Whats the difference between a Forester Premium and Forester Limited?
Short answer: Forester Limited adds more upscale interior, technology, and comfort features on top of what Forester Premium provides, while core powertrain and safety systems are largely shared. Exact equipment can vary by model year and market, so verify current specs with a dealer or Subaru’s official resources.
Shared mechanicals and safety tech
The two trims sit on the same fundamental platform, offering a consistent core driving experience and safety architecture. This means most buyers won’t find a difference in how the car drives or what it can do in adverse weather, aside from feature distinctions.
Powertrain and safety baseline
- Engine and transmission: 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT); all-wheel drive is standard across both trims.
- Safety tech: EyeSight Driver Assist Technology is standard on Premium and Limited in recent model years, providing features such as adaptive cruise control, pre-collision braking, lane-keeping assist, and other driver aids.
In short, Premium and Limited share the same drivetrain and core safety tech, so differences are mainly about trim-level equipment rather than performance.
Interior and comfort
The biggest contrasts between Premium and Limited appear inside the cabin, where Limited is designed to feel more premium and comfortable.
Seating and materials
- Upholstery: Premium typically uses cloth seating; Limited moves up to leather-trimmed seats in most model years.
- Seat adjustability: Premium commonly offers a manually adjustable front driver’s seat, while Limited generally includes a power-adjustable driver’s seat (often with additional adjustments or memory in higher configurations).
Overall, Limited aims to deliver a more luxurious seating experience and greater customization of the driving position.
Technology and infotainment
Tech upgrades are a core differentiator, with Limited generally adding a more feature-rich infotainment and audio setup.
Display, audio and navigation
- Infotainment screen: Premium provides a capable touchscreen with smartphone integration (Apple CarPlay and Android Auto); Limited often includes a larger display and, depending on the year, enhanced audio options.
- Navigation and premium audio: Limited trims are more likely to include built-in navigation (as part of certain packages or year-specific configurations) and may offer a higher-end audio system (for example, Harman Kardon in some years).
If you value a bigger screen or premium audio, the Limited is the more likely choice.
Exterior features and convenience
Exterior upgrades and convenience amenities tend to tilt toward Limited as the more premium package, with certain niceties bundled in or available as options.
Wheels, lighting, and cargo convenience
- Wheels: Premium commonly comes with standard-sized alloy wheels (often 17 inches); Limited frequently upgrades to larger wheels (often 18 inches) for a more assertive look and ride feel.
- Sunroof and liftgate: Limited is more likely to include a power sunroof and, in many years, a power-operated rear liftgate for easier cargo access.
- Other convenience items: Limited may also include features such as a more advanced keyless entry system, and, depending on year, a hands-free or programmable power tailgate.
In practice, Limited outfits the Forester with more premium exterior and convenience touches compared with Premium.
Pricing and model-year caveats
Because Subaru periodically updates trim packages, equipment, and standard features, the exact differences can shift from year to year and by market. Always compare the current spec sheet for the model year you’re considering, including optional packages that might blur the line between trims.
Summary
Forester Premium and Forester Limited share the same engine, CVT, and all-wheel-drive platform, along with core safety tech. The Limited distinguishes itself with a more upscale interior (leather seating, power driver’s seat), enhanced comfort and convenience features (sunroof, possible power liftgate), and upgraded infotainment/audio options. If you want a step up in luxury and tech without changing the underlying drivetrain, Limited is the clear choice; if you’re looking to save, Premium still delivers solid comfort and capability with most of the same safety fundamentals. Always verify the exact feature set for your model year and region before buying.
