Hey everyone! Today, we're taking a closer look at the 2021 Subaru Forester Premium, a compact SUV that has garnered a loyal following. The Forester, known for its practicality, safety features, and all-wheel-drive capability, has consistently been a top contender in its segment. In this article, we'll break down the Forester Premium, covering everything from its features and performance to its pros and cons. So, if you're in the market for a reliable and versatile SUV, buckle up, because we're about to explore what makes the 2021 Subaru Forester Premium a standout choice.

Overview of the 2021 Subaru Forester Premium

The 2021 Subaru Forester Premium sits in the middle of the Forester trim lineup, offering a sweet spot between affordability and features. It builds upon the base model by adding enhancements that boost both convenience and comfort. The Forester has always been about offering value, and the Premium trim delivers on that promise. It's designed for those who need a practical vehicle capable of handling various driving conditions, from city streets to snowy mountain roads. The 2021 model year saw some minor updates, mainly focusing on refining existing features and maintaining the Forester's reputation for reliability. Subaru is known for its commitment to safety, and the Forester Premium is no exception. With standard features like EyeSight driver-assist technology, it provides an extra layer of protection on the road. The Forester's symmetrical all-wheel-drive system is another key selling point, offering superior traction and stability, especially in adverse weather conditions. The interior is thoughtfully designed, with ample space for both passengers and cargo, making it a great choice for families and adventurers alike. The infotainment system is user-friendly, and the overall driving experience is smooth and enjoyable. This SUV strikes a good balance between functionality, safety, and everyday usability, cementing its place as a popular choice in the compact SUV market. Whether you're commuting to work, running errands, or planning a weekend getaway, the 2021 Subaru Forester Premium is well-equipped to handle the task.

Key Features and Specifications

Before we dive deeper, let's take a look at some of the key features and specifications of the 2021 Subaru Forester Premium. Under the hood, the Forester Premium is powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which helps to optimize fuel efficiency. The EPA-estimated fuel economy is around 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway, making it relatively fuel-efficient for its class. As mentioned earlier, all-wheel drive is standard, providing excellent traction and stability. The Premium trim comes with several desirable features, including a panoramic sunroof, which brightens up the cabin and offers a great view, especially on scenic drives. Other notable features include heated front seats, which are a welcome addition on cold mornings, and a power-adjustable driver's seat for added comfort. The infotainment system includes a 6.5-inch touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto integration, allowing for seamless smartphone connectivity. The safety features are extensive, with Subaru's EyeSight driver-assist technology package including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, lane keep assist, and pre-collision braking. The interior offers ample space for passengers, with plenty of headroom and legroom in both the front and rear seats. The cargo area is also generous, providing enough space for luggage, groceries, or outdoor gear. The Forester Premium's blend of practicality, safety, and technology makes it a compelling choice for a wide range of buyers. The car also features automatic climate control, automatic headlights, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel, enhancing the overall driving experience. The combination of these features makes the 2021 Subaru Forester Premium a well-rounded and versatile SUV that caters to various needs and preferences.

Performance and Handling

The 2021 Subaru Forester Premium offers a driving experience that prioritizes comfort and practicality. The 2.5-liter engine provides adequate power for everyday driving, though it's not designed to be a performance vehicle. Acceleration is smooth, and the CVT transmission works seamlessly to deliver power efficiently. The all-wheel-drive system is a standout feature, providing excellent grip and stability in various road conditions. Whether you're driving on wet, snowy, or uneven surfaces, the Forester's AWD system ensures confident handling. The suspension is tuned for comfort, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road with ease. The Forester feels composed and stable, even on winding roads. The steering is light and precise, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces. The car's high ground clearance adds to its versatility, allowing you to tackle unpaved roads and light off-road trails with confidence. The Forester's driving dynamics are well-suited for both city driving and highway cruising. The vehicle's compact size makes it easy to park and navigate through traffic, while the comfortable ride ensures a pleasant experience on longer journeys. The fuel efficiency is another strong point, making it an economical choice for daily commuting and weekend trips. The Forester's balanced approach to performance makes it an excellent choice for drivers who value practicality, safety, and comfort. The car's responsiveness and overall driving experience are designed to provide a smooth and enjoyable journey. The vehicle offers an impressive combination of power, handling, and fuel efficiency. It has a great turning radius and good visibility, making it easy to see the road.

Engine and Transmission

As previously mentioned, the 2021 Subaru Forester Premium is equipped with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. This engine is known for its reliability and efficiency. It delivers 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque, providing adequate power for most driving situations. The engine's design prioritizes fuel economy, making it a cost-effective choice for daily use. The engine is mated to a continuously variable transmission (CVT). CVT is known for its smooth operation and fuel-saving capabilities. It helps to keep the engine operating at its most efficient speed, which contributes to the Forester's excellent fuel economy ratings. The CVT also contributes to the smooth and seamless acceleration, with no traditional gear changes. The combination of the engine and transmission results in a balanced performance profile that suits a variety of driving needs. It offers a good balance between power and fuel efficiency, making it suitable for both city driving and highway cruising. The car's engine performance makes it a practical choice for a wide range of drivers. The car engine delivers enough power to make it up hills and get onto the highway without any issues. The CVT transmission ensures the car runs smoothly.

Interior and Comfort

Step inside the 2021 Subaru Forester Premium, and you'll find a thoughtfully designed interior that prioritizes comfort and practicality. The cabin is spacious, with ample headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers. The seats are supportive and comfortable, making long journeys a breeze. The Premium trim includes heated front seats, a welcome feature on cold days. The quality of materials used throughout the interior is good, with a mix of soft-touch surfaces and durable plastics. The dashboard layout is clean and intuitive, with easy-to-reach controls. The infotainment system is user-friendly, with a 6.5-inch touchscreen display. It offers Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, allowing for seamless smartphone connectivity. The panoramic sunroof, a standard feature on the Premium trim, adds to the airy feel of the cabin and provides a great view of the sky. The interior is designed to be functional, with plenty of storage compartments for small items. The cargo area is also generous, providing ample space for luggage, groceries, or outdoor gear. The rear seats fold down easily, expanding the cargo capacity for larger items. The overall design of the interior is focused on providing a comfortable and enjoyable driving experience. The car features automatic climate control, which helps to maintain a consistent and comfortable temperature. The car offers a quiet cabin, minimizing road and wind noise. The combination of these features ensures a pleasant and relaxing driving experience. The interior feels spacious and airy, providing a comfortable environment for passengers.

Seating and Space

The 2021 Subaru Forester Premium shines when it comes to seating and space. The front seats are well-bolstered and provide good support, making them comfortable for long drives. The power-adjustable driver's seat allows you to find the perfect driving position. The rear seats offer plenty of legroom, even for taller passengers. The Forester's boxy shape contributes to the generous headroom, ensuring a comfortable experience for all occupants. The rear seats can comfortably accommodate three adults. The cargo area is spacious and versatile, with a wide opening and a low load floor, making it easy to load and unload items. The rear seats can be folded down to create a larger cargo area, perfect for transporting bulky items. The cargo area also features tie-down points, which help to secure your belongings. The combination of passenger and cargo space makes the Forester an excellent choice for families and those who need a versatile vehicle. Whether you're carrying passengers, luggage, or outdoor gear, the Forester offers ample space to accommodate your needs. The car provides a comfortable and spacious environment for both the driver and passengers. The car also features rear seat recline to offer additional comfort.

Technology and Infotainment

The 2021 Subaru Forester Premium comes equipped with a user-friendly infotainment system and a range of technology features designed to enhance the driving experience. The centerpiece of the system is a 6.5-inch touchscreen display, which is easy to navigate 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 infotainment system also includes Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling and audio streaming. The Premium trim comes with a six-speaker audio system, providing a decent sound quality. The car also features USB ports for charging devices. The Forester also features Subaru's EyeSight driver-assist technology, which includes a suite of safety features, such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, lane keep assist, and pre-collision braking. These features provide an extra layer of protection and help to enhance driver confidence. The Forester also features automatic climate control and a rearview camera. The technology features are well-integrated and easy to use, making the Forester a modern and convenient vehicle. The car provides a seamless integration of technology and functionality. The infotainment system's ease of use makes it a standout feature. The car’s technology features provide both safety and convenience. The infotainment system is simple to operate.

Infotainment System Features

The 2021 Subaru Forester Premium's infotainment system offers a range of features designed to enhance your driving experience. The 6.5-inch touchscreen display is the central hub for all infotainment functions. It is responsive and easy to use. The system supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing you to connect your smartphone and access your favorite apps, music, and navigation. This integration allows for a seamless and user-friendly experience, making it easy to stay connected on the go. The infotainment system also features Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling and audio streaming. This is a convenient and safe way to make and receive calls while driving. The system includes a six-speaker audio system, which delivers a decent sound quality for your music and podcasts. The infotainment system also includes USB ports for charging your devices. The system is designed to provide a comprehensive and user-friendly experience. The integration of smartphone connectivity, Bluetooth, and audio streaming offers a convenient and enjoyable driving experience. The infotainment system makes use of the newest technology features. The touchscreen system is easy to view and see your apps on the road.

Safety Features

Safety is a top priority in the 2021 Subaru Forester Premium, and it's reflected in its comprehensive suite of safety features. The standard EyeSight driver-assist technology package is a key highlight. It includes adaptive cruise control, which automatically adjusts your speed to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front; lane departure warning and lane keep assist, which help to prevent unintentional lane departures; and pre-collision braking, which can automatically apply the brakes to help avoid or mitigate a frontal collision. Other standard safety features include a rearview camera, which helps to make parking and reversing easier and safer; and automatic headlights, which turn on and off automatically based on ambient light conditions. The Forester also features a robust airbag system, including front, side, and curtain airbags, to protect occupants in the event of a collision. The car's symmetrical all-wheel-drive system enhances safety by providing superior traction and stability in various road conditions. The Forester has received high safety ratings from both the IIHS and the NHTSA, further reinforcing its reputation for safety. The combination of these features makes the 2021 Subaru Forester Premium a very safe vehicle. The car's dedication to safety ensures that it protects both the driver and the passengers. The Forester's safety features are designed to prevent accidents and protect occupants. The car is also fitted with a high-strength steel frame to help minimize any impact in case of a crash.

Driver-Assist Technology

The 2021 Subaru Forester Premium benefits from Subaru's advanced EyeSight driver-assist technology. EyeSight is a suite of features designed to enhance safety and provide additional assistance to the driver. Adaptive cruise control is one of the key features, allowing the Forester to maintain a set speed while automatically adjusting the speed to maintain a safe following distance from the vehicle ahead. Lane departure warning alerts the driver if the vehicle begins to drift out of its lane, and lane keep assist gently steers the vehicle back into its lane. Pre-collision braking can automatically apply the brakes to help avoid or mitigate a frontal collision if a potential impact is detected. The EyeSight system uses two cameras mounted near the rearview mirror to monitor the road ahead, providing a wider field of view than traditional systems. This enhanced vision allows the system to detect potential hazards and react quickly. The driver-assist technology also includes features like automatic emergency steering, which helps to steer the vehicle to avoid a collision. The EyeSight system helps to make the Forester one of the safest vehicles in its class. The system enhances the overall driving experience. The inclusion of driver-assist technologies is a testament to Subaru's commitment to safety. The driver assist technology helps reduce any road risks.

Trim Levels and Pricing

The 2021 Subaru Forester is available in several trim levels, each offering a different set of features and price points. The Premium trim sits in the middle of the lineup, offering a good balance of features and value. Other trim levels include the base model, the Sport, the Limited, and the Touring. The base model offers a solid foundation, with essential features like all-wheel drive and the EyeSight driver-assist technology. The Sport trim adds unique styling elements and enhanced features. The Limited trim offers more premium features, such as leather upholstery and upgraded technology. The Touring trim is the top-of-the-line model, offering the most luxurious features and amenities. The pricing for the Forester Premium starts at a competitive price point, making it an attractive option for those seeking a well-equipped compact SUV. The exact pricing varies depending on the options and packages selected. The availability of multiple trim levels allows buyers to choose a model that best suits their needs and budget. The Forester's range of trim levels provides something for everyone. The wide range of trim levels allows buyers to choose a model that best suits their needs. The car comes with many options that can be upgraded.

Pricing and Value

The 2021 Subaru Forester Premium offers excellent value for its price. The starting price of the Premium trim is competitive within the compact SUV segment, and the car includes many standard features. The features included in the Premium trim make it a great value. The car comes with heated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a user-friendly infotainment system, all of which enhance the overall driving experience. Compared to other vehicles in its class, the Forester Premium provides a compelling combination of features, safety, and performance at an attractive price point. The Forester's reputation for reliability and its high resale value add to its overall value proposition. The car is an excellent choice for buyers looking for a practical, safe, and well-equipped SUV without breaking the bank. The vehicle's value is further enhanced by its fuel efficiency and all-wheel-drive capability. The overall value of the Forester Premium makes it a smart choice for any potential buyer. The car offers a lot of value for the price tag.

Pros and Cons

Let's wrap up with a quick look at the pros and cons of the 2021 Subaru Forester Premium. On the pro side, we have the standard all-wheel drive, providing excellent traction and stability in various road conditions. The EyeSight driver-assist technology is a major plus, enhancing safety and driver confidence. The interior is spacious and comfortable, with ample room for passengers and cargo. The fuel efficiency is good for its class. The infotainment system is user-friendly and well-integrated. Subaru's reputation for reliability is another strong selling point. However, there are also some cons to consider. The engine's power is adequate but not particularly sporty. The infotainment system's graphics could be more modern. Some may find the CVT transmission to be less engaging than a traditional automatic. While the interior is practical, some may desire more premium materials. Despite these minor drawbacks, the 2021 Subaru Forester Premium remains a compelling choice in the compact SUV market, offering a great balance of features, safety, and value. The Forester offers a lot of positives. The pros outweigh the cons. This SUV is a great value.

Advantages and Disadvantages

To make an informed decision, it's essential to weigh the advantages and disadvantages of the 2021 Subaru Forester Premium. One of the primary advantages is its standard all-wheel-drive system, which provides excellent traction and stability in various conditions. This is a significant benefit, especially in areas with inclement weather. Another advantage is the comprehensive EyeSight driver-assist technology package, which enhances safety and provides peace of mind. The spacious and comfortable interior is also a major plus, offering plenty of room for passengers and cargo. The Forester's reputation for reliability is another key advantage, making it a dependable choice for the long haul. The fuel efficiency is also commendable for its class, helping to keep running costs down. However, there are a few disadvantages to consider. The engine's power, while adequate, may not satisfy those seeking a more spirited driving experience. The infotainment system, while functional, could benefit from more modern graphics. Some drivers may prefer the feel of a traditional automatic transmission over the CVT. The interior materials, while durable, may not feel as premium as those found in some competitors. Weighing the pros and cons will help you decide if the 2021 Subaru Forester Premium is the right vehicle for your needs.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the 2021 Subaru Forester Premium is a well-rounded and versatile compact SUV that offers a compelling combination of features, safety, and value. With its standard all-wheel drive, comprehensive safety features, spacious interior, and reliable performance, the Forester Premium is an excellent choice for a wide range of buyers. If you're looking for a practical and dependable SUV that can handle various driving conditions, the 2021 Subaru Forester Premium is definitely worth considering. It is a fantastic vehicle for its price tag. The Forester has many qualities. The Forester continues to be a great seller for a reason. The car can meet the demands of almost anyone.