Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the 2021 Subaru Forester 2.5i Premium. This compact SUV has been a favorite for many, and for good reason. It blends practicality, safety, and Subaru's renowned reliability into a package that’s hard to ignore. Whether you're a seasoned Subaru enthusiast or just starting your car-buying journey, this review will give you all the juicy details you need to know.

What Makes the 2021 Subaru Forester 2.5i Premium Stand Out?

First off, let’s talk about what makes the 2021 Subaru Forester 2.5i Premium special. The Forester has always been about offering a reliable and safe ride, and the 2021 model year is no exception. The "Premium" trim level adds a touch of extra comfort and convenience features that elevate the overall driving experience without breaking the bank. Think of it as the sweet spot in the Forester lineup – you get a lot of bang for your buck.

Standard Features Worth Mentioning:

• Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive: It wouldn't be a Subaru without it! This system provides excellent traction and stability in various weather conditions, making it a confidence-inspiring choice for those living in areas with snow or rain.
• EyeSight Driver Assist Technology: Subaru's suite of safety features, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking, comes standard. This gives you an extra set of eyes on the road and can help prevent accidents.
• Spacious Interior: The Forester is known for its roomy cabin, offering ample space for both passengers and cargo. This makes it a great choice for families or anyone who needs to haul gear.
• User-Friendly Infotainment System: The Premium trim includes an upgraded infotainment system with a larger touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto compatibility. This makes it easy to stay connected on the go.

The 2021 Subaru Forester 2.5i Premium isn't just about practicality; it's also about the peace of mind that comes with owning a Subaru. The brand has a strong reputation for reliability, and the Forester is consistently ranked among the safest vehicles on the road. With its blend of features, safety, and value, it's easy to see why the 2021 Subaru Forester 2.5i Premium is such a popular choice.

Performance and Handling: How Does It Drive?

Let's get down to the nitty-gritty of how the 2021 Subaru Forester 2.5i Premium actually 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 ton of power, it's more than adequate for daily driving and provides decent acceleration. The engine is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which prioritizes fuel efficiency. The CVT can sometimes feel a bit sluggish during hard acceleration, but it generally provides smooth and seamless shifts.

On the Road:

The 2021 Subaru Forester 2.5i Premium shines when it comes to handling. Subaru's symmetrical all-wheel-drive system provides excellent grip and stability, making it feel confident and sure-footed on various road surfaces. The steering is precise and responsive, allowing you to easily navigate tight corners and winding roads. The suspension is well-tuned, providing a comfortable ride that absorbs bumps and imperfections in the road. The Forester isn't designed to be a sports car, but it offers a pleasant and engaging driving experience.

Off-Road Capability:

While the Forester is primarily a road-focused vehicle, it does offer some off-road capability. The standard all-wheel-drive system and generous ground clearance allow it to tackle light trails and unpaved roads with ease. The X-Mode system, which is included on the Premium trim, optimizes the all-wheel-drive system for slippery conditions, providing even more traction. Don't expect to go rock crawling in the Forester, but it's capable enough for weekend adventures and exploring the great outdoors.

The performance of the 2021 Subaru Forester 2.5i Premium is adequate for most drivers, and its handling is a strong point. The all-wheel-drive system provides excellent grip and stability, making it a confident and capable vehicle in various conditions. While the engine might not be the most powerful, it's fuel-efficient and provides enough power for daily driving. If you're looking for a practical and capable SUV that's fun to drive, the Forester is definitely worth considering.

Interior Comfort and Technology: What's It Like Inside?

Stepping inside the 2021 Subaru Forester 2.5i Premium, you'll immediately notice the spacious and well-designed interior. Subaru has prioritized practicality and comfort, creating a cabin that's both functional and inviting. The materials used are of good quality, and the overall fit and finish are impressive. The seats are comfortable and supportive, making them ideal for long road trips. The Premium trim adds some nice touches, such as premium cloth upholstery and a leather-wrapped steering wheel.

Infotainment and Technology:

The 2021 Subaru Forester 2.5i Premium comes standard with a user-friendly infotainment system. The centerpiece is an 8-inch touchscreen display that's easy to navigate and responsive to touch. The system includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone. Other standard features include Bluetooth connectivity, a USB port, and a rearview camera. The Premium trim also adds a six-speaker audio system, which provides decent sound quality.

Comfort and Convenience:

The 2021 Subaru Forester 2.5i Premium is packed with comfort and convenience features that make daily driving a breeze. Standard features include automatic climate control, power windows and locks, and keyless entry. The Premium trim adds heated front seats, a power-adjustable driver's seat, and a panoramic sunroof. The sunroof is a particularly nice touch, as it lets in plenty of natural light and makes the cabin feel even more spacious.

Cargo Space:

One of the 2021 Subaru Forester 2.5i Premium's strongest points is its generous cargo space. With the rear seats up, you get over 31 cubic feet of cargo volume. Fold the rear seats down, and that number jumps to over 76 cubic feet. This is more than enough space for luggage, groceries, or sports equipment. The Forester also has a wide and flat cargo floor, making it easy to load and unload items.

The interior of the 2021 Subaru Forester 2.5i Premium is a comfortable and functional space that's perfect for daily driving and long road trips. The infotainment system is user-friendly, and the comfort and convenience features are plentiful. The cargo space is also impressive, making it a great choice for anyone who needs to haul gear.

Safety Features: Protecting You and Your Passengers

Safety is a top priority for Subaru, and the 2021 Subaru Forester 2.5i Premium is loaded with features to protect you and your passengers. The Forester has consistently earned top safety ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). This is due in part to its robust structure and comprehensive suite of safety features.

EyeSight Driver Assist Technology:

The 2021 Subaru Forester 2.5i Premium comes standard with Subaru's EyeSight Driver Assist Technology. This suite of safety features includes:

• Adaptive Cruise Control: Maintains a set distance from the vehicle in front of you, automatically adjusting your speed as needed.
• Lane Departure Warning: Alerts you if you start to drift out of your lane.
• Lane Keep Assist: Gently steers you back into your lane if you start to drift.
• Automatic Emergency Braking: Can automatically apply the brakes if it detects an imminent collision.

These features work together to provide an extra layer of safety and can help prevent accidents. The EyeSight system is highly regarded for its effectiveness and reliability.

Additional Safety Features:

In addition to EyeSight, the 2021 Subaru Forester 2.5i Premium comes with a variety of other safety features, including:

• Blind-Spot Detection with Lane Change Assist: Alerts you if there's a vehicle in your blind spot.
• Rear Cross-Traffic Alert: Warns you of approaching vehicles when you're backing up.
• Reverse Automatic Braking: Can automatically apply the brakes if it detects an obstacle behind you.
• High Beam Assist: Automatically switches between high and low beams as needed.

The 2021 Subaru Forester 2.5i Premium is a safe and reliable vehicle that's packed with features to protect you and your passengers. The EyeSight Driver Assist Technology is a standout feature, and the additional safety features provide even more peace of mind. If safety is a top priority for you, the Forester is an excellent choice.

Fuel Efficiency: Saving You Money at the Pump

Fuel efficiency is an important consideration for many car buyers, and the 2021 Subaru Forester 2.5i Premium delivers respectable fuel economy. The EPA estimates the Forester at 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway. These numbers are competitive for the compact SUV class and can help you save money at the pump.

Real-World Fuel Economy:

While the EPA estimates provide a good baseline, real-world fuel economy can vary depending on driving conditions and habits. In general, you can expect to get fuel economy that's close to the EPA estimates. However, aggressive driving or frequent use of the all-wheel-drive system can reduce fuel economy.

Factors Affecting Fuel Economy:

Several factors can affect the fuel economy of the 2021 Subaru Forester 2.5i Premium, including:

• Driving Style: Aggressive driving habits, such as hard acceleration and braking, can significantly reduce fuel economy.
• Road Conditions: Driving in stop-and-go traffic or on hilly terrain can also reduce fuel economy.
• Weather Conditions: Cold weather can reduce fuel economy, as the engine takes longer to warm up.
• Vehicle Load: Carrying heavy loads can also reduce fuel economy.

To maximize fuel economy, it's important to drive conservatively, maintain your vehicle properly, and avoid carrying unnecessary weight. The 2021 Subaru Forester 2.5i Premium offers good fuel economy for its class, making it a practical and economical choice for daily driving.

Pricing and Value: Is It Worth the Investment?

The 2021 Subaru Forester 2.5i Premium offers excellent value for the money. With a starting price of around $28,000, it's competitively priced compared to other compact SUVs in its class. The Premium trim adds a number of desirable features, such as heated front seats, a power-adjustable driver's seat, and a panoramic sunroof, without significantly increasing the price.

Standard Features for the Price:

For the price, the 2021 Subaru Forester 2.5i Premium comes standard with a generous list of features, including:

• Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive
• EyeSight Driver Assist Technology
• 8-inch Touchscreen Display
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto Compatibility
• Heated Front Seats
• Panoramic Sunroof

These features make the Forester a well-equipped and comfortable vehicle that's suitable for a variety of needs.

Long-Term Value:

In addition to its competitive price, the 2021 Subaru Forester 2.5i Premium offers excellent long-term value. Subaru vehicles are known for their reliability and durability, and the Forester is no exception. The Forester also holds its value well over time, making it a good investment.

Overall Value:

The 2021 Subaru Forester 2.5i Premium is an excellent value for the money. It offers a combination of practicality, safety, and features that's hard to beat. If you're looking for a compact SUV that's reliable, safe, and well-equipped, the Forester is definitely worth considering.

Final Thoughts: Is the 2021 Subaru Forester 2.5i Premium Right for You?

So, is the 2021 Subaru Forester 2.5i Premium the right car for you? Well, it really depends on your individual needs and preferences. But let's recap what makes this vehicle a strong contender in the compact SUV market.

• Safety: The Forester boasts top-notch safety ratings and comes standard with Subaru's EyeSight Driver Assist Technology.
• Reliability: Subaru has a strong reputation for reliability, and the Forester is known for its durability.
• Practicality: The Forester offers a spacious interior, generous cargo space, and standard all-wheel drive, making it a practical choice for families and outdoor enthusiasts.
• Value: The Forester is competitively priced and offers excellent long-term value.

If you value safety, reliability, practicality, and value, the 2021 Subaru Forester 2.5i Premium is definitely worth a look. However, if you're looking for a more sporty or luxurious SUV, you might want to consider other options.

Ultimately, the best way to decide if the Forester is right for you is to take it for a test drive. Get behind the wheel, experience the handling, and see if the interior and features meet your needs. With its blend of practicality, safety, and value, the 2021 Subaru Forester 2.5i Premium is a solid choice in the crowded compact SUV market.

Happy car hunting, guys! And remember, do your research and choose the vehicle that's the best fit for you!