2023 Subaru Forester Premium: Review, Specs, And More

Nov 17, 2025 by Alex Braham 54 views

Hey guys! Thinking about snagging a 2023 Subaru Forester Premium? You've come to the right place! We're diving deep into everything you need to know about this awesome SUV. From its sleek design and comfy interior to its impressive safety features and performance, we'll cover it all. So, buckle up and let's get started!

Overview of the 2023 Subaru Forester Premium

The 2023 Subaru Forester Premium is a standout in the compact SUV class, offering a compelling blend of practicality, safety, and value. It's designed for those who need a reliable vehicle that can handle daily commutes and weekend adventures. This trim level builds upon the base Forester with added features that enhance comfort, convenience, and style. The Forester Premium distinguishes itself with its commitment to safety, equipped with Subaru's EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, which includes automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. These features provide peace of mind for drivers and passengers alike, making it an ideal choice for families and safety-conscious individuals. Beyond safety, the Forester Premium boasts a spacious interior with comfortable seating for five adults and ample cargo space for luggage, groceries, or outdoor gear. The raised ride height and standard all-wheel drive (AWD) system make it capable in various weather conditions and terrains, adding to its versatility. Moreover, the Premium trim offers a range of upgrades over the base model, such as a panoramic sunroof, heated front seats, and a power-adjustable driver's seat, enhancing the overall driving experience. With its combination of practicality, safety, and comfort, the 2023 Subaru Forester Premium is a well-rounded SUV that caters to a wide range of drivers. This model year continues the Forester's legacy of reliability and durability, with Subaru maintaining its reputation for producing vehicles that can withstand the test of time. The exterior design is both modern and functional, with a rugged aesthetic that appeals to those who enjoy outdoor activities. Inside, the cabin is thoughtfully designed with intuitive controls and high-quality materials, creating a comfortable and inviting atmosphere. The 2023 Forester Premium also offers a range of technology features, including a user-friendly infotainment system with smartphone integration, ensuring that drivers stay connected and entertained on the road. All in all, the 2023 Subaru Forester Premium is a compelling choice for anyone seeking a versatile, safe, and reliable compact SUV.

Key Features and Specs

Let's break down the key features and specs that make the 2023 Subaru Forester Premium a fantastic choice. The heart of the Forester Premium is its 2.5-liter four-cylinder BOXER engine, delivering 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque. This engine provides a good balance of power and efficiency, making it suitable for both city driving and highway cruising. Paired with a Lineartronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) and Subaru's renowned symmetrical all-wheel drive, the Forester Premium offers confident handling and traction in various driving conditions. The symmetrical all-wheel drive system continuously monitors traction at all four wheels and adjusts power accordingly, ensuring optimal grip on slippery or uneven surfaces. This is particularly beneficial for drivers who live in areas with inclement weather or frequently travel on unpaved roads. The Lineartronic CVT provides smooth and seamless acceleration, contributing to a comfortable and refined driving experience. Fuel efficiency is also a strong point, with the Forester Premium achieving an EPA-estimated 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway. This makes it an economical choice for daily commuting and long road trips. Inside, the Forester Premium boasts a spacious and well-appointed cabin. The seats are comfortable and supportive, providing ample room for five adults. The rear seats can be folded down to expand the cargo area, offering up to 76.1 cubic feet of storage space. Standard features include heated front seats, a 10-way power-adjustable driver's seat, and a panoramic sunroof, adding to the comfort and convenience of the vehicle. The infotainment system features an 8-inch touchscreen display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, allowing seamless integration with smartphones. Other notable features include a rearview camera, automatic climate control, and a suite of advanced safety technologies, such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. These safety features are designed to help prevent accidents and protect occupants in the event of a collision. Overall, the 2023 Subaru Forester Premium offers a well-rounded package of features and specifications that make it a competitive choice in the compact SUV segment.

Interior and Exterior Design

The interior and exterior design of the 2023 Subaru Forester Premium strikes a balance between functionality and style. On the outside, the Forester Premium boasts a rugged yet refined appearance, with clean lines and a bold front fascia. The higher ground clearance and prominent wheel arches give it a capable and adventurous look, while the sleek headlights and taillights add a touch of modernity. The panoramic sunroof, standard on the Premium trim, enhances the overall aesthetic and allows natural light to flood the cabin. The exterior design is not just about looks; it also serves a functional purpose. The aerodynamic shape helps improve fuel efficiency, while the strategically placed body cladding protects the vehicle from scratches and dents. The roof rails provide additional cargo-carrying capacity, making it easy to transport bikes, kayaks, or other outdoor gear. Moving inside, the cabin of the Forester Premium is designed with comfort and practicality in mind. The seats are upholstered in durable and comfortable cloth material, providing ample support for long journeys. The dashboard layout is clean and intuitive, with all controls within easy reach of the driver. The 8-inch touchscreen display is seamlessly integrated into the dashboard, providing access to navigation, entertainment, and vehicle settings. The panoramic sunroof creates an open and airy feel, making the cabin feel more spacious and inviting. The rear seats offer plenty of legroom and headroom, ensuring that passengers are comfortable on long trips. The cargo area is also generously sized, with a wide opening and low load floor for easy loading and unloading. The rear seats can be folded down in a 60/40 split, allowing for flexible cargo configurations. Overall, the interior and exterior design of the 2023 Subaru Forester Premium is well-executed, combining style, functionality, and comfort in a cohesive package. Whether you're commuting to work or embarking on a weekend adventure, the Forester Premium provides a pleasant and practical environment for both driver and passengers. The attention to detail and quality materials used throughout the cabin contribute to a sense of refinement and durability, making it a standout in its class.

Technology and Safety Features

When it comes to technology and safety features, the 2023 Subaru Forester Premium truly shines. Subaru has always prioritized safety, and the Forester Premium is no exception. It comes standard with the EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, a suite of advanced safety features that help prevent accidents and protect occupants. EyeSight includes adaptive cruise control, which automatically adjusts the vehicle's speed to maintain a safe following distance from the vehicle ahead. It also includes automatic emergency braking, which can detect potential collisions and apply the brakes if the driver fails to react in time. Lane departure warning and lane keeping assist help keep the vehicle centered in its lane, while blind-spot detection and rear cross-traffic alert provide added awareness of the vehicle's surroundings. In addition to EyeSight, the Forester Premium also comes standard with a rearview camera, which makes it easier to park and maneuver in tight spaces. The STARLINK Safety and Security system provides access to emergency services, roadside assistance, and stolen vehicle recovery. On the technology front, the Forester Premium features an 8-inch touchscreen display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. This allows seamless integration with smartphones, making it easy to access navigation, music, and other apps. The infotainment system is user-friendly and responsive, with intuitive menus and clear graphics. A Wi-Fi hotspot is also available, allowing passengers to stay connected on the go. Other notable technology features include keyless entry, push-button start, and automatic climate control. These features add convenience and comfort to the driving experience. Overall, the 2023 Subaru Forester Premium offers a comprehensive suite of technology and safety features that make it a standout in its class. Whether you're commuting to work or embarking on a long road trip, the Forester Premium provides peace of mind and a connected driving experience. The combination of advanced safety technologies and user-friendly infotainment features makes it a compelling choice for safety-conscious and tech-savvy drivers.

Performance and Handling

The performance and handling of the 2023 Subaru Forester Premium are designed to provide a comfortable and confident driving experience in a variety of conditions. The heart of the Forester Premium is its 2.5-liter four-cylinder BOXER engine, which delivers 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque. While not the most powerful engine in its class, it provides adequate acceleration and responsiveness for daily driving. The BOXER engine is known for its smooth and balanced operation, contributing to a refined driving experience. Paired with a Lineartronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) and Subaru's symmetrical all-wheel drive, the Forester Premium offers confident handling and traction in various driving conditions. The CVT provides smooth and seamless acceleration, eliminating the traditional gear shifts of a conventional automatic transmission. This contributes to a more fuel-efficient and comfortable driving experience. The symmetrical all-wheel drive system continuously monitors traction at all four wheels and adjusts power accordingly, ensuring optimal grip on slippery or uneven surfaces. This is particularly beneficial for drivers who live in areas with inclement weather or frequently travel on unpaved roads. The Forester Premium also features X-Mode, a selectable drive mode that optimizes the all-wheel drive system for maximum traction in challenging conditions, such as snow, mud, or steep inclines. The suspension is tuned for comfort, providing a smooth and compliant ride on both city streets and highways. The steering is light and responsive, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces. While not a sports car, the Forester Premium handles corners with confidence and stability. Overall, the 2023 Subaru Forester Premium offers a well-balanced combination of performance and handling. It's not the fastest or most sporty SUV in its class, but it provides a comfortable, confident, and capable driving experience in a variety of conditions. The combination of the BOXER engine, CVT, and symmetrical all-wheel drive makes it a reliable and versatile choice for daily commuting and weekend adventures.

Price and Value

When assessing the price and value of the 2023 Subaru Forester Premium, it's essential to consider what it offers compared to its competitors. The Forester Premium typically falls within a competitive price range for the compact SUV segment, offering a compelling package of features and capabilities for the money. One of the key aspects that contribute to the Forester Premium's value is its standard all-wheel drive system. Many competitors offer all-wheel drive as an optional extra, which can significantly increase the price. With the Forester Premium, all-wheel drive comes standard, providing added confidence and capability in various driving conditions. In addition to all-wheel drive, the Forester Premium also comes standard with a suite of advanced safety features, including the EyeSight Driver Assist Technology. These safety features are designed to help prevent accidents and protect occupants, adding to the overall value of the vehicle. The spacious interior and comfortable seating are also noteworthy. The Forester Premium offers ample room for five adults, with plenty of legroom and headroom in both the front and rear seats. The cargo area is also generously sized, making it easy to transport luggage, groceries, or other gear. The fuel efficiency of the Forester Premium is also competitive, with an EPA-estimated 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway. This makes it an economical choice for daily commuting and long road trips. Furthermore, Subaru has a strong reputation for reliability and durability, which can translate to lower maintenance costs over the long term. The Forester Premium is built to last, with a robust construction and high-quality materials. Overall, the 2023 Subaru Forester Premium offers excellent value for the money. It provides a compelling combination of features, capabilities, and reliability at a competitive price point. Whether you're looking for a safe, comfortable, and capable SUV for daily commuting or weekend adventures, the Forester Premium is definitely worth considering.

Pros and Cons

Let's weigh the pros and cons of the 2023 Subaru Forester Premium to give you a balanced view.

Pros:

Standard All-Wheel Drive: Provides excellent traction and stability in various weather conditions.
EyeSight Driver Assist Technology: Enhances safety with features like adaptive cruise control and automatic emergency braking.
Spacious Interior: Offers ample room for passengers and cargo.
Comfortable Ride: Provides a smooth and compliant ride on both city streets and highways.
User-Friendly Technology: Features an 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.
Strong Resale Value: Subaru vehicles typically hold their value well over time.

Cons:

Engine Performance: The 2.5-liter engine may feel underpowered for some drivers.
CVT Transmission: Some drivers may not prefer the feel of a continuously variable transmission.
Exterior Styling: The exterior design may not appeal to everyone.
Infotainment System: While user-friendly, the infotainment system may lack some advanced features found in competitors.

Final Verdict

So, what's the final verdict on the 2023 Subaru Forester Premium? Overall, it's a fantastic choice for anyone seeking a reliable, safe, and practical compact SUV. Its standard all-wheel drive and advanced safety features make it a standout in its class, while its spacious interior and comfortable ride make it a joy to drive. While the engine performance may not be the most thrilling, it's adequate for daily driving and provides good fuel efficiency. The CVT transmission may take some getting used to, but it contributes to a smooth and seamless driving experience. The exterior styling is a matter of personal preference, but the Forester Premium's rugged yet refined appearance is sure to appeal to many. If you prioritize safety, reliability, and practicality, the 2023 Subaru Forester Premium is definitely worth considering. It offers a compelling package of features and capabilities at a competitive price point, making it a smart choice for families, adventurers, and anyone in between. Just remember to take it for a test drive and see if it's the right fit for your needs!