What kind of suspension does a Subaru Forester have?
The Forester uses a MacPherson strut front suspension paired with an independent rear suspension, typically a multi-link design in newer generations. Exact details can vary by model year and trim.
In this article, we break down the front and rear suspension layouts, how they influence ride and handling, and what to expect across different Forester generations.
Front suspension
The following points describe the common front-suspension setup found on most Forester models.
- Type: MacPherson strut suspension
- Components: coil springs and a single lower control arm with an associated steering knuckle
- Role: independent wheel movement to keep tires in contact with the road for better grip and steering response
Overall, the MacPherson front setup provides a compact, space-efficient package that suits the Forester’s crossover design while supporting confident steering and ride quality.
Impact on ride and handling
MacPherson struts are known for simplicity and good straight-line stability, which translates to predictable steering feel and resilient handling on varied pavement. In the Forester, this pairing helps balance ride comfort with road feedback, especially when paired with all-wheel drive.
Rear suspension
The following points describe the common rear-suspension setup found on most Forester models.
- Type: independent rear suspension
- Configuration: often a multi-link design (five-link or similar) for improved wheel articulation
- Role: absorbs bumps and maintains tire contact across irregular surfaces, aiding ride comfort and stability
With an independent rear suspension, the Forester can better isolate occupants from road imperfections while preserving good handling characteristics in corners and on rough roads.
Ride quality and stability
A multi-link-style rear suspension allows each wheel to respond to road conditions independently, which enhances overall ride smoothness and helps keep the vehicle stable during turns and over patches of uneven pavement.
Model-year variations and platform notes
While the general layout remains front MacPherson struts and independent rear suspension, specifics can shift with generations and platform updates. Subaru’s newer platforms have aimed to improve rigidity, ride quality, and handling without compromising AWD capability.
- General configuration: MacPherson front, independent rear suspension across most Forester generations
- Platform evolution: later Forester models have benefited from Subaru Global Platform improvements that enhance stiffness and ride feel
- Trim-level or year differences: minor variations may exist in mounting geometry or tuning, but the basic layout remains consistent
For exact suspension details, consult the owner’s manual or a service bulletin for the specific model year and trim in question.
Summary
In brief, a Subaru Forester typically combines a MacPherson strut front suspension with an independent rear suspension, usually a multi-link arrangement in recent generations. This setup supports the vehicle’s all-wheel-drive system, offers balanced ride comfort, and provides predictable handling on a variety of road surfaces. If you need the precise configuration for a particular year or trim, verify with the official specs or the vehicle’s documentation.
