Ultimate space saver: discover the truth about subaru forester back seat flexibility

Whether you’re an adventure-seeker, a family on the go, or simply need extra cargo space, knowing if the back seats of your Subaru Forester fold flat is crucial. This comprehensive guide will delve into all aspects of the Forester’s rear seat configuration, providing you with the information you need to maximize your vehicle’s versatility.

Rear Seat Folding Capabilities

Yes, the back seats of the Subaru Forester fold flat. This feature is available in all trim levels and model years, making it a standard convenience for owners. The 60/40 split-folding design allows you to fold down either the left or right side of the rear seat independently, giving you flexibility in accommodating both passengers and cargo.

Folding Mechanism

Folding the back seats of the Forester is a simple and straightforward process:

1. Release the lever: Locate the lever on the side of the seat you want to fold down.
2. Push the seat forward: Push the seat forward until it clicks into the folded position.
3. Secure the seat: Ensure the seat is securely latched in place to prevent it from moving during driving.

Cargo Capacity with Folded Seats

With the back seats folded flat, the Subaru Forester boasts an impressive cargo capacity:

• 2019-2023 Models: 76.1 cubic feet
• 2014-2018 Models: 74.7 cubic feet

This ample space allows you to transport large items, such as furniture, equipment, or bulky luggage, with ease.

Passenger and Cargo Combinations

The 60/40 split-folding feature provides versatility for various passenger and cargo configurations:

• One person and maximum cargo: Fold down the entire rear seat to create a spacious cargo area.
• Two people and moderate cargo: Fold down one side of the rear seat to accommodate passengers and still have some cargo space.
• Three people and limited cargo: Fold down only a portion of one side of the rear seat to fit three passengers and a small amount of cargo.

Advantages of Flat-Folding Rear Seats

• Increased cargo capacity: Expand your vehicle’s storage space for bulky items.
• Versatile configurations: Customize the interior to suit your needs.
• Easy access to cargo: Load and unload items effortlessly through the wide rear opening.
• Enhanced practicality: Ideal for camping, road trips, or hauling equipment.

Limitations of Flat-Folding Rear Seats

• Reduced seating capacity: Folding down the rear seats limits passenger capacity.
• Potential for damage: Improper folding can damage the seat mechanisms.
• Safety considerations: Ensure all seats are securely latched before driving.

Final Thoughts: Embracing Versatility with Flat-Folding Seats

The Subaru Forester‘s flat-folding back seats are an invaluable feature that transforms the vehicle into a versatile and practical companion for any adventure. Whether you need to transport large items, accommodate passengers and cargo, or simply expand your storage capacity, the Forester’s rear seat configuration has you covered.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Do all Subaru Forester models have flat-folding back seats?
A: Yes, all trim levels and model years of the Subaru Forester feature flat-folding back seats.

Q: How much cargo space do I have with the back seats folded down?
A: The cargo capacity with the back seats folded flat is approximately 76.1 cubic feet for 2019-2023 models and 74.7 cubic feet for 2014-2018 models.

Q: Can I fold down only one side of the back seat?
A: Yes, the 60/40 split-folding design allows you to fold down either the left or right side of the rear seat independently.

Q: Is it easy to fold and unfold the back seats?
A: Yes, the folding mechanism is simple and straightforward, requiring just a few steps to fold or unfold the seats.

Q: Are there any safety considerations when folding down the back seats?
A: Ensure all seats are securely latched before driving to prevent them from moving during driving.