2014 Subaru Forester Pros and Cons: What To Know When Weighing Your Decision
We break down the 2014 Subaru Forester pros and cons: what we love and what we're underwhelmed by when it comes to this beloved Subaru model.
The 2014 Subaru Forester is a well-known compact SUV, and that vehicle class has exploded recently primarily due to the unique blend of versatility, comfort, and efficiency. With the Forester being popular for its all-wheel drive and versatile design, it’s become a favorite among all types of drivers, from those who love outdoor adventures to families looking for a reliable car. But, like any car, the Forester has its ups and downs, which is why we’ve created this list of the 2014 Subaru Forester pros and cons.
We’re going to dig into what makes the 2014 Subaru Forester stand out from the pack, but we’re not going to just paint you a rosy picture of a great SUV, we’re going to look at the other side of the coin too. In our collection of 2014 Subaru Forester pros and cons, we won’t shy away from the problems, downsides, and shortcomings. In the end, you should have a clearer picture of whether or not the Subaru Forester is a fit for your needs.
What We Love: 2014 Subaru Forester Pros
While we’re going to cover the good as well as the bad in our list, we always prefer to start on a positive note. Here’s a rundown of the upsides of the 2014 Forester.
Pro: AWD Capability
One of the big draws to the 2014 Subaru Forester is the all-wheel drive that came standard, which helped provide better traction and stability in adverse conditions or challenging terrain. The AWD system boosts safety and confidence in handling, making it a solid option for anyone living in a place that gets frequent rain or snow.
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Pro: Roomy and Comfortable Interior
Another massive win for the 2014 Subaru Forester is how roomy and comfortable the interior of the cabin is. For a compact SUV, the interior is actually quite surprising, and it provides plenty of legroom and headroom for both front and rear occupants. The seats are far more comfortable than many competitors, especially on long drives.
On top of that, there’s plenty of space in the cargo area, making it great for active families who need to move supplies and gear from one place to another.
Pro: Impressive Safety Ratings
Safety is yet another big ‘pro’ for the 2014 Subaru Forester. It has scored incredibly well on various crash tests and has received a 5-star safety rating from the NHTSA. On par with other vehicles in its class, it also comes with a list of advanced safety features and is designed from the ground up to protect those inside. The combination of safety and reliability makes it a trustworthy candidate.
Good Fuel Economy
It’s relatively uncommon to find an AWD SUV that still offers reasonable fuel economy, but the 2014 Subaru Forester gets up to 31 MPG. This is surprisingly good mileage for a mid-twenty-teens SUV and makes it a great option for anyone who needs to do a lot of commuting, general daily driving, or long trips.
Pro: Solid Resale Value
Many people don’t realize it, but Subaru tends to hold its value considerably over time. This includes the 2014 Forester, which could be a smart investment, as it tends to have a higher resale value compared to other SUVs in its class, making it an economically wise choice for budget-conscious buyers.
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What We Don’t Like: 2014 Subaru Forester Cons
Well, we knew it was coming. No list of 2014 Subaru Forester pros and cons would be complete if we didn’t dig into a bit of the trouble, or at least the compiled complaints, of those who’ve already owned it.
Con: Engine Performance
Countless drivers have found the 2014 Subaru Forester base engine to be relatively underwhelming, particularly when it comes to quick acceleration or passing on the highway. It’s certainly adequate enough for a daily driver, but if you enjoy a more spirited or sporty driving experience, you’re probably going to be a little disappointed.
Con: Quality of Cabin Materials
Even though the interior is spacious, it’s also been the target of some criticism for using a large amount of hard plastics and other cheap materials in the lower trim tiers. While nothing here will physically affect your driving experience, the use of less-premium materials certainly shows through when you’re in the cabin. Overall it takes away from the driving experience as a whole while making even slightly more upscale interiors at that price point
Con: Road Noise
Another big issue that many people have with the 2014 Subaru Forester is the excessive level of road noise. The general consensus is that the interior sound insulation just isn’t as good as it should be for the price point, and considering how good the rest of the vehicle is. The noise is less noticeable at lower speeds, but it gets worse and much more obvious at higher speeds. While primarily a comfort issue, too much noise can be distracting.
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Con: Maintenance & Repair Costs
Finally, the 2014 Subaru Forester tends to be on the more expensive side of things when it comes to general maintenance and the occasional repair. RepairPal reports that the average annual maintenance cost of a 2014 Forester is about $683 per year.
You will need to spend money on maintenance and repairs no matter what, but this potential cost could be a red flag for potential owners, as it’s significantly more than other competitors in the class. However, more attentive maintenance can help prevent surprise repairs.
Should You Buy a 2014 Subaru Forester?
That just about wraps up our list of the 2014 Subaru Forester pros and cons, but you might still be wondering if you should buy a 2014 Subaru Forester. The answer is actually going to depend on your unique needs, preferences, and overall lifestyle.
When it all balances out, the 2014 Subaru Forester does offer some nice benefits, but there are also some drawbacks that should be considered before major decisions or purchases are made. If the strengths align with what you’re looking for, however, it could be a great choice for function and reliability.
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