2020 Subaru Forester Sport AWD: Review, Specs, & More!

by Alex Braham 55 views

Hey car enthusiasts! Ever dreamed of a ride that's ready for anything, from city streets to rugged trails? Well, buckle up, because we're diving deep into the 2020 Subaru Forester Sport AWD. This isn't just any SUV; it's a versatile machine that blends practicality, performance, and a touch of sporty flair. This review is tailored for you, the everyday driver and the weekend adventurer. We'll explore everything from its capable all-wheel drive system to its surprisingly spacious interior. Get ready to discover why the Forester Sport AWD might be your next perfect match!

Unpacking the 2020 Subaru Forester Sport AWD: What Makes It Special?

So, what's the buzz about the 2020 Subaru Forester Sport AWD? In a nutshell, it's a compact SUV that punches above its weight. It's built on Subaru's renowned symmetrical all-wheel drive platform, offering superior handling and traction in various conditions. This is a huge selling point, especially if you live in an area with unpredictable weather. But it's not just about all-wheel drive. The Sport trim adds a few extra goodies to elevate the experience. Think distinctive orange accents inside and out, a more aggressive front fascia, and a sport-tuned suspension for a slightly more engaging drive. Plus, it's packed with safety features, making it a solid choice for families and anyone prioritizing peace of mind on the road.

Now, let's talk about the heart of this beast. The 2020 Subaru Forester Sport AWD is powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering a respectable 182 horsepower. While it's not a powerhouse, the engine provides ample power for everyday driving and highway merging. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) is smooth and efficient, maximizing fuel economy. And speaking of fuel economy, the Forester Sport AWD boasts impressive figures, making it a budget-friendly choice in the long run. Inside, the Forester Sport welcomes you with a spacious and well-designed cabin. There's plenty of room for passengers and cargo, making it ideal for road trips or hauling groceries. The infotainment system is user-friendly, with a responsive touchscreen display and smartphone integration. Safety is a top priority for Subaru, and the Forester Sport AWD doesn't disappoint. It comes standard with Subaru's EyeSight driver-assist technology, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and pre-collision braking. Overall, the 2020 Subaru Forester Sport AWD is a well-rounded SUV that offers a compelling blend of practicality, performance, and safety. It's a great option for those seeking a vehicle that can handle anything life throws their way.

Core Features and Specs

Here’s a quick rundown of the essential features and specs of the 2020 Subaru Forester Sport AWD to get you started. This helps to see if it matches your lifestyle and needs.

  • Engine: 2.5-liter four-cylinder, 182 horsepower
  • Transmission: Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)
  • Drivetrain: Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD)
  • Fuel Economy: 26 mpg city / 33 mpg highway (EPA estimates)
  • Infotainment: 6.5-inch or 8-inch touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto
  • Safety: Subaru EyeSight Driver Assist Technology (standard)
  • Unique Sport Features: Orange exterior accents, sport-tuned suspension, unique interior trim

These specs paint a picture of a vehicle that is capable, efficient, and well-equipped. It’s important to remember that these are just the basics. We’ll delve deeper into each of these areas to give you a comprehensive understanding of what makes the 2020 Subaru Forester Sport AWD such a compelling choice.

Driving the 2020 Subaru Forester Sport AWD: Performance and Handling

Alright, let's get into the nitty-gritty of how the 2020 Subaru Forester Sport AWD actually drives. When you get behind the wheel, the first thing you'll notice is the comfortable and commanding driving position. The seats are supportive, and visibility is excellent, thanks to the Forester's tall, upright design. The 2.5-liter engine provides adequate power for daily driving. It won't win any races, but it's more than capable of handling highway speeds and merging with traffic. The CVT, while not everyone's favorite, is smooth and efficient, contributing to the Forester's impressive fuel economy. This is a win for both your wallet and the environment.

The symmetrical all-wheel-drive system is where the Forester truly shines. It provides exceptional grip and stability, especially in adverse weather conditions. Whether you're navigating snowy roads or tackling a muddy trail, the Forester Sport AWD instills confidence. The sport-tuned suspension adds a touch of responsiveness, making the handling slightly more engaging than in the base models. It's not a sports car, mind you, but it does feel more planted and controlled. The Forester Sport AWD isn't just about performance, it's also about ride quality. The suspension does a good job of absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road, providing a comfortable ride for both the driver and passengers. This makes it a great choice for long road trips or daily commutes. Overall, driving the 2020 Subaru Forester Sport AWD is a pleasant and capable experience. It's not the most exciting SUV on the market, but it's a solid performer that excels in various conditions. It’s a reliable partner for your everyday adventures and those weekend getaways, no matter the road conditions.

Handling the Road: All-Wheel Drive and Suspension

The star of the show for the 2020 Subaru Forester Sport AWD is undoubtedly its symmetrical all-wheel-drive system. This isn’t just a gimmick; it's a core component of the Forester's DNA. Subaru's AWD system is designed to provide optimal power distribution to all four wheels, constantly adapting to changing road conditions. This means superior grip, enhanced stability, and increased confidence, whether you're driving on dry pavement, wet roads, snow, or even light off-road terrain. The system automatically sends power to the wheels with the most grip, helping to prevent wheel spin and maintain control. This is a significant advantage over front-wheel-drive vehicles, especially in challenging weather conditions.

Another key element is the sport-tuned suspension, which enhances the driving experience. The suspension provides a slightly firmer ride, which translates to improved handling and reduced body roll. This makes the Forester Sport AWD feel more planted and responsive, particularly when cornering. The suspension setup is a good balance between sportiness and comfort, offering a ride that’s enjoyable without being overly harsh. It's worth noting that the Forester also has a generous ground clearance, which further enhances its off-road capabilities. This combination of all-wheel drive and a capable suspension makes the 2020 Subaru Forester Sport AWD a truly versatile vehicle. It's a great choice for those who value both on-road and off-road performance. It's ready to handle whatever the road throws your way.

Inside the 2020 Subaru Forester Sport AWD: Comfort and Technology

Let’s step inside and explore the 2020 Subaru Forester Sport AWD's interior. The first thing that strikes you is the spaciousness. The Forester offers plenty of headroom and legroom, both front and rear, making it a comfortable place to spend time. The seats are well-designed and supportive, even on longer drives. The Sport trim features unique interior accents, including orange stitching and trim, that add a touch of personality. The overall design is clean and functional, with a focus on practicality.

Subaru has a reputation for user-friendly interiors, and the 2020 Forester Sport AWD is no exception. The infotainment system is intuitive and easy to navigate. It comes standard with a touchscreen display that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone. The climate controls are simple to operate, and the layout of the dashboard is logical and well-organized. The Forester also offers a generous amount of cargo space. The rear seats fold down easily, creating a flat load floor that's perfect for hauling luggage, groceries, or outdoor gear. This makes the Forester Sport AWD a versatile vehicle that can adapt to a variety of needs.

The materials used throughout the cabin are of good quality, and the fit and finish are excellent. The Sport trim adds a touch of premium feel with its unique accents. The Forester also boasts excellent visibility, thanks to its large windows and upright design. This enhances safety and makes the vehicle easier to maneuver. Overall, the interior of the 2020 Subaru Forester Sport AWD is a comfortable, practical, and well-designed space. It’s a great place to spend your time, whether you're commuting to work or embarking on a weekend adventure. It’s the perfect blend of comfort, functionality, and technology.

Tech and Interior Highlights

Inside the 2020 Subaru Forester Sport AWD, you'll find a well-equipped and user-friendly tech and interior setup. Here’s a closer look at some key highlights.

  • Infotainment System: The Forester Sport comes with a touchscreen display, ranging from 6.5 inches to 8 inches, depending on the trim level. It supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone for navigation, music, and more.
  • Comfort Features: Expect a comfortable cabin with plenty of headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers. The seats are supportive, making long drives enjoyable. The Sport trim adds unique interior accents for a more premium feel.
  • Cargo Space: The Forester offers a generous amount of cargo space, with a flat load floor when the rear seats are folded down. This versatility makes it ideal for hauling luggage, groceries, or outdoor gear.
  • Safety Features: The 2020 Subaru Forester Sport AWD includes Subaru's EyeSight driver-assist technology as standard. This includes adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, pre-collision braking, and more.
  • User-Friendly Design: The interior layout is clean and logical, with easy-to-use controls and excellent visibility. The climate controls are simple to operate.

These features combine to create an interior that's both practical and enjoyable. The Forester Sport is designed to make your driving experience as comfortable and convenient as possible, all while keeping you and your passengers safe. It's a great combination of form and function.

Safety First: 2020 Subaru Forester Sport AWD Safety Features

Safety is a paramount concern for Subaru, and the 2020 Forester Sport AWD is a testament to that commitment. It comes standard with Subaru's EyeSight driver-assist technology, a suite of advanced features designed to enhance safety and prevent accidents. This is a huge selling point for anyone prioritizing safety in their vehicle. The EyeSight system includes adaptive cruise control, which automatically adjusts your speed to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front. This is a great feature for highway driving.

Lane departure warning alerts you if you drift out of your lane, while lane keep assist gently steers the vehicle back into its lane. Pre-collision braking can automatically apply the brakes if it detects an impending collision, helping to mitigate or avoid an accident. These features work together to provide an extra layer of protection, reducing the risk of accidents and protecting occupants. The 2020 Subaru Forester Sport AWD also boasts a high-strength steel frame and a robust airbag system. In addition to EyeSight, the Forester offers a range of other safety features, including blind-spot detection with rear cross-traffic alert. This system alerts you to vehicles in your blind spot and warns you of approaching traffic when reversing.

The Forester also received excellent safety ratings from both the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). These independent assessments are a testament to the Forester's strong safety performance. Safety isn't just about technology, it's also about visibility. The Forester's design prioritizes excellent visibility, with large windows and a tall, upright stance. This makes it easier to see other vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists, further enhancing safety. Overall, the 2020 Subaru Forester Sport AWD is a safe and reliable vehicle that offers peace of mind. It’s a great choice for families and anyone who values safety on the road.

EyeSight and Other Safety Tech

The 2020 Subaru Forester Sport AWD is packed with a comprehensive suite of safety features designed to protect you and your passengers. Here's a breakdown of the key technologies:

  • EyeSight Driver Assist Technology: This is the heart of the Forester's safety system. It includes:
    • Adaptive Cruise Control: Automatically maintains a safe distance from the vehicle ahead.
    • Lane Departure Warning: Alerts you if you drift out of your lane.
    • Lane Keep Assist: Gently steers the vehicle back into its lane.
    • Pre-Collision Braking: Automatically applies the brakes to mitigate or avoid a collision.
    • Pre-Collision Throttle Management: Reduces power to minimize the impact of a collision.
  • Blind-Spot Detection with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert: Alerts you to vehicles in your blind spot and warns you of approaching traffic when reversing.
  • High-Strength Steel Frame: Provides a strong and protective structure.
  • Airbag System: Includes multiple airbags to protect occupants in a collision.
  • Excellent Safety Ratings: Received high marks from IIHS and NHTSA.

These safety features provide an extra layer of protection, making the 2020 Subaru Forester Sport AWD a safe and reliable choice for drivers and passengers. Subaru's commitment to safety is evident in the Forester's comprehensive safety package.

The Verdict: Is the 2020 Subaru Forester Sport AWD Right for You?

So, after taking a deep dive into the 2020 Subaru Forester Sport AWD, what's the final word? Well, this SUV is a compelling package, especially for those seeking a versatile and capable vehicle. It excels in several key areas. The symmetrical all-wheel-drive system provides exceptional handling and traction, making it a great choice for all-weather driving. The spacious and comfortable interior, combined with user-friendly technology, makes it a pleasant place to spend time. And the standard EyeSight driver-assist technology offers a high level of safety.

However, it's not perfect. The 2.5-liter engine provides adequate power, but it's not going to win any races. If you're looking for a more spirited driving experience, you might want to consider other options. The CVT, while efficient, may not appeal to everyone. If you're a driving enthusiast, you might prefer a traditional automatic transmission. Overall, the 2020 Subaru Forester Sport AWD is an excellent choice for those who value practicality, safety, and all-weather capability. It's a great fit for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone who needs a reliable and versatile SUV.

Consider this SUV if:

  • You prioritize all-wheel-drive performance and safety.
  • You need a spacious and comfortable interior.
  • You value a user-friendly infotainment system.
  • You appreciate good fuel economy.

This might not be the best pick if:

  • You crave a powerful engine.
  • You prefer a more engaging driving experience.
  • You're not a fan of CVTs.

Ultimately, the best way to determine if the 2020 Subaru Forester Sport AWD is right for you is to take it for a test drive. Experience the handling, the interior, and the features for yourself. You might just find your perfect match!