The 2018 Subaru Forester is in a crowded market, but it’s still one of the best choices in the compact crossover segment. It has more than enough creature comforts and driver accolades to keep it among Subaru’s top sellers, and there are enough options to please almost everyone. Read on to learn more about the 2018 Subaru Forester near Baton Rouge, LA.
New Features
This year’s 2.5i Premium Forester is now available with the Black Edition package, which adds black trim and wheels, paddle shifters, responsive LED headlamps, and four new paint options: Crystal White Pearl, Dark Gray Metallic, Ice Silver Metallic, and Crystal Black Silica. The XT model now gets torque vectoring as standard equipment, while the Touring model now comes with Subaru EyeSight. All models with the EyeSight package now get reverse automatic braking and auto high-beam assist.
Fuel Economy
All 2018 Foresters come standard with a 2.5L four-cylinder boxer engine that puts out a respectable 170hp and 174 lb. ft. of torque. With the CVT (continuously variable auto transmission), the 2.5 gets an EPA-estimated 26mpg in the city and 32mpg during highway driving. The base and the Premium trims come with a six-speed manual transmission and more-than-adequate fuel economy of 22mpg in the city and 28mpg on the highway. XT models get a 2.0L turbocharged, direct-injected engine that puts out 250hp and 258 lb. ft. of torque. The additional horses don’t take away much fuel economy; XTs get 23mpg in the city and 27mpg on the highway on regular unleaded fuel.
Features and Options
The 2018 Subaru Forester near Baton Rouge, LA is available in two distinct models and four different trim levels. They include the 2.5i, the Premium, the Limited, the Touring, the 2.0XT Premium Edition, and the 2.0XT Touring Edition. They are equipped as follows:
· The 2.5i comes with a six-speed manual, backup camera, AC, Bluetooth, cruise control, power windows, doors, and locks, keyless entry, split folding rear seats, tilt and telescoping steering, and a 6.2” touchscreen infotainment system. Available options include alloy wheels and an auto CVT.
· The 2.5i Premium gets a larger touchscreen audio system, power moonroof, the StarLink multimedia system, satellite radio, auto climate controls, 10-way power adjustable driver’s seat, 17” alloys, and an all-weather package that includes heated front seating and heated side mirrors. Models with the CVT get hill descent assist and X-Mode, but the all-weather package is an option. CVT models can get rear cross traffic monitoring, EyeSight, and fog lights.
· The Limited gets X-Mode and the CVT, hill descent assist, rear cross traffic and blind spot monitoring, leather seats, fog lights, the all-weather package, leather-covered steering wheel, auto headlights and a power tailgate. Available options include Harman/Kardon audio, navigation, and the EyeSight package.
· The Touring model gets navigation, EyeSight, HID headlamps, memory driver’s seat, an upgraded audio system, heated wheel, auto high beams, reverse auto braking, keyless entry and start, dual climate controls, and upgraded 18” wheels.
· The XT Premium comes with a turbo 2.0L engine, sport-tuned suspension, 18” wheels, dual exhaust, and a higher-torque CVT. Unlike the 2.5i Premium, the XT version doesn’t come with an available power tailgate or the EyeSight system.
· The XT Touring model gets all the same features as the 2.5i Touring, but they’re added to the XT Premium.
Along with these options, Subaru offers a wide range of options that are only available through dealers. See us today to find out what’s on offer.
Safety
The 2018 Subaru Forester has all the government-mandated safety features, but it takes things further in the form of a driver’s knee airbag and a reinforced frame for the passenger compartment. The NHTSA gives the Forester a five-star rating, while the IIHS gives it a Superior rating and the Top Safety Pick Plus designation.
Driving the Forester
The 2.5L engine’s performance is very strong for its size. It has ample acceleration, quiet operation, and substantial passing power. It has surprisingly car-like handling despite its 8.7” ground clearance, and its properly weighted wheel makes it simple to keep things on the straight and narrow. We like the Forester for its quiet cabin and comfortable ride, and we invite everyone to stop by and see it for themselves.
The compact crossover market is full of options, but we honestly believe that the 2018 Subaru Forester near Baton Rouge, LA is one of the best. Its fuel economy, safety ratings, quiet cabin, and comfortable seating make it a great choice for those looking for the ideal balance between safety and practicality. Stop by the dealership or call us at (888) 486-3576 to learn more.
