What are the features of the 2023 Subaru Forester? 

The 2023 Subaru Forester has emerged as a top pick for consumers in the compact SUV market. Like its Subaru kin, the 2023 Forester delivers industry-leading performance, durability, and safety. The 2023 Subaru Forester is powered by the highly acclaimed boxer engine mated to the legendary symmetrical AWD system with X-MODE technology.  The Forester now is equipped with the latest technology in Subaru's Intelligent Drive advanced engine management system. The 2023 Subaru Forester features:
  • Subaru's EyeSight technology
  • Roof spoiler
  • Raised roof rails
  • LED steering responsive headlights with auto on/off feature
  • 17- or 18-in. aluminum alloy wheels fitted with all-season tires
  • Heated black, body-color, or satin chrome side mirrors with integrated turn signals
  • Power rear gate with automatic close, height memory function, and vehicle lock button
  • SUBARU STARLINK® Multimedia system 
It is important to note that Subaru's compact SUV is top-rated as one of the lowest cost to own SUVs on the market today. The 2023 Subaru Forester has proven itself as a daily commuter that outperforms its competitors when adverse weather conditions arise.  It is also well equipped to travel off the pavement to and off-road weekend getaway.  

What is Comparable to the Subaru Forester? 

The Subaru Forester shares the market with several formidable opponents in the compact SUV market. Its top competitors are the Kia Sportage, Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Nissan Rogue, and the Mazda CX-5 for starters.  The Forester outpaces its fellow compact SUVs in its durability, safety, and economy.  Subaru has manufactured a vehicle that is tried and true, and can meet nearly all of today's drivers' needs.

What is bigger, the Kia Sportage or Subaru Forester?

The Kia Sportage and the Subaru share a similar footprint on the road.  Both vehicles are nearly the same length; however, the Kia has a much wider stance than the Subaru.  While this may have visual appeal for some, the width of the Sportage can be troublesome in regards to parking and turning radius.

Both vehicles are designed similarly and can fit the same number of passengers.  The Subaru Forester has the edge in both legroom and headroom over the Kia.  For taller drivers, the Subaru is more accommodating.  Cargo space is also quite comparable, but the Subaru is outfitted with a number of storage solutions and also an innovative raised roof rail system to handle more of your gear.

Is the Subaru Forester a reliable car?

The Subaru Forester's reliability is renowned in the automotive industry. Consumer Reports named the 2023 Subaru Forester as number one in its class for IIHS safety scores, reliability, road-test performance, and owner satisfaction.  Subaru's standard all-wheel drive system is the apex in reliability and drivers' confidence.  In conjunction with reliable performance, the 2023 Subaru Forester is also superior in reliable safety.  It carries the distinction of the IIHS Top Safety Pick and the NHTSA five-star rating.  No other vehicle can compare to the Subaru Forester's reliability. 

 


What are the Downsides of a Kia Sportage?

The Kia Sportage has undergone a significant overhaul for 2023 in an attempt to take down the industry leading Subaru Forester.  Although Kia has made some great strides in the Sportage's upgrades, the manufacturer fell short of surpassing the Subaru in several areas.  The first downside of the Sportage is the cost associated with adding AWD and turbo packages.  Adding AWD to the Kia is an additional $1,800 to the price, and to add the turbo engine, one should plan to spend nearly $10,000 over the base price. The Kia Sportage also has poor fuel economy; especially, when compared to the Subaru. The Sportage also lacked ample ground clearance for off the grid treks, cramped cargo area, and what some reviews called frustrating on-screen controls for infotainment and HVAC functions.  Kia's plug-in hybrid model also revealed the Sportage's downside as it only maintained a weak 34-mile all-electric range.

Which is better, the Kia Sportage or the Subaru Forester?

 Kia may have used its recent redesign to offer up a more stylish appearance, but the Forester, as it has time and time again, maintains a strong upper hand over its competitor. While both vehicles shared nearly identical horsepower and torque, the Forester outperformed the Sportage in handling.  The Kia's large turning radius was its pitfall.  The Subaru also maintains the lead in fuel economy. 

The last great consideration between these compact SUVs is cost.  At first glance, the Kia holds a slight advantage of being approximately $1000 less in comparable models.  However, when we break down ownership costs that include maintenance, repair, fuel, and insurance, the Subaru Forester significantly outpaces the Kia Sportage.  After the dust settled, the 2023 Subaru Forester drove away with the crown.

Come see for Yourself Why the Subaru Forester is So Popular!

If you are in the market for a new compact SUV, consider joining the Subaru family and experiencing Subaru's tenet:  "Love. It's What Makes a Subaru a Subaru." Speak with one of our friendly staff to schedule your test drive of the 2023 Subaru Forester or stop by Rafferty Subaru on West Chester Pike in Newtown Square to see for yourself.   



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Rafferty Subaru

4700 West Chester Pike
Directions Newtown Square, PA 19073

  • Sales: 484-588-6229
  • Service: 484-534-4984
  • Parts: 484-534-4970

Hours

  • Monday 9am - 8pm
  • Tuesday 9am - 8pm
  • Wednesday 9am - 8pm
  • Thursday 9am - 8pm
  • Friday 9am - 8pm
  • Saturday 9am - 5pm
  • Sunday Closed