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Your 2023 Subaru Forester Trim Guide

A close up of the front of a blue 2023 Subaru Forester Wilderness shows the headlight.

If you are looking for a compact SUV that has seating for five, standard all-wheel drive, and that isn't afraid to get its wheels dirty, then you probably already know you want to find a Subaru Forester for sale. With the 2023 Forester, you’re getting versatility, affordability, and connectivity all wrapped up into an exciting package that is one of eleven different earthy colors. For 2023, Subaru has made six trims available for the Forester. There is a range of features and options for everyone, meaning you’ll be able to find a Forester trim within your budget that has the features you want most.

Things You'll Find in Every Forester

Before we really get into a breakdown of all of these trims, so you can figure out which one is going to be right for you, we are going to touch on what these trims have in common. Each of the six Forester trims is powered by a 2.5L 4-cylinder engine. This engine provides 2023 Forester drivers with 182 hp and 176 lb-ft of torque paired with a CVT and Subaru's legendary Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (which will be helpful for those times you want to get the most out of the 3,000-lb maximum towing capacity). Not to be forgotten, fuel efficiency is definitely a plus, with an average of 26 MPG in the city and 33 MPG on the highway. This collection of specifications offers a great foundation for the Foresters, but now, it's time to get into the details of each trim.

The Base

The 2023 Forester Base provides drivers with what is already a fun and efficient vehicle without getting to the price levels of the upper trims. You are still getting the 2.5L engine and all-wheel drive, so there is no sacrifice in ride quality just because this is the cheapest model. If you do prefer to venture off the beaten path every now and again, there are 8.7 inches of ground clearance, so you will have the kind of confidence you want and need when encountering obstacles.

When it comes to the interior, Subaru goes with a 6.5-inch infotainment touchscreen at the base level. The system supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to make staying connected easier when you’re on the road. Other notable features of the Forester Base include a tilt/telescoping steering wheel, automatic climate control, and a four-speaker audio system. For more connectivity and charging options, there is a USB port in the center console.

The Premium

The Premium is a significant upgrade from the Base trim. The 2023 Subaru Forester Premium includes the All-Weather Package as standard. This package includes a windshield wiper de-icer, heated side mirrors, and heated front seats. Inside, you'll also find a leather-wrapped steering wheel with silver stitching, center dash panel trim in black with a silver metallic finish, and chrome inner door handles. The ten-way power driver’s seat with lumbar support––also power operated––will give you an enjoyable ride. There are two USB ports in the center console for charging, and this trim features Push-Button start as a standard.

The exterior features 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels with a machine finish that look great as they are paired with the rugged look of the Forester. The dark-tint privacy glass adds to this and can allow you to feel a little more discreet. The panoramic power moonroof will allow you to let in fresh air when you want, and ladder-type roof rails will give you extra room for cargo when it is time to take a trip.

The Premium trim also features X-MODE. X-MODE aims to improve peace of mind by managing vehicle systems such as all-wheel drive, transmission, and engine to keep you safe when driving on any sort of uneven surface. The Premium also features Hill Descent Control for navigating steep declines. Other safety features that are available include Blind Spot Detection with Lane Change Assist and Rear-Cross Traffic Alert. Additionally, there is Automatic Emergency Steering. The additions made to the Premium trim provide a lot of value for those who might be looking for a bit more than the Base has to offer.

A close up of the tire and rim on a white 2023 Subaru Forester Sport for sale is shown.

The Sport

The 2023 Forester Sport is great for those who want style in their vehicle that reminds them it can get up and go. This trim is the first on the list to have 18-inch wheels, giving this trim a slightly more imposing look than the others. The wheels have a nice black finish to match the rear spoiler. Orange is the chosen color for the accents and the trim badge on the rear of the vehicle. This is continued in the interior, with orange stitching on the seats and accents, exclusive to this trim only.

Standard safety features on the sport trim include the Blind-Spot Detection with the same assistance that is available for the Premium trim. Also standard is Automatic Emergency Steering and dual-function X-MODE. This trim is meant to appeal to those who want to enhance the look and performance of their 2023 Forester.

The Wilderness

The 2023 Forester Wilderness is the trim to get if you plan to head off-road more than just occasionally. This trim is especially meant for those who would like to be able to handle any and every terrain or situation they encounter. Living up to its name, this trim is ready for trails. The ground clearance is 9.2 inches, making it higher than other Forester models, meaning it's better equipped to head off-road without damaging the underside of the SUV. For the off-road riding experience, Subaru has fine-tuned the suspension to match the change in height so that handling is not sacrificed. This also includes adding all-terrain tires with a black finish.

The Wilderness occupies its own space in the Forester lineup in terms of appearance. There are hexagonal-style front lights to match the hexagonal front grille. There’s also a matte black decal that fits perfectly in the design. Finally, a skid plate completes the exterior preparation for off-road. The off-road prep extends to the interior with Startex water-repellant upholstery and all-weather floor mats. This trim also comes with the eight-inch infotainment screen as a standard feature, and navigation is optional.

The Limited

The 2023 Forester Limited is more like the Premium trim, yet enhanced. The eight-inch touchscreen is also standard in this trim, along with the six-speaker audio system. However, you can upgrade to the nine-speaker Harman Kardon premium audio system if you prefer. The seating is comfortable leather, and wrapped leather adds a stylish touch to the steering wheel and shifter. The exterior of the Limited trim has side mirrors that match the body color and include lighted turn signals. 18-inch black aluminum alloy wheels set the vehicle apart in appearance and continue the rugged, stylish theme of the trim.

A close up of the shifter and X-Mode knob in a 2023 Subaru Forester for sale is shown.

The Touring

At the top of the trim line sits the Touring. You’ll see all features of the Limited here, plus more. It introduces the DriverFocus Distraction Mitigation System. This system can detect if you are starting to become drowsy and will alert you if you need to pull over and take a break or if you are not watching the road as closely as you should be. The 18-inch alloy wheels have a dark gray finish, and chrome details around the LED fog lights and on the roof rails add a touch of visual class. Leather is the standard interior material, but you can opt for it in the exclusive Saddle Brown color for a bit of extra flare. This gorgeous and comfortable trim of the Forester offers every luxury a driver could need.

There Is a Forester Trim Out There for You

As you can see, the Subaru Forester has a lot to offer across its six-trim lineup. The Base is already well equipped with a high-performing engine and comfortable interior, the Wilderness is the epitome of off-roading prowess, and the Touring wraps everything with a touch of luxury. If you know which of these trims is perfect for you, or if you want to check out a couple of them in person before you decide, visit us here at Ruge's Subaru today. Our team will be happy to help you find your ideal 2023 Subaru Forester trim.