What’s up everyone… I’ve been eyeing the Forester, especially the older 1st and 2nd gens, as my first ride. Anyone here think it’s a solid pick for a first car? I know head gasket problems can pop up but I’m not sure if it’s only the XT turbo models or even the non-turbo ones.
I plan to keep mods light, nothing crazy, but wondering if the XT is really worth the extra cost? Or are the basic trims still fun? I’m leaning towards manual but most manuals near me seem to be JDM imports—would that be a hassle legally?
Would love to hear your thoughts, tips, or anything I should watch out for. Thanks!
XT’s cool but it’ll hit you harder on gas, insurance, and repairs. For a first car, I’d focus on something cheap to run and reliable. I’m 19, driving a '13 Forester X. Not super fast but it’s comfy, roomy, and perfect for hauling my stuff to college.
Thinking of adding some all-terrain tires and skid plates next, but even stock, it handles muddy trails and backroads like a champ.
@Wil
Yeah, makes sense. I kinda want to stay away from the newer ones too since they’re more like big SUVs. Was hoping for something lower but still practical. I’ve also been checking out old Integras and Civics… might go with one if the Forester prices get outta hand.
My first ride was a stock 2004 Forester XT with about 100k miles. Put another 40k on it and did a good amount of mods. It’s a blast but honestly probably spoiled myself a bit, lol. I also have a lifted '99 Outback now—basic, NA engine but still fun.
XT’s quick but the brakes are weak. Easy to get in trouble if you’re not careful. Insurance is pricier, gas costs more, and cops notice you. Outback’s way more chill, cheaper to run, and still a good time.
You’d be better off grabbing a manual non-turbo Forester or even an old Outback. Clean manual XTs are pricey these days. Oh, and NA models might need gasket work, but turbo ones usually had better ones stock. Always check service history though.
@Keenan
Thanks man! Yeah, seems like NA manuals might be the move. How does your Outback compare? I thought about checking out second or third gen Outbacks since they’re pretty similar. I wanna lower whichever one I get though, not really into tall rides. Any major differences in upkeep between your Forester and Outback?
@Laken
Totally different vibe. My Forester’s lowered, stiff sway bars, and has a bunch of mods planned. Outback’s lifted, no sway bars, more of a beater build.
Maintenance-wise, pretty close. Outback’s cheaper mainly cause it’s NA, runs regular gas, fewer turbo parts to worry about. But honestly, cost difference depends on how deep you go with mods. If you want low, both are solid choices—just find one in decent shape and go from there.
Honestly, first cars are all fun—freedom’s the real win. I daily a 2004 Forester 2.5 NA, 5-speed. Nothing fancy but it’s solid, especially for dirt roads and farm life.
I’m fixing up a blown XT now, just for fun. But yeah, if I were you, I’d stick to something reliable with decent MPG. My first car was an old Volvo wagon—nothing exciting but it got me everywhere I wanted to go and didn’t break the bank.
@Micah
How’s your NA Forester been reliability-wise? Any annoying issues or pretty easy fixes overall? Thinking I’ll skip the XT after hearing everyone’s feedback. Volvo wagons aren’t really my thing but yeah, I get your point, maybe I should focus on something practical first.
@Laken
It’s been good so far. But I kinda tinker with all my cars so I don’t mind if something small breaks—I just fix it myself. Got mine cheap cause the clutch was toast, fixed it for around $1200 total.
XT’s needing rod bearings now, but I knew it when I bought it blown. My advice—keep it simple and save your money for gas and trips.
First cars don’t gotta be cool or fast—they’re your ticket to freedom, that’s what matters. My first was an old gold Corolla hatchback with maybe 80hp if that. Still loved it.
If you find a manual NA Forester, you’ll have a blast. They’ve got enough zip to be fun but won’t wreck your wallet.
@Moe
Yeah, fair point! I think I’m sold on the idea of keeping it simple and reliable now. But if I find a clean manual Forester, I’m definitely snagging it.
Gerald said:
My son’s been fixing up an old 2001 Volvo for his daughter’s first car… meanwhile, I kinda took over his 2014 Forester. Not bad at all!
Foresters are awesome no matter the year! I feel you though, I’m personally leaning towards something older and lower, but gotta respect the newer ones too.
So my first car was a big ol’ Avalon—basically a yacht on wheels. Then I got a 2017 Forester XT and wow, what a difference. Paid about 26k, worth every penny to me cause I wanted that turbo. Sure, gas and insurance hurt more, but it’s fast, fun, and feels solid. The brakes suck though—planning on upgrading them soon.
If gas prices bug you, the non-turbo 2.5i gets way better mileage. But honestly, any Forester’s a blast. You don’t need an XT to have fun. Pick the one that makes sense for you and go enjoy it.