot to like. With its standard all-wheel drive, spacious interior, and comprehensive suite of safety features, the Forester is a practical and reliable choice for families and individuals alike. While it may not be the most exciting SUV to drive, the Forester delivers a comfortable and confident driving experience that is well-suited for a variety of conditions. If you're in the market for a compact SUV that offers excellent value and peace of mind, the 2021 Subaru Forester 2.5i Premium is definitely worth a look.