2019 Subaru Forester Sport: A Review

by Alex Braham 37 views

Hey guys! Let's dive deep into the 2019 Subaru Forester Sport, shall we? This model year brought some exciting updates, especially in the Sport trim, making it a compelling choice in the compact SUV market. I'm going to break down everything from its performance and features to its overall value, so you can decide if it's the right ride for you. Buckle up, and let's get started!

Performance and Handling: Driving the Forester Sport

Engine and Powertrain

First off, let's talk about what's under the hood. The 2019 Forester Sport is powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. This engine delivers a decent 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque. Now, it's not going to win any races, but it provides enough pep for everyday driving, merging onto highways, and tackling some light off-road adventures. It’s paired with Subaru’s Lineartronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission), which is a crucial element. While some folks aren’t the biggest fans of CVTs, Subaru's version is pretty well-tuned. It helps maximize fuel efficiency and provides smooth acceleration. You won't feel jarring gear changes like you might with a traditional automatic, which makes for a more relaxed driving experience, especially during your daily commute. The CVT is designed to keep the engine in its optimal power band, ensuring you get the most out of the engine. The Forester Sport also comes standard with Subaru's legendary Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system. This is a massive selling point, especially if you live in an area with unpredictable weather conditions. The AWD system provides excellent traction and stability, whether you're dealing with rain, snow, or even some light trails. It enhances the vehicle's handling and gives you more confidence behind the wheel. The system constantly monitors wheel slippage and automatically adjusts power distribution to maintain grip. This is a game-changer when it comes to safety and control.

Driving Dynamics and Handling

The driving dynamics of the 2019 Forester Sport are quite impressive for its class. The suspension is tuned to provide a comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road with ease. It's not a sports car, so don't expect razor-sharp handling, but it's more than capable of handling corners and providing a composed feel on the road. The steering is light and responsive, making it easy to maneuver in tight city streets and parking lots. The Forester Sport also features Subaru's X-MODE, which enhances off-road capability. When engaged, X-MODE optimizes the engine, transmission, and braking systems to improve traction on challenging surfaces like gravel, snow, and mud. It’s a handy feature to have if you enjoy exploring off the beaten path or encounter less-than-ideal road conditions. This feature can be activated with a simple button press. The vehicle's high ground clearance also contributes to its off-road prowess, allowing you to clear obstacles and navigate rough terrain with more confidence. The Forester Sport provides a balanced combination of comfort, practicality, and capability, making it a versatile choice for a wide range of drivers. It's a vehicle that can handle both the daily grind and weekend adventures without breaking a sweat. It's designed to provide a pleasant and confident driving experience in various conditions.

Fuel Efficiency

Fuel efficiency is another area where the 2019 Forester Sport shines. The EPA estimates that it gets around 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway. In mixed driving conditions, you can expect to average around 29 mpg. These are respectable numbers for an all-wheel-drive SUV and make the Forester Sport a relatively economical choice in the long run. The CVT and the engine's design work together to optimize fuel consumption, allowing you to go further on a tank of gas. Subaru's focus on fuel efficiency helps keep your running costs down, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. Real-world fuel economy may vary depending on driving habits and conditions, but the Forester Sport generally delivers on its promise of good fuel efficiency. The vehicle's fuel efficiency contributes to its overall appeal as a practical and affordable vehicle to own and operate.

Interior and Features: Inside the Forester Sport

Design and Comfort

Stepping inside the 2019 Forester Sport, you’re greeted by a spacious and functional interior. The design is clean and modern, with a focus on practicality and ease of use. The Sport trim gets some unique touches, like orange accents throughout the cabin and sporty seat fabric with contrast stitching. This adds a touch of personality and makes the interior feel more youthful and energetic. The seats are supportive and comfortable, providing good cushioning for both short commutes and long road trips. The driving position is also excellent, with good visibility thanks to the large windows and high seating position. There's plenty of headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers, making it a comfortable place to spend time. The materials used in the interior are generally of good quality, with soft-touch surfaces in key areas. While it’s not a luxury vehicle, the interior feels well-built and durable. The design prioritizes functionality, with easy-to-reach controls and ample storage compartments. The cabin feels airy and open, thanks to the large windows and available panoramic sunroof. It's a comfortable and practical space that caters to both the driver and passengers.

Technology and Infotainment

The 2019 Forester Sport is well-equipped with technology features. It comes standard with a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which is easy to use and responsive. The system includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, allowing you to seamlessly connect your smartphone and access your favorite apps, music, and navigation. The screen is clear and easy to read, even in bright sunlight. You can also upgrade to an 8-inch touchscreen for an even more enhanced experience. The infotainment system also includes Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to make hands-free calls and stream audio. The Sport trim includes features like a premium sound system, which delivers clear and crisp audio quality. There are also multiple USB ports, allowing you to charge your devices on the go. The Forester Sport offers a range of advanced driver-assistance systems, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and pre-collision braking. These features enhance safety and make driving easier and more convenient. The technology features are well-integrated and user-friendly, enhancing the overall driving experience.

Practicality and Space

One of the biggest strengths of the Forester Sport is its practicality. It offers a generous amount of cargo space, with 35.4 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats. Folding down the rear seats expands the cargo area to a whopping 76.1 cubic feet, providing ample room for luggage, groceries, or outdoor gear. The cargo area is also well-designed, with a wide opening and a low load floor, making it easy to load and unload items. There are also tie-down points to secure your cargo. The Forester Sport is equipped with a roof rack, which allows you to carry even more gear. The interior is also thoughtfully designed, with plenty of storage compartments for small items. There are cupholders, door pockets, and a center console storage bin. The rear seats offer plenty of legroom, making it a comfortable space for passengers. The vehicle's practicality makes it a great choice for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone who needs a versatile and spacious SUV. It offers a combination of cargo space and passenger comfort that is hard to beat in its class.

Safety Features: Keeping You Safe

Subaru has a strong reputation for safety, and the 2019 Forester Sport is no exception. It comes standard with a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems, including:

  • EyeSight Driver Assist Technology: This includes adaptive cruise control, pre-collision braking, lane departure warning, and lane keep assist.
  • Blind-Spot Detection with Lane Change Assist and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert: These features help to monitor your surroundings and alert you to potential hazards.
  • Automatic High Beams: These automatically dim the high beams when oncoming traffic is detected.

These features work together to enhance safety and help prevent accidents. The Forester Sport also received top safety ratings from both the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). It's a safe and reliable vehicle that can give you peace of mind on the road. The safety features are a significant selling point, making the Forester Sport a great choice for families and anyone who prioritizes safety.

Trim Levels and Pricing: What's Available?

The 2019 Forester Sport is one of several trim levels available for the Forester. Other trims include the base model, Premium, Limited, and Touring. The Sport trim typically sits in the middle of the range, offering a balance of features, performance, and value. The pricing of the Forester Sport is competitive with other compact SUVs in its class. The exact price will vary depending on the options and packages you choose, but it generally offers excellent value for the money. The Sport trim adds a number of features that enhance the vehicle's appearance and functionality, including unique exterior styling elements, upgraded wheels, and a sport-tuned suspension. These features make it a more desirable option for many buyers. When considering the Forester Sport, it's essential to compare its price and features with those of other trim levels and competitors. This will help you make an informed decision and choose the vehicle that best meets your needs and budget.

Pros and Cons: Weighing the Options

Pros:

  • Standard All-Wheel Drive: Provides excellent traction and stability in all weather conditions.
  • Spacious and Practical Interior: Offers plenty of room for passengers and cargo.
  • Good Fuel Efficiency: Delivers respectable gas mileage for an all-wheel-drive SUV.
  • Comprehensive Safety Features: Comes standard with a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems.
  • Comfortable Ride: The suspension provides a smooth and comfortable ride.

Cons:

  • Engine Performance: The engine can feel a bit underpowered for some drivers.
  • CVT Transmission: Some drivers may not be fans of the CVT's feel.
  • Infotainment System: The base infotainment system is functional but could be more advanced.

Conclusion: Is the 2019 Forester Sport Right for You?

Alright, guys, let’s wrap it up. The 2019 Subaru Forester Sport is a solid choice in the compact SUV segment. It offers a great combination of practicality, safety, and all-wheel-drive capability. It's especially appealing if you value a comfortable ride, a spacious interior, and fuel efficiency. It's not the sportiest SUV out there, and the engine might leave some wanting more power. However, its overall versatility and value make it a compelling option. If you're looking for a reliable and capable SUV that can handle both your daily commute and weekend adventures, the Forester Sport is definitely worth considering. It's a well-rounded vehicle that delivers on its promises. I hope this review has given you a clear picture of what the 2019 Subaru Forester Sport has to offer! Happy driving! It's an excellent choice for a variety of needs, providing a blend of reliability, practicality, and performance. Be sure to check it out if you're in the market for a compact SUV; you might just fall in love with it. I hope this helps you make the best decision.