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Subaru forester showdown: base vs. premium – the ultimate comparison guide

What To Know

  • If you’re looking for a basic SUV with a good amount of standard features, the base trim level is a good option.
  • The premium trim level has more features than the base trim level, including leather seats, a sunroof, and a navigation system.

When it comes to choosing an SUV, the Subaru Forester is a popular option for its affordability, reliability, and versatility. But with two main trim levels to choose from—the base and premium—it can be tough to decide which one is right for you.

In this blog post, we’ll compare the Subaru Forester base vs premium trim levels in terms of features, price, and performance. We’ll also provide some tips to help you make the best decision for your needs.

Features

The Subaru Forester base trim level comes with a variety of standard features, including:

  • 17-inch steel wheels
  • LED headlights
  • Automatic climate control
  • 6.5-inch touchscreen display
  • Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility
  • Bluetooth connectivity
  • Rearview camera

The premium trim level adds a number of additional features, including:

  • 18-inch alloy wheels
  • LED fog lights
  • Power sunroof
  • Leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob
  • Heated front seats
  • Dual-zone automatic climate control
  • 8-inch touchscreen display
  • Navigation system
  • SiriusXM satellite radio

Price

The Subaru Forester base trim level has a starting price of $25,195. The premium trim level starts at $27,995.

Performance

Both the base and premium trim levels of the Subaru Forester come with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque. The base trim level comes with a six-speed manual transmission, while the premium trim level comes with a continuously variable transmission (CVT).

In terms of fuel economy, the base trim level gets an EPA-estimated 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway. The premium trim level gets an EPA-estimated 25 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway.

Which Trim Level is Right for You?

The best way to decide which Subaru Forester trim level is right for you is to consider your needs and budget. If you’re looking for a basic SUV with a good amount of standard features, the base trim level is a good option. If you’re looking for a more luxurious SUV with more features, the premium trim level is a better choice.

Here are some additional factors to consider when making your decision:

  • How often do you drive? If you drive a lot, you may want to opt for the premium trim level for its better fuel economy.
  • What kind of terrain do you drive on? If you frequently drive on rough roads, you may want to opt for the base trim level for its more rugged suspension.
  • What are your must-have features? If there are certain features that you can’t live without, make sure to check if they’re included in the trim level you’re considering.

Tips for Choosing the Right Trim Level

Here are a few tips to help you choose the right Subaru Forester trim level:

  • Do your research. Read reviews and compare the different trim levels online.
  • Test drive both trim levels. This is the best way to get a feel for the different features and performance of each trim level.
  • Consider your budget. Make sure to factor in the price of the trim level you’re considering, as well as the cost of insurance and maintenance.

Deciding Factors: Base vs Premium

  • Price: The base trim level is more affordable than the premium trim level.
  • Features: The premium trim level has more features than the base trim level, including leather seats, a sunroof, and a navigation system.
  • Performance: Both trim levels have the same engine and transmission, but the premium trim level gets slightly better fuel economy.
  • Which one is right for you? The best way to decide which trim level is right for you is to consider your needs and budget. If you’re looking for a basic SUV with a good amount of standard features, the base trim level is a good option. If you’re looking for a more luxurious SUV with more features, the premium trim level is a better choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What are the main differences between the Subaru Forester base and premium trim levels?
A: The main differences between the Subaru Forester base and premium trim levels are the features, price, and performance. The premium trim level has more features than the base trim level, including leather seats, a sunroof, and a navigation system. The premium trim level also has a higher starting price than the base trim level.

Q: Which Subaru Forester trim level is right for me?
A: The best way to decide which Subaru Forester trim level is right for you is to consider your needs and budget. If you’re looking for a basic SUV with a good amount of standard features, the base trim level is a good option. If you’re looking for a more luxurious SUV with more features, the premium trim level is a better choice.

Q: How much does the Subaru Forester base trim level cost?
A: The Subaru Forester base trim level has a starting price of $25,195.

Q: How much does the Subaru Forester premium trim level cost?
A: The Subaru Forester premium trim level has a starting price of $27,995.

Q: What is the fuel economy of the Subaru Forester base trim level?
A: The Subaru Forester base trim level gets an EPA-estimated 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway.

Q: What is the fuel economy of the Subaru Forester premium trim level?
A: The Subaru Forester premium trim level gets an EPA-estimated 25 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway.

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