Wow!!! I'm very impressed with this review!! I've yet to see any other review on the Forester that covers technical, underbody, interior, drive characteristics both on & off road, plus hill climb/descent. You really packed in pretty much everything a prospective buyer needs to know about this new car in one video. Well Done!!!!
I love your reviews. As a new 2025 Forester owner, I probably watched every RUclips review---yours is the best! Your technical overview, actual driving, and animated comments is terrific.
You always do a nice job with the reviews Sarah. I appreciate your thorough yet quick delivery. Serious fact-filled presentation flavored with fun. Very nice.
6:31 that's most likely the center airbag that deploys in side collisions. It stops the front occupants from hitting each other. I believe it's mandatory to get a 5 star rating in the Australian NCAP tests, so perhaps Subaru just includes it in all markets for production simplicity
I’m always impressed by your ability to offer an honest assessment of vehicles you have owned or have a preference towards. That creative “de-Explorer” segment… pure Sarah-n-Tuned! 😉 Thank you, Sarah. 👍👍👍
Sarah, I love your car reviews. They're the perfect mix of technical details, driving experience and funny stuff. I love it when the rubber hand flies off the stick. Don't ever change. The penguins have become a part of your reviews too, so keep those guys employed.
In the Great Smoky Mountains this week. I saw tons of Foresters, Crosstreks and Outbacks. The most I’ve seen here. All of exploring we did, they were everywhere. Even saw a Legacy. They were all over.
Thanks Sarah for another great vid! A lovely way to start my day. You could produce a line of inexpensive, just-for-fun aftermarket parts that change the look/design of vehicles. They could also be used to change the look of your vehicle when fleeing the scene of whatever crime you might have committed - like overenthusiastically vigorous shaking of vehicles why communing with penguins! Many, many centre console buckets full of respect from the UK.
Apparently for North America they're also now making the Forester in Indiana like the Crosstrek. I'm not hopeful for an XT comeback, but maybe the hybrid model will up the ante for performance. I don't think I'm ever getting rid of my SJ though ;-)
I think that tweaking of the lowest gear ratio really aided that steep hill-climb test, especially given it’s not even a Wilderness model; excellent review !
Having owned 6 subies, yes the older fun ones, it is amazing to see that regardless of newness, they still make the things the same every model. Even if they made a 'lil Fordester, it is still a Subie. I wish turbos would come back though. Subie was big into turbos when no on else really was. Again, that is why I had the older fun ones. Still rocking an 05 OBT. Thing still takes off like a rocket. Great video Sarah!
5:22 yep and that’s why I never got rid of my OEM rims….. When I first got the car, I took the rims off and cleaned the inner barrels (Sarah cleaning levels here ) and realized who the oe manufacturer was for Subaru….
Sarah, great reviews, I watch your videos and I never comment, but your "fix" for the front of this new Forester looking like an Explorer is perfect. I think looks better when you did that fix. Enjoy how you go in depth in the engine bay and underneath showing future maintenance headaches and possible tight working conditions on all the vehicles you review. This Forester review and also your latest Honda Ridgeline review I have been sharing with friends that are interested in both of these vehicles. They all enjoyed your style and unique way you present the vehicles.
Nice wheels for OEM. The seat cushion airbag prevents the passenger from submarineing under the seatbelt in the event they have the seat reclined too far. It explodes to lift the legs up and lock you into place in the seat. I had it on my Corolla.
It is nice to see they keep making improvements to the CVT. An issue I ran into multiple times in my impreza is it will just completely shut down power in some situations to prevent damaging the transmission so you get some engine RPM but no wheel movement at all. DCTs have the same issue. Its fine on the road and like snow in the walmart parking lot though.
CVT in my 24 Crosstrek Sport (same engine as this) is better than in the 21 Outback XT with the 2.4 turbo. No unpredictable fake shifts that make the car slingshot unpredictably.. Either the CVT is better or it's a better match for the 2.5L torque than the turbo torque.
Just the greatest channel and content creator! And where else can you get themed penguins! 🐧 (not steamed penguins - pay attention 😀) just the greatest 🙂♥️
I'd sit tight & cross your fingers. Wait until the fall elections, and let's see if the American people (voters) learned their lesson over the past four years. If so.... 🤠🤠🤠🤠🤠
@@eskieman3948i don’t see what that has to do with anything. Regardless of what happens, people are not going to buy XT Foresters. They will still sell tons of non-turbo, fuel efficient models because that’s waht people want, unless you think an XT model will sell for $25k 😂
Hey Sarah, excellent job on this one. I know you care about the direction that the car companies are going, but great to see just how much. hopefully Toyota has some influence and Subaru will bring back some of their awesome models. I wouldn’t be surprised and nice job with the shapes fixing the Forrester.🙂🐧🐧🐧👍
You haven’t heard the seatbelt chime in a 2021+ Toyota Venza… you get 3 dings then just a solid high pitched buzz until you put the belt on. I just can’t go back to a regular transmission after driving a Toyota eCVT. There’s something magical about a CVT taking off like a rocket ship.
You know how much I love the off-road reviews❤ - and the Rally Special Stage 2.0 seems like so much fun ❤❤❤❤❤ - and silly penguin antics always puts a big smile on my face😂 - And speaking of faces; your "facelift"-suggestion was a big improvement, hoping someone at Subaru takes note. Thank you for what you do and Stay Awesome! ❤
You are a big reason why I got my 18 FXT, and I am still loving that thing! But without another XT coming, I'm stuck wondering where I'm going next. :/
I find more pleasure in keeping a vehicle in new condition as it ages. My Forester is 10 years old now and it literally still looks brand new in and out. So I say just be OCD about keeping your '18 in perfect condition and save your money! Be sure to do a CVT fluid change every 30k on it, disregard what the dealer may say, it's vital to make that TR690 last. MRT Performance in Australia did a great video on the high torque Subaru CVT on one that they tore apart.
Okay, I’ve always scratched my head about the obsession around the kisluxbag book totes and their practicality, but this one is adorable!! Congratulations
@@SarahnTuned My wife has the 2021 Forester Sport. We wish they would’ve had a XT model too. Hands down that would’ve been the model we would’ve bought. An STI model in world rally blue limited edition would be awesome but not holding my breath on that one.
Best test drive what I have seen about this mode so far! 😍😍 Beautiful exterior and design since it is close to classic Forester design. And of course beautiful girl 😍😍 What I have not see yet is how is acceleration in manual mode.
The adjustable rear seats is the bane of my 2011's existence along with the fridge foam in the rear well. Other than that after 13 years of use its one of the best cars we have owned. Its the 2 ltr diesel with the pox dpf and egr setup other than that mechanically has been great. When Im done with it Sarah Ill sell your the six speed manual for your gump :)
I was impressed on the hill climb. You kinda got stuck on an articulation and it was able to power through. Some Geolander tires and the rally stage would be even better. Subaru still making a fun wagon. When everyone else does useless SUV’s
In the Netherlands we only get 4 models of Subaru: Forester, Outback, Solterra, Crosstrek. And they're crazy expensive too. Fun fact, on the Subaru websites, your fix for the front seems to be already implemented.
So the fake shifting in a CVT has a purpose, I learned. It’s to prevent excessive wear on the CVT cones under full throttle. The fake shift varies the chain’s position on the cones to reduce wear.
If it is properly lubricated that should not be a factor. How about the add in a cvt fluid exchange into the service manual and then have the CVT do what a CVT is supposed to do. Excel at fuel economy.
fake shifting helps nothing at all at any point. the entire point of a cvt is to constantly adjust for optimal performance, the chain changes position every time it adjusts the ratio
@@bradhaines3142 - spoken like a true armchair expert. Did you even READ what I wrote? It doesn’t look like it since your response clearly doesn’t address my point.
@@tobysurmann1936 engineering explained has said before it does effectively nothing, and logic alone would prove youre wrong. the hesitation and jump of a 'shift' would only be worse for something designed to be consistent and smooth.
Love your reviews, always factual and concise with Sarahisms included. Penguins are always a bright spot. The Subie's styling is pretty meh but the real deal killer is the CVT. Lazy engineering whine machine, unfortunately. Fake 'shifts' don't count. I owned a real Forester in the past and loved it.
Sarah, I dunno about the "solution" for modding the front of the Forester (8:00). I honestly didn't think that the Forester grill looked that much like an Explorer, but after your mods (nicely done, BTW!), now, I really think it looks like a Ford Escape. Kudos to you for pointing out the lower "beltline" (increased visibility) on the Forester; that's a common trait on most Subarus, and a prime reason why Mazdas were off my shopping list.
loved the review!! everything seems ok with this Forester except for the Explorer front, and your solution was actually what I would do if I bought one!
The previous generation Forester also had 2 slots for the rear exhaust but to no avail as we never got an XT out of it. Makes you question why? Can't be cheaper to do all that extra to the exhaust ports on the rear bumper cover..🤭
Love your “fix” for the front looking like an Explorer!❤😂😅😊
Explorister 🤣
I thought RUclips censored curse words
That red middle finger 😂
Now it looks like 2017 Peugeot 3008.
At least appropriate music... 🎵"...take it easy."🎵
Wow!!! I'm very impressed with this review!! I've yet to see any other review on the Forester that covers technical, underbody, interior, drive characteristics both on & off road, plus hill climb/descent. You really packed in pretty much everything a prospective buyer needs to know about this new car in one video. Well Done!!!!
This typical Sarah - always technically the best reviewer.
The honesty of your assessment of a vehicle in one of your reviews has always made it fun to guess the scores in your scoreboard segment.
You really have got Top Gear levels of reviewing and thrashing at the same time, impressive!
I love your reviews. As a new 2025 Forester owner, I probably watched every RUclips review---yours is the best! Your technical overview, actual driving, and animated comments is terrific.
I am about to buy one, I assume you recommend?
You always do a nice job with the reviews Sarah. I appreciate your thorough yet quick delivery. Serious fact-filled presentation flavored with fun. Very nice.
You’re the most funnest car person ever. I bet you’d be fun to hang out with lol. GO SUBIE!!!
6:31 that's most likely the center airbag that deploys in side collisions. It stops the front occupants from hitting each other. I believe it's mandatory to get a 5 star rating in the Australian NCAP tests, so perhaps Subaru just includes it in all markets for production simplicity
That makes sense. I wondered if it was designed to squish you up against the roof for total immobilisation.
I’m always impressed by your ability to offer an honest assessment of vehicles you have owned or have a preference towards. That creative “de-Explorer” segment… pure Sarah-n-Tuned! 😉 Thank you, Sarah. 👍👍👍
I think Sarah should make those plates for the front fascia and sell it! 😂😂
Ester
Sarah, I love your car reviews. They're the perfect mix of technical details, driving experience and funny stuff. I love it when the rubber hand flies off the stick. Don't ever change. The penguins have become a part of your reviews too, so keep those guys employed.
The new Subaru Explorester!
BS.
@@eskieman3948 Take it easy Francis!!!!
Thanks!
My favourite Subaru. Love Foresters
In the Great Smoky Mountains this week. I saw tons of Foresters, Crosstreks and Outbacks. The most I’ve seen here. All of exploring we did, they were everywhere. Even saw a Legacy. They were all over.
Best reviews ever! Lots of interesting and quirky facts and details and not just reciting the brochure ...
The subframe is thin in that point because that is a crumple zone to save other more expensive stuff from getting damaged in an accident.
Thanks Sarah for another great vid! A lovely way to start my day. You could produce a line of inexpensive, just-for-fun aftermarket parts that change the look/design of vehicles. They could also be used to change the look of your vehicle when fleeing the scene of whatever crime you might have committed - like overenthusiastically vigorous shaking of vehicles why communing with penguins! Many, many centre console buckets full of respect from the UK.
Your downhill assist is Angel Food cake lol
Apparently for North America they're also now making the Forester in Indiana like the Crosstrek. I'm not hopeful for an XT comeback, but maybe the hybrid model will up the ante for performance. I don't think I'm ever getting rid of my SJ though ;-)
I think that tweaking of the lowest gear ratio really aided that steep hill-climb test, especially given it’s not even a Wilderness model; excellent review !
amazing what that "fix" did to make it look better (this coming from a Explorer and Forester owner
You make a car review a delight to watch with details that we want to hear.
BRAVO!
Having owned 6 subies, yes the older fun ones, it is amazing to see that regardless of newness, they still make the things the same every model. Even if they made a 'lil Fordester, it is still a Subie. I wish turbos would come back though. Subie was big into turbos when no on else really was. Again, that is why I had the older fun ones. Still rocking an 05 OBT. Thing still takes off like a rocket.
Great video Sarah!
I like this new offroad track better than the old one. It looks like you have more room to play
Thanks for the much needed humor today. In addition to being brilliant, you are very funny. Thank you!😊
I clicked so fast that notification the RUclips app froze
Awesome review!! I really appreciate all the detail you put into your videos. Thank You
5:22 yep and that’s why I never got rid of my OEM rims….. When I first got the car, I took the rims off and cleaned the inner barrels (Sarah cleaning levels here ) and realized who the oe manufacturer was for Subaru….
Best car reviewer ever! Thanks Sarah for enduring the 106 temps to bring us this review.
You look amazing today as always!
I collected my new forester earlier this week and can fully endorse everything you say. I did, however, opt for the 18 inch wheels and I'm glad I did
Sarah, great reviews, I watch your videos and I never comment, but your "fix" for the front of this new Forester looking like an Explorer is perfect. I think looks better when you did that fix. Enjoy how you go in depth in the engine bay and underneath showing future maintenance headaches and possible tight working conditions on all the vehicles you review. This Forester review and also your latest Honda Ridgeline review I have been sharing with friends that are interested in both of these vehicles. They all enjoyed your style and unique way you present the vehicles.
Nice wheels for OEM. The seat cushion airbag prevents the passenger from submarineing under the seatbelt in the event they have the seat reclined too far. It explodes to lift the legs up and lock you into place in the seat. I had it on my Corolla.
It is nice to see they keep making improvements to the CVT. An issue I ran into multiple times in my impreza is it will just completely shut down power in some situations to prevent damaging the transmission so you get some engine RPM but no wheel movement at all. DCTs have the same issue. Its fine on the road and like snow in the walmart parking lot though.
CVT in my 24 Crosstrek Sport (same engine as this) is better than in the 21 Outback XT with the 2.4 turbo. No unpredictable fake shifts that make the car slingshot unpredictably.. Either the CVT is better or it's a better match for the 2.5L torque than the turbo torque.
Sarah you do THE besht car reviews ever. I love the detail you go into and the tech shpec's. Awesome work thank you.
Another awesome car review Sarah. I wish they would make a manual version too.👍👍
So far, it is the best review about the new 2025 forester, technical aspects that others don't aim.kudos to you!keep up the great work.
Just the greatest channel and content creator! And where else can you get themed penguins! 🐧 (not steamed penguins - pay attention 😀) just the greatest 🙂♥️
Subaru NEEDS to bring back the XT
I'd sit tight & cross your fingers. Wait until the fall elections, and let's see if the American people (voters) learned their lesson over the past four years. If so.... 🤠🤠🤠🤠🤠
@@eskieman3948i don’t see what that has to do with anything. Regardless of what happens, people are not going to buy XT Foresters. They will still sell tons of non-turbo, fuel efficient models because that’s waht people want, unless you think an XT model will sell for $25k 😂
@@eskieman3948😂 🙏
Hope it's not the 2.4... my outback has been in the shop now 2 months... oil pan leaks... 18k on it... full motor pull to fix...
I'd settle for a hybrid but one that's configured like the Audi not the Honda lol
Great review as always, very thorough and entertaining😊
You're "not a journalist," you are much more informative and entertaining. Thanks for what you do!
Subaru should use your idea of adding body color by the headlights, it looks much better.
Hey Sarah, excellent job on this one. I know you care about the direction that the car companies are going, but great to see just how much. hopefully Toyota has some influence and Subaru will bring back some of their awesome models. I wouldn’t be surprised and nice job with the shapes fixing the Forrester.🙂🐧🐧🐧👍
Sarah, you reviews are top shelf, unique, and on point. Love’m
You got my like when you fixed the Explorester 😂
You haven’t heard the seatbelt chime in a 2021+ Toyota Venza… you get 3 dings then just a solid high pitched buzz until you put the belt on. I just can’t go back to a regular transmission after driving a Toyota eCVT. There’s something magical about a CVT taking off like a rocket ship.
I have a feeling that Subaru may be licensing the Toyota eCVT in a year or two for use in their cars if the Toyota eCVTs hold up over the long run.
Probably the best looking Forester
Love your reviews Sarah! You have a unique and engaging style, that's honest, funny and informative. Great work, as always 👍
Painted in a brown bronze! No need to clean the wheels ever again as it’s the color of brake dust 😃 5:05
You know how much I love the off-road reviews❤ - and the Rally Special Stage 2.0 seems like so much fun ❤❤❤❤❤ - and silly penguin antics always puts a big smile on my face😂 - And speaking of faces; your "facelift"-suggestion was a big improvement, hoping someone at Subaru takes note. Thank you for what you do and Stay Awesome! ❤
You are a big reason why I got my 18 FXT, and I am still loving that thing! But without another XT coming, I'm stuck wondering where I'm going next. :/
I find more pleasure in keeping a vehicle in new condition as it ages. My Forester is 10 years old now and it literally still looks brand new in and out. So I say just be OCD about keeping your '18 in perfect condition and save your money! Be sure to do a CVT fluid change every 30k on it, disregard what the dealer may say, it's vital to make that TR690 last. MRT Performance in Australia did a great video on the high torque Subaru CVT on one that they tore apart.
Factory Enkeis ... just feels right. 🌸
Loving Special Stage 2.0!
No Turbo No Care! Still rocking my '09 XT...
Okay, I’ve always scratched my head about the obsession around the kisluxbag book totes and their practicality, but this one is adorable!! Congratulations
you have one of the best car review channels. your knowledge is impressive. i've always loved the foresters.
Sarah, I 👀 a MUCH larger garage in your near future! Best Channel hands down- Great Vids👏👏👏
Glad you do, I don’t.
@@SarahnTunedStay hopeful for the future…surprises “N” store…😎
@@SarahnTuned My wife has the 2021 Forester Sport. We wish they would’ve had a XT model too. Hands down that would’ve been the model we would’ve bought. An STI model in world rally blue limited edition would be awesome but not holding my breath on that one.
The way you say "Aluminum", so nice, great review!
And "shteel".
Always tough to do an honest review with a model you own. You hit it out of the park. 👍🏻
Best test drive what I have seen about this mode so far! 😍😍 Beautiful exterior and design since it is close to classic Forester design. And of course beautiful girl 😍😍 What I have not see yet is how is acceleration in manual mode.
Sarah, you look awesome today…
Oh, uhm great review
Love your humor and thoroughness!
Hey Sarah! I could care less about most new vehicles but your content is great!
Your fix for the front was just an eye opener! How Subaru didn't see it is a wonder! Great review 😂❤
Just put a deposit down on my Sport today. Coming in about 10 days. Looking forward to it! Thanks for the review.
The adjustable rear seats is the bane of my 2011's existence along with the fridge foam in the rear well. Other than that after 13 years of use its one of the best cars we have owned. Its the 2 ltr diesel with the pox dpf and egr setup other than that mechanically has been great. When Im done with it Sarah Ill sell your the six speed manual for your gump :)
I was impressed on the hill climb. You kinda got stuck on an articulation and it was able to power through. Some Geolander tires and the rally stage would be even better. Subaru still making a fun wagon. When everyone else does useless SUV’s
Solid review. Glad to see penguins are back in vehicle reviews. I always enjoy their input.
Hopefully XT/STI with a manual transmission!
I think the 2025 looks and feels like the 2006-2008 SG version. This is a great thing.
Other then the center touch screen this Forester is really nice.
Great review and lots of fun. As always.
Thank you for speaking up for all of us who want a turbo version of this car.
My 2014 XT is the first vehicle I ever bought that had hood struts included.
Loving the Foghat-Slow Ride
Ahahaha amazing review. Not only funny, but detailed and professional
In the Netherlands we only get 4 models of Subaru: Forester, Outback, Solterra, Crosstrek. And they're crazy expensive too.
Fun fact, on the Subaru websites, your fix for the front seems to be already implemented.
Subaru desperately needs to bring back the XT model. I'd buy one tomorrow, literally.
Nice review once more. Had a little grin hearing you say "asbak" which in Dutch literally means ashtray.
I’m getting pretty good at guessing your scores. Got real close on all of these! Thx for the entertainment!
1:09 “Out back, …” Unintentional pun
I feel that Sarah would make an excellent teacher
So the fake shifting in a CVT has a purpose, I learned.
It’s to prevent excessive wear on the CVT cones under full throttle. The fake shift varies the chain’s position on the cones to reduce wear.
If it is properly lubricated that should not be a factor. How about the add in a cvt fluid exchange into the service manual and then have the CVT do what a CVT is supposed to do. Excel at fuel economy.
that fake shifting is really useful for down hill without using brake
fake shifting helps nothing at all at any point. the entire point of a cvt is to constantly adjust for optimal performance, the chain changes position every time it adjusts the ratio
@@bradhaines3142 - spoken like a true armchair expert.
Did you even READ what I wrote? It doesn’t look like it since your response clearly doesn’t address my point.
@@tobysurmann1936 engineering explained has said before it does effectively nothing, and logic alone would prove youre wrong. the hesitation and jump of a 'shift' would only be worse for something designed to be consistent and smooth.
Nobody gonna talk about that subtle finger message sent to everyone @3:30 ? lol
I like the Shape-A-Gon and “ textrations” commentary!
Oh thank goodness they got rid of the fake shifting. We have a 2012 Impreza CVT and the fake shifting is super exaggerated on it.
I see a lot of videos of forester. I love the way you do! Thanks for this video!
Love your reviews, always factual and concise with Sarahisms included. Penguins are always a bright spot. The Subie's styling is pretty meh but the real deal killer is the CVT. Lazy engineering whine machine, unfortunately. Fake 'shifts' don't count. I owned a real Forester in the past and loved it.
My favorite car review channel reviewing my favorite Subaru model is an automatic watch.
Holding on to my SH. Its paid for and I just put in a low mileage JDM engine.
This has to be the best and funniest car review ever. Assbag. Subscribed
Glad to see the return of the Penguins!!
106° outside temperature, all along I was thinking Sarah was hot, turns out it's just the outside temp! 🤣😂🥰
'Subaru Ford Explorester' 🤣🤣🤣
Also your front end mod is genius! Subaru should hire you!
Sarah, I dunno about the "solution" for modding the front of the Forester (8:00). I honestly didn't think that the Forester grill looked that much like an Explorer, but after your mods (nicely done, BTW!), now, I really think it looks like a Ford Escape. Kudos to you for pointing out the lower "beltline" (increased visibility) on the Forester; that's a common trait on most Subarus, and a prime reason why Mazdas were off my shopping list.
Your driving skills are impressive.
loved the review!! everything seems ok with this Forester except for the Explorer front, and your solution was actually what I would do if I bought one!
A very comprehensive and honest review.
The previous generation Forester also had 2 slots for the rear exhaust but to no avail as we never got an XT out of it. Makes you question why? Can't be cheaper to do all that extra to the exhaust ports on the rear bumper cover..🤭
Very excited to see what the hybrid can do
Add a decent engine option - 200-225 hp and torque - and this car will be a earl winner.
I think in other parts of the world you can get a 1.8T in the Forester. That has the dual exhaust
E.t riding in your backpack so clever, love it! 😂