2017 Subaru Forester 2.5i

The 2017 Forester is a compact SUV that blends Subaru's trademark all-weather capability with a roomy, practical cabin. It competes with the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, and Mazda CX-5, but stands apart with standard all-wheel drive. The Forester's standard all-wheel drive and raised ground clearance make it a confident companion on slippery roads and light trails. Inside, the Forester offers generous headroom and cargo space, with a tall greenhouse that gives excellent outward visibility. Subaru's reputation for dependability carries over here, though some owners note the paint is soft and prone to chips. The 2.5i is the base Forester, so you skip the Premium's alloy wheels and upgraded audio, but you save several thousand dollars. Its 2.5L I4 makes 170 horsepower and pairs with a standard six-speed manual or an optional automatic; the all-wheel-drive system gives you sure-footed traction in rain or snow. You get steel wheels and a basic stereo, but the cabin still has the Forester's tall windows and generous headroom that make it feel airy.