The Good
The 2016 Forester offers a balanced experience. Practical buyers appreciate its reliability, fuel efficiency, and standard AWD for added security in various weather conditions. Emotional appeal comes from its reputation for safety, longevity, and capability for outdoor adventures. The comfortable ride and spacious interior enhance the overall driving experience. Performance from the XT models offers an additional level of driving enjoyment.
The Bad
Potential weaknesses of the 2016 Forester include the base engine's adequate but not thrilling acceleration. Some owners have reported issues with oil consumption, particularly in earlier model years of this generation. The infotainment system can feel dated compared to competitors. Also, the continuously variable transmission (CVT) can sometimes exhibit droning sounds during acceleration. Check service history for oil consumption fixes.
2016 Subaru Forester: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- 2.5-liter 4-cylinder (2.5i models)
- 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder (2.0XT models)
- Horsepower:
- 2.5-liter: 170 horsepower
- 2.0-liter turbo: 250 horsepower
- Fuel Economy (EPA Estimated):
- 2.5-liter: 24 mpg city / 32 mpg highway
- 2.0-liter turbo: 23 mpg city / 28 mpg highway
- 0-60 Times:
- 2.5-liter: Around 9.0 seconds
- 2.0-liter turbo: Around 6.3 seconds
- Towing Capacity: 1,500 lbs (all models)
- Trim-Level Features:
- 2.5i (Base): Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, rearview camera, Bluetooth connectivity, 6.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system.
- 2.5i Premium: Alloy wheels, panoramic sunroof, reclining rear seats, upgraded audio system, available EyeSight driver-assistance system.
- 2.5i Limited: Leather upholstery, automatic climate control, heated front seats, fog lights, power liftgate, 7-inch touchscreen infotainment.
- 2.5i Touring: Keyless access with push-button start, dual-zone climate control, Harman Kardon audio system, navigation system, upgraded interior trim.
- 2.0XT Premium: Turbocharged engine, sport suspension, 18-inch alloy wheels, X-Mode (off-road traction control).
- 2.0XT Touring: All features of 2.0XT Premium plus keyless access, push-button start, Harman Kardon audio, navigation, and upgraded interior.
2016 Subaru Forester Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2016 |
| Make | Subaru |
| Model | Forester |
| Trim | - |
| Style | 5-Door Wagon |
| Type | Sport Utility Vehicle |
| Category | Standard Sport Utility Vehicle |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Japan |
| Manufacturing City | OTA |
Dimensions
| Doors | 5-Door |
| Curb Weight | 1505.02 kg |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | 173.23 cm |
| Overall Length | 459.49 cm |
| Overall Width | 179.58 cm |
| Wheelbase Length | 263.91 cm |
| Standard Seating | 5 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 2.5-L H-4 SOHC 16V |
| Engine Size | 2.5L |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 |
| Transmission | 6-Speed Manual |
| Transmission Type | Manual |
| Transmission Speeds | 6-Speed |
| Drivetrain | All-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | 4-Wheel ABS |
| Steering Type | Rack & Pinion |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $25,295 USD |
| Invoice Price | $23,848 USD |
| Delivery Charges | $850 USD |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
History Check
Check
Check
Check
Check
Listings
Recalls
Check
Analysis
What Problems Does the 2016 Subaru Forester Have?
How long will the 2016 Subaru Forester last?
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Driver-assistance features, particularly the EyeSight system (available on Premium and higher trims), provide adaptive cruise control, pre-collision braking, lane departure warning, and lane keep assist. Safety is a strong point; the 2016 Forester earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and a 5-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Standard safety features include anti-lock brakes, stability control, and a suite of airbags. Blind-spot detection and rear cross-traffic alert are available on upper trims. While the infotainment system can feel dated compared to newer models, the Forester prioritizes safety and driver assistance, making it a family-friendly choice.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2016 Subaru Forester Prices and Market Value
2016 Subaru Forester Cost of Ownership
2016 Subaru Forester Fuel Efficiency
2016 Subaru Forester Safety Rating
IIHS
2016 Subaru Forester Warranty
Basic
Powertrain
Rust
2016 Subaru Forester Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2016 Subaru Forester Compare to Other Sport Utility Vehicle?
Compared to the Forester, the CR-V and RAV4 might offer slightly better fuel economy (non-turbo models) and a more modern infotainment experience. The CX-5 excels in handling and styling. If AWD is not a priority, the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4 are excellent alternatives, offering similar practicality and strong reliability. For a sportier driving experience, consider the Mazda CX-5. The Subaru Outback, while technically a wagon, offers similar practicality to the Forester with a more refined ride and potentially more features in higher trims, making it a worthwhile alternative for those not strictly needing an SUV body style.
Ranks #389 SUV
| 1 | 2023 Toyota 4Runner | (5.0ā ) |
| 2 | 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid | (5.0ā ) |
| 3 | 2023 Lexus GX | (0.0ā ) |
| 4 | 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV | (0.0ā ) |
| 5 | 2024 Subaru Crosstrek | (5.0ā ) |
| 6 | 2024 BMW iX | (0.0ā ) |
| 7 | 2023 Ford Bronco Sport | (3.0ā ) |
| 8 | 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQB | (0.0ā ) |
| 9 | 2024 Chevrolet Trax | (5.0ā ) |
| 10 | 2023 Audi A4 allroad | (0.0ā ) |
| 11 | 2023 Hyundai Kona N | (0.0ā ) |
| 12 | 2023 Nissan ARIYA | (5.0ā ) |
| 389 | 2016 Subaru Forester | (5.0ā ) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2016 Subaru Forester a Good Sport Utility Vehicle?
Charlie on July 14, 2023
service departmentsThe car is great, my 3rd forester and each one is an improvement, but for repairs you need to go to a dealership and there lies the problem. With an emphasis on lies.
Kathy on October 21, 2022
Waste of money.Rides rough. Visibility to rear and sides poor. Constant repairs, expensive. Currently 2 months without it. It's sitting at the dealership waiting on a steering rack. Rear brakes replaced twice. This car less than 60k miles.
KK on June 17, 2022
Better choices out there.I had the top of the line touring model. Engine still burns oil. Not able to go 5,000 miles between oil changes without oil light on dash coming on. Worse car for heat in the winter, very very very weak, and I changed the coolant and thermostat at the dealership and it still did not help. The AC is weak too on very warm days, hot days just open your windows instead. Front collision detection system, will brake car automatically but not good when you have someone close behind you. The front eyesite monitoring system does not work at all in acclimate weather.
Sabrina on February 3, 2021
In love with this vehicleI've never owned a Subaru before but after purchasing the Forester, I may never own anything but a Subaru again! I love the Eyesight Drivers Assistant that it came equipped with. I can see why this car has one of the best safety ratings out there. The interior is very open, spacious, & comfortable and the panoramic sunroof is amazing! It drives and handles like a dream. I would recommend this car to anyone. You won't be disappointed!
Karen MSW on November 23, 2020
Good for tall people and those with mobility issueI was impressed how well I can see out of the car at all angles. It is difficult for me to turn my body due to neck, hip and back problems. I am 5'10" and have very long legs. This car also has alot of head and leg room. My daughter rides comfortably in her booster seat in the middle seat. I feel I have more control and better handling with this car then any other. I have had a Honda Accord, Volvo XC90, Toyota Corolla and Cadillac Deville in recent years. My only complaint is the front seats are uncomfortable. (My other car is a Deville which feels like a recliner.) There isn't anything fancy about the car but I just have the base model. I am happy with all the features and the gas mileage is awesome. There is a ton on truck space.
JerseyJen on October 10, 2020
Great SUV, lacks storage.It drives like a dream. I enjoy driving it and so does my husband. The visibility is awesome. It sticks to the ground and takes corners and curves well. It is comfortable and we have driven on several long trips with it. The drawback is storage. We had three people on one trip and with 3 suitcases, a cooler, and the sundry items you pick up, there was barely room for a passenger in the back. The ride was great even through some awful weather. Daily drive is great and I consistently get better gas mileage than on the sticker, unless my husband drives then it is worse. Lol.
OldSchool on September 23, 2020
This 2016 Forester replace my 2003 Forester.This 2016 Premium model has some wonderful upgrades but I wish that I could read the screen when the full sun obscures it. I really liked the more boxy design of my 2002 Premium, but I guess everything has to change.
Seminole forever on September 10, 2020
Lots of power, smooth ride, great handlingThis car is sper smooth beacuse of the AWD. The ride smoothness is waht led me to buy it. Great handling in all kinds of terrain. Comfortable on long rides. very reliable.
Gametestes on September 3, 2020
Very stylish while being a utility vehicleIt was a very practical vehicle and was one of the most fuel efficient cars I have ever owned and also one of the smoothest riding vehicles as well.
Archer A on August 29, 2020
2016 Forester PremiumIt handles very easy. Better be careful with the gas pedal; though it only has, if Iām not mistaken, 186hp it accelerates very smoothly and next thing you know you are going 120+ mph. It happened to me the first time I drove it long distance. My oldest grandson likes the fact that it has plenty of leg room both front and back. His brother likes that the back seats very comfortable and he cannot feel the speed as you could in other models.
Simon A
Simon is a contributor to VinCheck, where he provides articles and reviews on various automotive topics. His work focuses on delivering accurate and up-to-date information about used cars, helping readers make informed decisions.