chippy17

Worth buying, reliability wise? I guess the same as Impreza re servicing costs etc. Have seen a 2.0GLS with all the bits with 110k on the clock, not really interested in Turbos, have Impreza for fun, but do need the 4x4 and the high but not SUV ground clearance appeals.
Thanks

Microstar

I believe the Forester is basically the Impreza 'on stilts'

I think the older N/A Forester is a bit sluggish (130bhp or so), but the post-2005 models have the 4-cam NA engine which puts out around 160bhp which is not too far behind the 'old model' Forester turbo - so plenty quick enough for that kind of car.
Insurance will be cheaper on a non-turbo and I guess reliabillity will be even better since the engine is under less stress. Not to mention somewhat better fuel economy.

[Davey]

I drove a few 2.0 turbos a while back because I fancied one.. DOG AWFUL car IMHO.. and would be useless offroad.... I bought a late spec Frontera Limited in the end which is basically an ISUZU Rodeo with vauxhall badges.. Its a **** load cheaper than the forester to buy and insure and now I've Jacked it up 3.5" and fitted some nobbly tyres, its pretty much un-stoppable offroad..

chippy17

many thanks for your replies, food for thought