Does the Subaru Forester have enough horsepower?

Yes for most drivers. The current US-spec Forester with a 2.5-liter engine produces 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque, which is ample for daily driving, highway merging, and family duty. It isn’t a speed-focused SUV, but its power is generally sufficient for normal use.

To understand where that horsepower fits, it helps to look at how the Forester performs in everyday scenarios, what the numbers mean for acceleration and towing, and what options exist if you’re seeking more spirited performance from Subaru or neighboring models.

What horsepower means for Forester driving

Before exploring the practical implications, here are the core performance figures and how they translate to real-world use:

• Engine: 2.5-liter four-cylinder producing 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque.


• Drivetrain: Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) for smooth, consistent power delivery.


• Acceleration: 0-60 mph generally in the neighborhood of 8.9–9.5 seconds, depending on year, trim, and tires.


• Towing: Up to 1,500 pounds when properly equipped, which covers light trailers, small campers, and some utility use.


• Fuel economy: Generally in the mid-20s to around 30 mpg range combined, varying with tires, trim, and driving conditions.

In daily driving, these figures translate to confident highway merging, steady passing power on two-lane roads, and predictable, all-weather capability thanks to AWD. It’s not a sport SUV, but the Forester prioritizes practicality and efficiency over scorching acceleration.

Is there more power available if I want it?

For buyers who want noticeably more punch, there are a few paths to consider within Subaru’s lineup or nearby options—though the Forester itself does not currently offer a turbocharged engine in the United States.

• Outback turbo option: The Subaru Outback offers a turbocharged 2.4-liter engine that produces about 260 horsepower and higher torque, delivering significantly quicker acceleration and stronger highway passing ability compared with the Forester.


• Market variations: Some overseas markets have offered hybrid or alternative powertrains for the Forester, but the U.S. lineup has not included a turbo or plug-in hybrid Forester through recent model years.


• Used or older generations: If you’re set on a turbo Subaru within the Forester family, older Forester XT models (from prior generations) did feature turbocharged engines, but they are no longer sold new in the U.S. today and would require used purchase and careful verification.

For those who genuinely want more horsepower without leaving Subaru, the Outback is the closest practical option in the current lineup, offering a robust turbocharged powertrain with substantially more horsepower and torque for faster highway overtakes and confident climbs.

Summary

Overall, the Forester’s 182-horsepower engine is adequate for most daily needs, including family transport, commuting, and light towing, with efficient and steady all-wheel-drive performance. If you crave stronger acceleration and higher highway confidence, consider the Outback’s turbocharged option or explore older turbo Forester models on the used market. In the current US lineup, the Forester remains a practical, well-rounded choice rather than a power-focused performer.

Is the Subaru 2.5 Turbo a good engine?

New Subaru 2.5 engines are reliable, although people have mixed feelings and results with CVT transmissions. The problem with older EJ25 engines is that fluids would sit and rest against the shear line where the manifold meets the block - which is normal for boxer engines.

Which is more reliable, the Toyota RAV4 or the Subaru Forester?

The Toyota RAV4 generally has a reputation for higher long-term reliability than the Subaru Forester, with lower average annual repair costs and less frequent, severe repairs. However, the Subaru Forester has a strong reputation and a higher rating from Consumer Reports and J.D. Power, particularly with the newer models. Both are considered good choices, and recent model years of the Forester have been redesigned to be more reliable. 
You can watch this video to learn about the reliability of RAV4 and Forester: 1mAutomotive Anonymous YouTube · Dec 14, 2024
Toyota RAV4

• Higher reliability rating: Often ranks higher in reliability surveys and has lower average annual repair costs. 
• Longer-term ownership: Has a strong reputation for minimizing long-term issues and frequent maintenance, partly due to its engine technology and hybrid options. 
• Lower repair costs: Has an average annual repair cost of $429, which is significantly lower than the Forester's $632. 

Subaru Forester

• Strong safety and ratings: Earned a higher overall rating from Consumer Reports and a highest-tier safety rating from the IIHS. 
• Improving reliability: Recent redesigns have made reliability improvements, such as reintroducing mechanical thermostats and eliminating less reliable systems. 
• Average repair costs: Has an average annual repair cost of $632 and average frequency and severity of repairs compared to other vehicles. 

Which one is right for you?

• Choose the RAV4 if: Your priority is maximum long-term reliability and the lowest ownership costs, especially over many years of ownership. 
• Choose the Forester if: You want a vehicle with a strong safety record, good visibility, and a capable all-wheel-drive system. You should consider the model year, as reliability has been improving with recent redesigns. 

This video compares the performance and features of RAV4 and Forester: 52sAutoMobiYouTube · Oct 30, 2025

How much horsepower does a 2.5 L Forester have?

Standard Engine for the Subaru Forester
This standard powertrain is a 2.5L Subaru BOXER 4-cylinder engine designed to make this compact SUV incredibly fun to drive. With this engine, the Forester gets 180 hp and 178 lb-ft of torque, ensuring you have a great time on the road daily.

What is the weakness of a Subaru Forester?

Oil Consumption
Many drivers have reported that they need to get their oil changed more frequently than they have had to in other cars. This is likely due to oil cracks or leaks in the camshaft and crankshaft seals as well as the oil pump seal.