When it comes to purchasing a vehicle, making an informed decision can be a daunting task, especially when faced with multiple trim levels of the same model. The Subaru Forester, a popular choice among car enthusiasts, offers two distinct trim levels: the L and S. While both trims share a common foundation, they differ in several key areas that might make or break your purchasing decision. In this article, we’ll delve into the differences between the Subaru Forester L and S, helping you make a well-informed choice.
Exterior Design and Features
At first glance, the Subaru Forester L and S may appear identical, but look closer, and you’ll notice some subtle yet significant differences.
Wheels and Tires
The Subaru Forester L comes equipped with 17-inch steel wheels with silver finish, while the S trim boasts 18-inch alloy wheels with a striking black finish. This upgrades the overall appearance of the vehicle and provides better handling and responsiveness. Additionally, the S trim features 225/60R18 all-season tires, which offer improved grip and traction compared to the 225/65R17 tires found on the L trim.
LED Headlights
The Subaru Forester S features upgraded LED headlights, which provide improved visibility and illumination, especially during nighttime driving. These advanced headlights are equipped with a unique LED daytime running light design, further enhancing the vehicle’s appearance. In contrast, the L trim comes with traditional halogen headlights.
Chrome Accents and Spoiler
The S trim incorporates chrome accents on the exterior door handles, adding a touch of sophistication to the overall design. Furthermore, the S trim features a rear spoiler, which not only enhances the vehicle’s aerodynamics but also gives it a sportier appearance.
Interior Features and Comfort
Step inside, and you’ll notice distinct differences between the Subaru Forester L and S trims that cater to varying levels of comfort and convenience.
Upholstery and Seating
The Subaru Forester L features cloth upholstery, providing a comfortable yet practical interior. In contrast, the S trim boasts premium leather-trimmed upholstery, complete with contrast stitching and silver accents, elevating the overall ambiance of the cabin. Additionally, the S trim offers heated front seats, ensuring cozy warmth during chilly days.
Infotainment and Audio
The Subaru Forester L comes with a 6.5-inch touchscreen display, featuring Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, as well as a 4-speaker audio system. The S trim takes it a step further with a 8-inch touchscreen display, accompanied by an 8-speaker Harman Kardon premium audio system, providing an immersive listening experience.
Convenience Features
The Subaru Forester S trim offers a range of convenience features not found on the L trim, including:
- Power adjustable driver’s seat with memory function
- Auto-dimming rearview mirror with Homelink
- Auto-on/off headlights
Safety and Performance
When it comes to safety and performance, both trims share some common features, but the S trim takes the lead in several areas.
Safety Features
Both trims come equipped with Subaru’s renowned EyeSight driver-assist system, which includes features like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and sway warning. However, the S trim adds:
- Blind-spot detection and rear cross-traffic alert
- Reverse automatic braking
Performance
Under the hood, both trims feature a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine, producing 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque. However, the S trim benefits from a more responsive and agile ride thanks to its:
- Tuned suspension, providing improved handling and stability
- Active torque vectoring, which enhances cornering and overall driving dynamics
Warranty and Maintenance
While both trims offer a comprehensive warranty and maintenance package, the S trim provides some added benefits.
Warranty
The Subaru Forester comes with a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. The S trim adds a 5-year/60,000-mile Corrosion Perforation Limited Warranty, providing additional peace of mind.
Maintenance
The S trim benefits from Subaru’s maintenance package, which includes scheduled maintenance for 2 years or 24,000 miles, whichever comes first. This package covers routine maintenance tasks, such as oil changes, tire rotations, and inspections.
Price and Value
As expected, the Subaru Forester S trim comes at a premium price compared to the L trim. However, considering the added features, improved performance, and enhanced driving experience, the S trim offers excellent value for those willing to invest in a more premium vehicle.
| Trim | Price (Starting MSRP) |
|---|---|
| Forester L | $25,145 |
| Forester S | $28,445 |
Conclusion
The Subaru Forester L and S trims cater to different needs and preferences. The L trim offers a practical, feature-packed vehicle at an attractive price point, while the S trim provides a more premium experience, complete with upgraded features, improved performance, and enhanced comfort.
When deciding between the two trims, consider your priorities:
- If budget is a primary concern, and you’re looking for a reliable, feature-rich vehicle, the L trim might be the way to go.
- If you’re willing to invest in a more premium driving experience, complete with upgraded features, improved performance, and enhanced comfort, the S trim is the clear winner.
Ultimately, both trims offer an excellent blend of functionality, safety, and performance, making the Subaru Forester a top contender in the compact SUV market.
What are the key differences between the Subaru Forester L and S?
The Subaru Forester L and S are two trims of the popular Forester model, but they have distinct features that set them apart. The Forester L is the base model, offering a more affordable entry point into the Forester family. It comes with a more limited set of features, but still provides the same all-wheel-drive capability and boxer engine as the higher trims. The Forester S, on the other hand, is a more premium offering, with a focus on sportiness and advanced technology.
In terms of exterior design, the Forester S gets a more aggressive look with unique bumpers, wheels, and trim pieces. Inside, it features more premium materials, additional safety features, and a more advanced infotainment system. The Forester S also gets a more powerful engine, with a boost in horsepower and torque. These differences in features and design make the Forester S a more desirable option for those who want a more premium driving experience.
Does the Forester L come with all-wheel drive?
Yes, the Forester L comes with all-wheel drive as standard, just like every other trim in the Forester lineup. Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system is one of the key selling points of the Forester, and it’s designed to provide maximum traction and control on any road surface. The system sends power to all four wheels simultaneously, giving the Forester L the ability to handle inclement weather and rough terrain with ease.
The all-wheel-drive system is paired with the boxer engine, which provides a lower center of gravity and improved balance. This combination makes the Forester L a capable and confident vehicle, whether you’re driving on the highway or venturing off the beaten path. With all-wheel drive as standard, the Forester L is a great option for those who need a vehicle that can handle a variety of driving conditions.
Is the Forester S worth the extra cost?
Whether or not the Forester S is worth the extra cost depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a more premium driving experience, with advanced technology and safety features, then the Forester S may be worth the upgrade. The S trim offers a more powerful engine, unique design elements, and a more advanced infotainment system, which may be important to some buyers.
On the other hand, if you’re on a tighter budget and don’t need all the bells and whistles, the Forester L may be a more cost-effective option. The L trim still offers the same all-wheel-drive capability and boxer engine as the S trim, but with a more limited set of features. Ultimately, it comes down to your individual priorities and what you’re willing to pay for.
Can I customize my Forester L or S?
Yes, both the Forester L and S can be customized to suit your individual tastes and needs. Subaru offers a range of options and packages that can be added to either trim, including interior and exterior accessories, as well as advanced safety features. You can choose from a variety of interior trim materials, upholstery options, and wheel designs to create a unique look that reflects your personal style.
In addition to the options available from Subaru, you can also consider aftermarket accessories and modifications to further customize your Forester. This could include adding a roof rack or cargo carrier, upgrading the suspension or wheels, or installing a performance exhaust system. With a little creativity and imagination, you can turn your Forester into a truly one-of-a-kind vehicle.
How do the safety features of the Forester L and S compare?
Both the Forester L and S come with a range of standard safety features, including seven airbags, a rearview camera, and Subaru’s EyeSight driver-assist system. However, the Forester S offers some additional advanced safety features, including blind-spot detection, lane-change assist, and rear cross-traffic alert.
The Forester S also gets a more advanced version of EyeSight, with features like adaptive cruise control and lane-centering. These features are designed to help prevent accidents and reduce driver fatigue on long road trips. While the Forester L still offers a robust set of safety features, the S trim provides an extra layer of protection and peace of mind.
What are the fuel economy ratings for the Forester L and S?
The fuel economy ratings for the Forester L and S are identical, with an estimated 24 mpg in the city, 32 mpg on the highway, and 27 mpg combined. This is due to the fact that both trims share the same engine and transmission, with the only difference being the more powerful engine tune in the S trim.
Despite the more powerful engine in the S trim, the fuel economy ratings remain the same, making it a great option for those who want a more premium driving experience without sacrificing fuel efficiency. The Forester’s fuel economy ratings are also competitive with other vehicles in its class, making it a great choice for those who prioritize fuel efficiency.
Are there any unique features that set the Forester S apart?
One of the key features that sets the Forester S apart is its unique design elements, including a sport-themed front fascia, 18-inch wheels, and a more aggressive rear bumper. The S trim also gets a more premium interior, with features like heated seats, a power moonroof, and a more advanced infotainment system.
The Forester S also gets a more powerful engine, with a boost in horsepower and torque. This gives the S trim a more responsive and engaging driving experience, making it a great option for those who enjoy driving. Additionally, the S trim offers a more advanced all-wheel-drive system, with features like X-Mode and Hill Descent Control, which provide improved traction and control in a variety of driving conditions.