2024 Subaru Forester Sport: Review, Price, & Specs

by Alex Braham 51 views

Hey guys! Today, we’re diving deep into the 2024 Subaru Forester Sport. If you’re in the market for a compact SUV that blends rugged capability with sporty aesthetics, the Forester Sport might just be your perfect match. We’ll cover everything from its performance and interior features to its pricing and overall value. So, buckle up and let's get started!

Overview of the 2024 Subaru Forester Sport

The Subaru Forester has always been a reliable and practical choice for those seeking adventure-ready vehicles. The 2024 Forester Sport enhances this reputation with a bolder look and sport-tuned features. It’s designed to appeal to drivers who want a bit more flair without sacrificing the core qualities that make the Forester so popular. Think of it as your trusty hiking boot, but with stylish laces and a cool color scheme. This model year doesn't bring massive changes, focusing instead on refining the existing formula that Forester enthusiasts know and love. It maintains the same engine, safety features, and overall dimensions, ensuring that the essence of the Forester remains intact while adding some visual zest.

Key Features

  • Sport-tuned suspension: Offers a slightly firmer and more controlled ride.
  • Unique exterior trim: Includes black accents, dark gray 18-inch wheels, and orange stitching inside.
  • Water-repellent upholstery: Perfect for those muddy adventures.
  • Standard Subaru EyeSight driver-assist technology: Enhances safety on the road.

Performance and Handling

Let's talk about how the 2024 Subaru Forester Sport performs on the road. Under the hood, you'll find a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque. While this might not sound like a powerhouse, it provides adequate pep for daily driving and weekend getaways. The engine is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which prioritizes fuel efficiency and smooth acceleration. The CVT mimics traditional automatic gear changes, which helps to avoid the droning sensation that some CVTs are known for. Overall, the powertrain is well-suited for the Forester's mission as a versatile and dependable SUV.

Driving Experience

  • On-road: The sport-tuned suspension gives the Forester Sport a more planted feel compared to other trims. Steering is accurate and responsive, making it easy to navigate city streets and winding roads. Body roll is well-controlled, contributing to a confident driving experience. Road noise is present but not intrusive, allowing for comfortable conversations and enjoyable music listening.
  • Off-road: Subaru's symmetrical all-wheel-drive system is standard, providing excellent traction on loose surfaces. The Forester Sport has 8.7 inches of ground clearance, enabling it to tackle moderately challenging trails. X-Mode, a driver-selectable terrain management system, optimizes the AWD system for specific conditions like snow, dirt, or mud. While it's not a rock crawler, the Forester Sport is more than capable of handling unpaved roads and light off-road excursions. With the right tires, you can confidently explore trails and backroads, knowing that the Forester Sport is built to handle diverse terrains. Whether it's navigating a muddy trail or traversing a snowy mountain pass, the Forester Sport offers the capability and confidence to tackle various driving conditions.

Interior and Technology

Stepping inside the 2024 Subaru Forester Sport, you'll find a comfortable and well-equipped cabin designed with practicality in mind. The interior features durable materials and thoughtful touches that enhance the overall experience. Orange stitching accents the seats, dashboard, and door panels, adding a sporty flair to the interior. The water-repellent upholstery is a welcome addition for those who frequently engage in outdoor activities, as it resists stains and is easy to clean. This is especially useful if you often find yourself transporting wet or muddy gear. The seats are supportive and comfortable, even on longer drives, and the driver's seat offers ample adjustability to accommodate various body types.

Infotainment and Connectivity

  • Infotainment System: The Forester Sport comes standard with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The system is responsive and easy to use, with intuitive menus and clear graphics. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration are standard, allowing seamless smartphone connectivity. You can easily access your favorite apps, navigation, and music directly from the touchscreen. Bluetooth connectivity is also included, enabling hands-free calling and audio streaming. The infotainment system supports over-the-air updates, ensuring that it stays current with the latest software and features. Voice recognition is available, allowing you to control certain functions with voice commands, further enhancing convenience and safety.
  • Audio System: A premium Harman Kardon audio system is available as an option, delivering crisp and clear sound quality. The system includes nine speakers and a subwoofer, providing an immersive listening experience. Whether you're listening to music, podcasts, or audiobooks, the Harman Kardon system enhances the enjoyment of your favorite content. The standard audio system is also decent, providing adequate sound quality for everyday use. Overall, the Forester Sport offers a well-rounded infotainment and audio experience that caters to a variety of user preferences.

Interior Comfort and Space

  • Spacious Cabin: The Forester Sport offers ample space for both passengers and cargo. The rear seats provide plenty of legroom and headroom, making it comfortable for adults to sit in the back. The rear seats also recline, allowing passengers to adjust their seating position for added comfort on long trips. The cargo area is generous, with 28.9 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats. With the rear seats folded down, the cargo area expands to 74.2 cubic feet, providing ample room for luggage, gear, and other items. The wide cargo opening and low load floor make it easy to load and unload bulky items. Tie-down hooks are included to secure cargo and prevent it from shifting during transit. Overall, the Forester Sport excels in providing a comfortable and versatile interior space for both passengers and cargo.
  • Other Features: Automatic climate control, keyless entry, and a sunroof are available, adding to the convenience and comfort of the Forester Sport. The automatic climate control system maintains a consistent temperature inside the cabin, regardless of the weather outside. Keyless entry allows you to unlock and start the vehicle without using a key, providing added convenience. The sunroof lets in natural light and fresh air, enhancing the overall driving experience. These features, combined with the Forester Sport's other interior amenities, create a comfortable and enjoyable environment for both drivers and passengers. Features like heated front seats, a power liftgate, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel are also available, depending on the trim level and options package.

Safety Features

Safety is a top priority for Subaru, and the 2024 Forester Sport comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of advanced safety features. Standard on all Forester models is Subaru's EyeSight driver-assist technology, which includes:

  • Automatic Emergency Braking: Helps prevent or mitigate collisions by automatically applying the brakes when a potential collision is detected.
  • Adaptive Cruise Control: Maintains a set distance from the vehicle ahead, automatically adjusting speed to keep pace with traffic.
  • Lane Departure Warning: Alerts the driver if the vehicle begins to drift out of its lane.
  • Lane Keeping Assist: Provides gentle steering inputs to help keep the vehicle centered in its lane.

Additional Safety Technologies

  • Blind-Spot Detection: Monitors the vehicle's blind spots and alerts the driver if a vehicle is detected.
  • Rear Cross-Traffic Alert: Warns the driver of approaching vehicles when backing out of a parking space or driveway.
  • Reverse Automatic Braking: Automatically applies the brakes when a potential collision is detected while reversing.

The Forester has consistently earned top safety ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), reflecting Subaru's commitment to safety. The robust suite of safety features and strong crash test performance make the Forester Sport a safe and reliable choice for families and individuals alike. These advanced safety technologies provide added peace of mind, helping to prevent accidents and protect occupants in the event of a collision. Overall, the Forester Sport's safety features and ratings make it a standout choice in the compact SUV segment.

Pricing and Value

The 2024 Subaru Forester Sport offers a compelling value proposition, balancing a sporty appearance with practical features and a reasonable price point. The starting MSRP for the Forester Sport is around $30,000, which is competitive within the compact SUV segment. While the price may vary depending on options and packages, the Forester Sport typically offers more standard features than its competitors at a similar price point. Considering its standard all-wheel-drive, advanced safety features, and unique styling elements, the Forester Sport represents a strong value for those seeking a well-equipped and capable SUV.

Ownership Costs

  • Fuel Efficiency: The Forester Sport achieves an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway. These figures are respectable for a compact SUV with standard all-wheel-drive. Real-world fuel economy may vary depending on driving conditions and habits, but the Forester Sport generally delivers competitive fuel efficiency compared to its rivals.
  • Maintenance: Subaru vehicles are known for their reliability, and the Forester Sport is no exception. Routine maintenance, such as oil changes and tire rotations, is relatively affordable. Subaru offers a range of extended warranty options for added peace of mind. The Forester Sport's durable construction and proven mechanical components contribute to lower long-term ownership costs.
  • Resale Value: Subaru vehicles typically hold their value well, and the Forester Sport is expected to follow this trend. Strong resale value can offset some of the initial purchase price, making the Forester Sport a smart long-term investment. Factors such as condition, mileage, and maintenance history can affect resale value, but the Forester Sport's reputation for reliability and durability generally contributes to strong resale performance. Overall, the Forester Sport offers a combination of affordable ownership costs and solid resale value, making it a financially sound choice for buyers.

Pros and Cons

To give you a clear picture, let's break down the pros and cons of the 2024 Subaru Forester Sport:

Pros

  • Standard all-wheel drive: Provides excellent traction and stability in all weather conditions.
  • Sport-tuned suspension: Offers a more engaging driving experience compared to other Forester trims.
  • Unique styling: Black accents and orange stitching give the Forester Sport a distinctive look.
  • Spacious interior: Provides ample room for passengers and cargo.
  • Advanced safety features: Subaru EyeSight comes standard, enhancing safety on the road.

Cons

  • Engine power: The 182-horsepower engine may feel underpowered for some drivers.
  • CVT transmission: While smooth, the CVT can sometimes feel unresponsive.
  • Road noise: Road noise can be noticeable at higher speeds.
  • Infotainment system: The infotainment system lacks some of the advanced features found in competitors.

Final Verdict

The 2024 Subaru Forester Sport is a well-rounded compact SUV that offers a blend of practicality, capability, and sporty styling. While it may not be the most powerful or technologically advanced vehicle in its class, it excels in providing a comfortable and safe driving experience. The standard all-wheel-drive, sport-tuned suspension, and unique exterior trim make it a standout choice for those seeking adventure-ready vehicles. If you value reliability, safety, and versatility, the Forester Sport is definitely worth considering. It's a solid choice for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a dependable and capable SUV. With its blend of features, value, and reputation, the 2024 Subaru Forester Sport continues to be a strong contender in the competitive compact SUV market. So, there you have it – everything you need to know about the 2024 Subaru Forester Sport! Happy driving, folks!