2021 Subaru Forester Sport: Review, Specs, And More

by Alex Braham 52 views

Let's dive into the 2021 Subaru Forester Sport, guys! This car is a blend of practicality and a touch of sporty flair, making it a popular choice for many. In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about this model, from its performance and features to its pros and cons. Buckle up, and let’s get started!

Overview of the 2021 Subaru Forester Sport

The 2021 Subaru Forester Sport is a trim level of the ever-popular Subaru Forester, known for its reliability, safety, and off-road capabilities. The Sport trim adds a unique aesthetic and some enhanced features to set it apart from the base models. Think of it as the Forester's slightly cooler, more athletic sibling. It retains all the qualities that make the Forester a great SUV while injecting a bit more personality into the mix.

Key Features of the 2021 Forester Sport

  • Exterior Design: The Sport trim stands out with its dark gray exterior accents, including the grille, rear spoiler, and side mirrors. It also features unique 18-inch black alloy wheels that add to its sporty stance.
  • Interior Comfort: Inside, you’ll find dark gray upholstery with orange stitching, which gives the cabin a distinctive and modern feel. The seats are comfortable and supportive, making it great for long drives.
  • Technology: The 2021 Forester Sport comes standard with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto integration. It also includes Subaru's EyeSight driver-assist technology, enhancing safety on the road.
  • Performance: Under the hood, the Forester Sport is powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 182 horsepower. It’s paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and Subaru’s symmetrical all-wheel-drive system, providing excellent traction and stability.

Performance and Handling

When it comes to performance, the 2021 Subaru Forester Sport offers a balanced driving experience. The 2.5-liter engine provides adequate power for daily commuting and highway driving. While it’s not the fastest SUV on the market, it offers smooth and predictable acceleration. The CVT helps to maximize fuel efficiency, making it an economical choice for many drivers.

Engine and Transmission

The heart of the Forester Sport is its 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque. This engine is designed for reliability and efficiency, rather than outright speed. The CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) is programmed to simulate gear changes, which helps to reduce the droning sound often associated with CVTs. This makes for a more pleasant driving experience, especially on long journeys. The combination of the engine and transmission ensures a smooth and responsive ride, perfect for both city streets and open highways.

All-Wheel Drive

One of the standout features of the Subaru Forester Sport is its symmetrical all-wheel-drive system. This system provides excellent traction in various weather conditions, from rain and snow to gravel and dirt. It distributes power evenly to all four wheels, enhancing stability and control. This makes the Forester Sport a confident choice for drivers who frequently encounter challenging road conditions. Whether you're navigating snowy mountain passes or muddy trails, the all-wheel-drive system has got your back.

Ride Quality and Handling

The ride quality of the 2021 Subaru Forester Sport is generally comfortable, thanks to its well-tuned suspension. It absorbs bumps and imperfections in the road with ease, providing a smooth and composed ride. The steering is light and responsive, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces. While it's not a sports car, the Forester Sport handles corners with confidence, thanks to its stable chassis and well-balanced weight distribution. Overall, the driving experience is predictable and enjoyable, making it a great choice for everyday use.

Interior and Comfort

Stepping inside the 2021 Subaru Forester Sport, you'll immediately notice the attention to detail and the comfortable, functional design. The interior is designed to be both practical and stylish, with features that enhance the overall driving experience. From the supportive seats to the user-friendly technology, the Forester Sport aims to provide a pleasant environment for both the driver and passengers.

Seating and Upholstery

The seats in the Forester Sport are designed for comfort, with ample cushioning and support. The dark gray upholstery with orange stitching adds a touch of sporty flair to the cabin. The front seats offer good adjustability, allowing drivers of all sizes to find a comfortable position. The rear seats are also spacious, providing plenty of legroom and headroom for passengers. The rear seats can also be reclined for added comfort on long trips. The combination of comfortable seating and stylish upholstery makes the interior a welcoming place to be.

Infotainment System

The 2021 Subaru Forester Sport comes standard with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system. This system is user-friendly and responsive, with clear graphics and intuitive menus. It includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, allowing you to seamlessly connect your smartphone and access your favorite apps. The infotainment system also includes features like Bluetooth connectivity, USB ports, and a rearview camera. The sound system delivers decent audio quality, making it enjoyable to listen to music or podcasts while on the road. Overall, the infotainment system is well-equipped and easy to use, enhancing the overall driving experience.

Cargo Space

One of the Forester's strengths is its generous cargo space. With the rear seats up, it offers 31.1 cubic feet of cargo volume. When the rear seats are folded down, the cargo space expands to 76.1 cubic feet. This is more than enough room for groceries, luggage, or outdoor gear. The wide rear opening and low load floor make it easy to load and unload items. The Forester Sport also includes tie-down hooks and cargo nets to help secure your belongings. Whether you're hauling camping equipment or transporting bulky items, the Forester Sport has the space you need.

Safety Features

Subaru has always been committed to safety, and the 2021 Subaru Forester Sport is no exception. It comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features designed to protect you and your passengers. From advanced driver-assist technologies to robust construction, the Forester Sport prioritizes safety in every aspect of its design.

EyeSight Driver-Assist Technology

The EyeSight system includes features like adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and lane-keeping assist. Adaptive cruise control automatically adjusts your speed to maintain a safe following distance from the vehicle ahead. Automatic emergency braking can detect potential collisions and apply the brakes to mitigate or avoid an accident. Lane departure warning alerts you if you start to drift out of your lane, while lane-keeping assist can gently steer you back into your lane. These technologies work together to enhance your awareness and help prevent accidents.

Blind-Spot Detection and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert

In addition to the EyeSight system, the Forester Sport also includes blind-spot detection and rear cross-traffic alert. Blind-spot detection monitors the areas beside and behind your vehicle and alerts you if there is a vehicle in your blind spot. Rear cross-traffic alert warns you of approaching vehicles when you're backing out of a parking space or driveway. These features can help you avoid accidents in common driving situations. By providing additional information about your surroundings, these technologies can make you a safer and more confident driver.

Overall Safety Ratings

The 2021 Subaru Forester has received excellent safety ratings from both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). It has earned a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ designation from IIHS. These ratings reflect the Forester's robust construction and comprehensive suite of safety features. With its strong safety performance, the Forester Sport provides peace of mind for you and your family.

Pros and Cons

Before making a decision, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons of the 2021 Subaru Forester Sport. This will help you determine if it’s the right vehicle for your needs and preferences. Let's break it down:

Pros

  • Standard All-Wheel Drive: Provides excellent traction and stability in various weather conditions.
  • Spacious Interior: Offers plenty of room for passengers and cargo.
  • User-Friendly Technology: The infotainment system is easy to use and includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration.
  • Excellent Safety Ratings: The Forester has received top safety scores from NHTSA and IIHS.
  • Sporty Styling: The Sport trim adds unique exterior and interior accents for a more distinctive look.

Cons

  • Engine Performance: The 2.5-liter engine is adequate but not particularly powerful.
  • CVT Transmission: Some drivers may not like the feel of the CVT compared to a traditional automatic transmission.
  • Fuel Economy: While decent, the fuel economy is not class-leading.
  • Base Price: The Forester Sport can be a bit more expensive than some of its competitors.
  • Road Noise: Some drivers have noted that road noise can be noticeable at higher speeds.

Conclusion

The 2021 Subaru Forester Sport is a well-rounded SUV that offers a blend of practicality, safety, and sporty styling. It’s an excellent choice for those who need a reliable and capable vehicle for daily commuting and weekend adventures. While it may not be the most powerful or fuel-efficient SUV on the market, it excels in other areas, such as safety, interior space, and all-wheel-drive capability. If you’re looking for a versatile and dependable SUV, the Forester Sport is definitely worth considering. So there you have it – a comprehensive look at the 2021 Subaru Forester Sport. Happy driving, guys!