2012 Subaru Forester 2 5x Premium

The Forester is Subaru's compact SUV, the one that competes with the CR-V and RAV4. It feels stable and planted in bad weather, though the base engine is a bit sluggish off the line. The cargo area is roomy and the rear seats fold flat easily, which owners love for hauling gear. Some owners mention soft paint that chips easily and windshields that crack more than usual. Stepping up to the Premium adds fog lights, a larger information display, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel over the base 2.5X. The 2.5L I4 makes 170 horsepower and sends power through the five-speed manual to all four wheels, returning 23 mpg combined. You can add Subaru's All-Weather Package, which includes heated seats and heated side mirrors, a popular upgrade for cold-climate buyers.