The article is split into US and Canada info.
The 2020 Forester in the US
The long-running Forester was all-new for 2019 (reviewed here), so don’t expect too many changes for 2020. However, Subaru did give the more spacious 5th-generation Forester some nice inclusions when it arrives at dealerships this month. New standard features for 2020 include Subaru EyeSight Driver Assist Technology and Rear Seat Reminder to ensure kids and pets don’t get stranded in the back.
Available in 5 trims (Base, Premium, Sport, Limited, Touring) all models find the 2.5L engine under the hood, making 182 hp and 176 lb-ft of torque paired with a CVT transmission. Not a big towing machine, the Forester can pull up to 1,500 lbs if needed and does get Trailer Stability Assist as standard to help out.
But the value and dependable AWD keep Subie fans returning to the 23-year-old Forester. The entry-level model starts at $24,494 (plus a $1,000 destination charge), offering 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels in silver finish and a roof rails upgrade for a reasonable $600. At the top end, the Forester Touring rings in a $34,595 plus fees and finds a CVT with 7-speed manual shift mode and paddle shift switches, Reverse Automatic Braking, and an 8.0-inch Multimedia Navigation system with a Harman Kardon premium sound system.
| Forester | $24,495 |
| Forester Premium | $27,395 |
| Forester Sport | $28,995 |
| Forester Limited | $31,095 |
| Forester Touring | $34,595 |
2020 Forester in Canada
Subaru’s popular compact SUV is still going strong since it arrived back in 1997. The Forester was all-new for 2019 (check out our First Drive review here) and gets some nice updates for 2020, including more safety standard features and the SUBARU STARLINK Connected Services system for select trims.
Arrives at Canadian Dealers early September
Available in 6 trims across Canada, the 2020 Forester starting price appears to be a bit higher than the outgoing 2019 — C$27,995 compared to C$28,695, both for the 2.5i entry-level model.
But that minor bump in price is pretty insignificant considering EyeSight with Lane Centring Assist alone is now standard.
Price
The new Forester hits Canadian dealers early September 2019. US pricing hasn’t been released; pricing below for Canada (MSRP, excluding fees/charges, all CVT transmissions):
- Forester $28,695
- Convenience $32,295
- Touring $33,895
- Sport $35,495
- Limited $38,195
- Premier $39,995
Changes for 2020: more standard safety and SUBARU STARLINK Connected Services
The 5th-generation Forester was all-new for 2019 with a completely new design, more performance and off-road capability, a more spacious cabin, and added refinement.
Under the hood, the 2.5L, 182-hp and 176 lb.-ft. of torque engine is still intact, paired to the CVT transmission.
For 2020, the Forester does add more safety enhancements as standard, including EyeSight with Lane Centring Assist and rear seat reminder. As well as SUBARU STARLINK, discussed below.
SUBARU STARLINK Connected Services — Canada First
The Convenience model — the second trim in the lineup at C$32,295 — and above also shows up with the introduction for the first time in Canada of SUBARU STARLINK Connected Services. The system allows Forester owners to stay connected with their vehicle using the nationwide 4G LTE cellular network instead of using mobile phone data. Subaru offers a free three-year trial subscription to test the system out.
2020 Subaru Forester Specs
| Specification | 2020 Subaru Forester |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | 2.5L 4-cylinder Boxer engine |
| Horsepower | 182 hp |
| Torque | 176 lb-ft |
| Transmission | Lineartronic Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) |
| Drivetrain | Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) |
| Ground Clearance | 8.7 inches (221 mm) |
| Suspension | Front: MacPherson-type struts, Rear: Double wishbone |
| Brakes | Front and rear disc brakes |
| Steering | Electric Power-Assisted Rack-and-Pinion |
| Fuel Type | Regular unleaded |
| Seating Capacity | 5 passengers |
| Cargo Volume (Behind Rear Seats) | Approximately 35.4 cubic feet |
| Cargo Volume (Max. Rear Seats Folded) | Approximately 76.1 cubic feet |
| Towing Capacity | Up to 1,500 pounds |
