Check this out: https://youtu.be/xkXgYkUci74
I’ve got a 2010, and while it needs some work, I love it so much. I can’t imagine driving anything else.
The 2005 Forester, along with others using the 4EAT transmission, has one of the most reliable setups ever made.
Honestly, some Foresters after 2014/2015 kind of have the same vibe as the 2005 models.
I’ve got an ‘07 XT and love it. I do all my own maintenance, and luckily, it hasn’t needed much. Just replaced the rear bearings at 159k miles and gearing up for my second timing belt job. Would love to do an STI swap someday.
@Zev
I always wanted a 2004-2008 FXT, but we ended up with a 2004 XS. Now I’m driving a Porsche Cayenne GTS for fun, but I still miss the old Subaru.
These are fantastic cars. They have a totally different feel from newer Subarus. With a cheap $60 head unit from eBay, you can make it feel modern while keeping that classic charm.
We had a silver 2004 Forester and loved it. Upgraded it a bit and it was an absolute beast in the snow. We’ve since moved on to a 2016 Forester, which is great too, but nothing beats the old one for fun snow driving.
I have a 2008 Outback with 145k miles, and I love it. Older cars have a unique charm—like wearing a vintage jacket in a world of trendy new stuff. The narrower design and simplicity make it feel so different from modern cars. I’ll take reliability over all the gadgets any day.