The 2002 Subaru Forester Rocks!

Despite the occasional jeer from friends alluding to the vehicle's effeminate nature, I have found the 2002 Subaru Forester to be just as tough, more reliable, and a heck of a lot safer than a majority of the full-size SUVs to which it has been compared. As an additional benefit, I also get about 25% more miles per gallon on this car vice the full-size beasts lumbering down the road.

I bought this car for several reasons; principle amongst these was safety, durability, and the all-wheel drive capability. The 2002 Subaru Forester definitely meet or exceeded my expectations on all of these criteria for which I chose to buy it.

Safety: Time after time this car is consistently rated in the Top 5, if not the Top spot, on federal crash test studies done at various speeds. I've found the car's additional clearance over other vehicles to be particularly helpful in seeing more of the road. Also, despite its height the Forester is trim and handles quite well, meaning I've never had the slightest sensation of instability rounding corners (even with a mattress strapped on top!) or carrying heavy loads. The factory standard breaks are excellent and the location of the rear brake lights really adds another element of safety that I appreciate.

Durability: My Forester has been in some tight spots; knee deep mud, ice, snow, and excessive pothole city-driving. I would rate the performance on the "natural" elements as "excellent" and the city-driving as "good". After about 45K miles a discernable squeak is evident on the right-hand passenger window area (oh yes, the window has been replaced several times with no difficulty.) The paint is wearing well, although I should wash the car more frequently with a wax-based protective sealer.

All-wheel Capability: As alluded to above, the all-wheel driving capability of the Forester is superb. The car drives and feels secure; its traction is viable on all types of surfaces. I feel comfortable driving this car almost anywhere, anytime, and in most of nature's conditions.

In summary, I rate this car as a solid 5-Star buy based on my selection criteria above. It is easy to maintain, safe, durable, and reliable. The only thing I would like to see improved, and it seems that they have, is adding a more powerful or turbo-charged engine to future editions as the V4 is adequate, but lacks the accelerating power needed for quick pick-ups with a full load on the highway ramps. A good value for your money and the comfort of knowing your family will be safe.