2023 Subaru Forester Sport: Review, Specs, And More

Nov 19, 2025 by Alex Braham 52 views

2023 Subaru Forester Sport: A Comprehensive Review

Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the 2023 Subaru Forester Sport, a vehicle that perfectly blends practicality with a touch of sporty flair. If you're in the market for a compact SUV that's reliable, capable, and fun to drive, the Forester Sport might just be the perfect fit for you. Let's explore what makes this car stand out from the crowd.

Overview of the 2023 Subaru Forester Sport

The 2023 Subaru Forester Sport is designed to appeal to those who want a little extra zest in their daily drive. It builds upon the already impressive Forester lineup with unique styling cues, enhanced features, and a confident, athletic stance. The Forester has long been celebrated for its safety, reliability, and off-road capability, and the Sport trim adds a layer of visual appeal and distinct character. This model year continues to uphold Subaru's reputation for delivering vehicles that are as practical as they are enjoyable. For many drivers, the Sport trim strikes a sweet spot, offering a balance of features and affordability that makes it a compelling option in the crowded compact SUV segment. It’s a car that doesn’t just get you from point A to point B; it does so with a touch of style and a promise of adventure. Whether you're navigating city streets or exploring winding country roads, the 2023 Forester Sport offers a driving experience that’s both engaging and comfortable, making it an excellent choice for families, adventurers, and anyone in between.

Exterior Styling and Design

When it comes to exterior styling, the 2023 Subaru Forester Sport makes a bold statement. The Sport trim stands out with its distinctive black accents, which include the grille, side mirrors, and rear spoiler, giving it a more aggressive and athletic appearance. The dark gray 18-inch alloy wheels further enhance its sporty look, providing a striking contrast against the available paint colors. One of the most noticeable features is the unique Sport badging, which lets everyone know you’re driving something special. The black finish extends to the roof rails, adding to the cohesive and stylish design. LED fog lights are also standard, not only improving visibility but also contributing to the Forester Sport's modern aesthetic. The overall design is both functional and eye-catching, ensuring that the Forester Sport looks great whether it's parked in your driveway or tackling a rugged trail. The attention to detail in the exterior design sets the Sport apart from other trims in the Forester lineup, making it a visually appealing option for those who want their SUV to reflect their active lifestyle. This trim level doesn’t just blend in; it makes a statement with its confident and sporty presence. From the bold front fascia to the sleek rear spoiler, every element of the exterior design has been carefully considered to create a vehicle that looks as good as it performs. The 2023 Subaru Forester Sport is a testament to Subaru's commitment to combining practicality with style, making it a standout choice in the competitive compact SUV market.

Interior Features and Comfort

Stepping inside the 2023 Subaru Forester Sport, you'll immediately notice the thoughtful design that prioritizes both comfort and functionality. The cabin is spacious, offering ample room for both passengers and cargo. Sport-specific interior elements, such as the dark gray and black upholstery with orange stitching, add a touch of sportiness that complements the exterior styling. The seats are designed for long-distance comfort, providing excellent support whether you're on a daily commute or a weekend road trip. The leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob add a premium feel to the interior, enhancing the overall driving experience. Technology is also a key focus, with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system serving as the central hub for navigation, entertainment, and vehicle settings. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration are standard, allowing seamless connectivity with your smartphone. The Forester Sport also includes features like a premium audio system, ensuring a high-quality listening experience for all occupants. Climate control is efficient and easy to use, maintaining a comfortable cabin temperature regardless of the weather outside. Visibility is excellent, thanks to the Forester's high seating position and large windows, making it easy to navigate in various driving conditions. Overall, the interior of the 2023 Subaru Forester Sport is a welcoming and well-appointed space that makes every journey a pleasure. The combination of sporty design elements, comfortable seating, and advanced technology creates an environment that's both practical and enjoyable for drivers and passengers alike. It’s a space where you can relax and enjoy the ride, no matter where the road takes you.

Performance and Handling

Let's talk about performance! The 2023 Subaru Forester Sport is powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque. While this might not sound like a massive amount of power, it's more than adequate for everyday driving and provides confident acceleration when you need it. Subaru's legendary Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive is standard, ensuring excellent traction and stability in various weather conditions. This is a major selling point for the Forester, making it a reliable choice for those who live in areas with snow or rain. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) is smooth and efficient, contributing to the Forester's impressive fuel economy. The Sport trim also includes Subaru's SI-Drive system, which allows you to switch between Intelligent and Sport modes, tailoring the vehicle's performance to your driving preferences. Handling is another area where the Forester Sport shines. The suspension is tuned to provide a comfortable ride without sacrificing agility. The steering is precise and responsive, making the Forester Sport feel confident and composed on winding roads. Off-road capability is also a strong suit, thanks to the all-wheel-drive system and generous ground clearance. The Forester Sport can handle light to moderate trails with ease, making it a great choice for weekend adventures. Overall, the 2023 Subaru Forester Sport offers a balanced and capable driving experience. It's not the fastest SUV on the market, but it provides the right amount of power, excellent handling, and the confidence-inspiring traction of all-wheel drive. Whether you're commuting to work or exploring off the beaten path, the Forester Sport is ready for the task. It’s a vehicle that delivers a driving experience that’s both enjoyable and practical, making it a standout choice in its class.

Engine and Transmission

Delving deeper into the engine and transmission, the 2023 Subaru Forester Sport features a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that strikes a balance between power and efficiency. This engine produces 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque, providing sufficient pep for daily driving scenarios. It’s an engine that’s known for its reliability and smooth operation, making it a dependable choice for a wide range of drivers. Paired with this engine is a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which is designed to optimize fuel economy and provide seamless gear transitions. The CVT contributes to the Forester Sport's impressive fuel efficiency, making it an economical choice for both city and highway driving. One of the standout features is Subaru's SI-Drive system, which allows drivers to select between Intelligent and Sport modes. Intelligent mode prioritizes fuel efficiency, while Sport mode sharpens throttle response and engine performance, providing a more engaging driving experience. This versatility allows drivers to tailor the vehicle's performance to their specific needs and preferences. The combination of the 2.5-liter engine and CVT delivers a driving experience that's both smooth and responsive. The engine provides adequate power for merging onto highways and passing other vehicles, while the CVT ensures that the engine is always operating at its most efficient. The SI-Drive system adds an extra layer of customization, allowing drivers to fine-tune the Forester Sport's performance to match their driving style. Overall, the engine and transmission in the 2023 Subaru Forester Sport are well-matched and provide a driving experience that’s both practical and enjoyable. It’s a powertrain that’s designed to deliver reliability, efficiency, and a touch of sportiness, making it a great fit for a wide range of drivers and driving conditions.

Fuel Economy

When it comes to fuel economy, the 2023 Subaru Forester Sport stands out as a practical choice in the compact SUV segment. The EPA estimates the Forester Sport to achieve up to 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway, making it an efficient option for both daily commutes and long road trips. These figures are particularly impressive considering that the Forester Sport comes standard with Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, which typically reduces fuel efficiency in other vehicles. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) also plays a crucial role in maximizing fuel economy, ensuring that the engine operates at its most efficient range. Subaru's engineering efforts to balance performance and efficiency are evident in these numbers, making the Forester Sport a smart choice for budget-conscious buyers. Real-world fuel economy often aligns closely with the EPA estimates, meaning drivers can expect consistent and predictable fuel costs. This reliability in fuel efficiency is a significant advantage for those who prioritize saving money at the pump. The Forester Sport's fuel economy makes it an attractive option for families, commuters, and anyone who puts a lot of miles on their vehicle. The combination of a fuel-efficient engine, a smooth-shifting CVT, and the added benefit of all-wheel drive makes the 2023 Subaru Forester Sport a standout in its class. It’s a vehicle that doesn’t compromise on performance while still delivering excellent fuel economy, making it a practical and economical choice for a wide range of drivers. Whether you're navigating city streets or cruising on the highway, the Forester Sport offers a fuel-efficient driving experience that's both cost-effective and environmentally friendly.

Technology and Safety Features

Subaru has always prioritized safety, and the 2023 Forester Sport is no exception. It comes standard with a suite of advanced safety features, including Subaru's EyeSight Driver Assist Technology. This system includes adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and lane keeping assist, all of which work together to help prevent accidents. The Forester Sport also features blind-spot detection with lane change assist and rear cross-traffic alert, adding an extra layer of safety when changing lanes or backing out of parking spaces. In terms of technology, the 2023 Forester Sport is equipped with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. This allows seamless integration with your smartphone, making it easy to access your favorite apps, music, and navigation. The infotainment system is user-friendly and responsive, providing a modern and convenient driving experience. Other tech features include a premium audio system, USB ports, and Bluetooth connectivity. The Forester Sport also offers available features such as a power rear gate, keyless access, and push-button start, adding to the convenience and comfort of the vehicle. The combination of advanced safety technologies and user-friendly tech features makes the 2023 Subaru Forester Sport a well-rounded and modern SUV. It’s a vehicle that prioritizes the safety and convenience of its occupants, making it a smart choice for families and anyone who values peace of mind on the road. From its advanced driver-assistance systems to its intuitive infotainment system, the Forester Sport is designed to enhance the driving experience and keep you connected and safe.

Advanced Safety Technologies

Focusing on the advanced safety technologies, the 2023 Subaru Forester Sport is equipped with a comprehensive suite of features designed to protect occupants and prevent accidents. Subaru’s EyeSight Driver Assist Technology is standard on the Sport trim, and it includes several key safety systems. Adaptive cruise control helps maintain a safe following distance from the vehicle ahead, automatically adjusting speed to match traffic flow. Automatic emergency braking can detect potential collisions and apply the brakes if the driver doesn’t respond in time, helping to mitigate or avoid accidents. Lane departure warning alerts the driver if the vehicle starts to drift out of its lane, while lane keeping assist can gently steer the vehicle back into its lane. These systems work together to provide a safety net for drivers, reducing the risk of collisions and enhancing overall driving safety. The Forester Sport also includes blind-spot detection with lane change assist, which monitors the areas around the vehicle and alerts the driver if there are vehicles in their blind spots. Rear cross-traffic alert is another valuable feature, particularly when backing out of parking spaces, as it warns the driver of approaching vehicles from the sides. In addition to these advanced systems, the Forester Sport also has standard safety features such as anti-lock brakes, stability control, and a full complement of airbags. Subaru's commitment to safety is evident in the comprehensive suite of safety technologies included in the 2023 Forester Sport. These features provide drivers with added confidence and peace of mind, knowing that they are protected by some of the most advanced safety systems available. From preventing accidents to mitigating their severity, the Forester Sport’s safety technologies make it a standout choice for safety-conscious buyers.

Infotainment and Connectivity

Looking at infotainment and connectivity, the 2023 Subaru Forester Sport offers a modern and user-friendly experience. The centerpiece of the infotainment system is an 8-inch touchscreen display, which provides intuitive access to navigation, entertainment, and vehicle settings. The touchscreen is responsive and easy to use, making it simple to control various functions while on the road. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration are standard, allowing seamless connectivity with your smartphone. This means you can easily access your favorite apps, music, and contacts directly from the infotainment screen. Bluetooth connectivity is also included, enabling hands-free calling and audio streaming. The Forester Sport comes equipped with a premium audio system, delivering high-quality sound for an enjoyable listening experience. USB ports are conveniently located throughout the cabin, allowing you to charge your devices and connect them to the infotainment system. Subaru’s Starlink system provides additional connectivity features, including access to emergency services, vehicle diagnostics, and remote services via a smartphone app. These features enhance the convenience and safety of the Forester Sport, providing added peace of mind. The infotainment system in the 2023 Subaru Forester Sport is designed to be both functional and user-friendly. It offers a range of connectivity options, ensuring that you can stay connected and entertained while on the road. From its intuitive touchscreen interface to its seamless smartphone integration, the Forester Sport’s infotainment system is a standout feature that enhances the overall driving experience. Whether you're navigating to a new destination or enjoying your favorite music, the Forester Sport keeps you connected and entertained.

Trim Levels and Pricing

The 2023 Subaru Forester comes in several trim levels, each offering a different set of features and price points. The Sport trim sits in the middle of the lineup, offering a balance of style, features, and value. Other trims include the base model, Premium, Limited, and Touring. Pricing for the 2023 Subaru Forester Sport typically starts in the mid-$20,000s, making it a competitive option in the compact SUV segment. The Sport trim offers a good value proposition, with its unique styling elements and enhanced features justifying the price difference compared to the base model. Higher trims, such as the Limited and Touring, offer even more luxury and convenience features, but they also come with a higher price tag. When considering trim levels, it's important to weigh your needs and preferences against your budget. The Sport trim is a great choice for those who want a stylish and well-equipped SUV without breaking the bank. It offers a good balance of features, performance, and value, making it a popular choice among Forester buyers. Ultimately, the best trim level for you will depend on your individual needs and budget. But the 2023 Subaru Forester Sport stands out as a compelling option in the lineup, offering a unique blend of style, performance, and value. It’s a trim that appeals to those who want a little extra flair in their daily drive, without sacrificing the practicality and reliability that the Forester is known for.

Pros and Cons

Like any vehicle, the 2023 Subaru Forester Sport has its pros and cons. Let's break them down:

Pros:

Standard All-Wheel Drive: Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive is a major selling point, providing excellent traction and stability in all weather conditions.
Sporty Styling: The Sport trim's black accents and unique styling elements give it a distinctive and appealing look.
Advanced Safety Features: The EyeSight Driver Assist Technology provides a comprehensive suite of safety systems.
Comfortable and Spacious Interior: The Forester Sport offers a comfortable and spacious cabin for both passengers and cargo.
Good Fuel Economy: The Forester Sport achieves impressive fuel economy for an SUV with all-wheel drive.

Cons:

Engine Power: The 2.5-liter engine provides adequate power, but some drivers may desire more horsepower.
CVT Transmission: While the CVT is efficient, it may not appeal to those who prefer a traditional automatic transmission.
Infotainment System: While user-friendly, the infotainment system's graphics and interface could be more modern.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the 2023 Subaru Forester Sport is a well-rounded compact SUV that offers a compelling blend of style, safety, and practicality. Its sporty styling, standard all-wheel drive, and advanced safety features make it a standout choice in its class. While it may not be the most powerful SUV on the market, it provides a comfortable and capable driving experience for everyday use. If you're in the market for a compact SUV that can handle a variety of conditions and look good doing it, the 2023 Subaru Forester Sport is definitely worth considering. It’s a vehicle that delivers on its promises, offering reliability, versatility, and a touch of sportiness that sets it apart from the competition. Whether you're navigating city streets or exploring off the beaten path, the Forester Sport is ready for the adventure. It’s a smart choice for families, adventurers, and anyone who values safety, practicality, and a bit of style in their vehicle. So, guys, what do you think? Is the 2023 Subaru Forester Sport the right SUV for you?