There’s Only 1 Thing Consumer Reports Doesn’t Like About the 2022 Subaru Forester

The Subaru Forester is well known for being a capable and practical SUV, and it has had few issues over the years. Consumer Reports largely agrees with that assessment, and the Forester has the ratings to back it up. That said, although the 2022 Subaru Forester is an excellent compact crossover, Consumer Reports doesn’t like one thing about it.

Consumer Reports’ ratings for the 2022 model

2022 Subaru Forester: Consumer Reports finds 1 problem
2022 Subaru Forester Wilderness | Subaru of America, Inc.

Consumer Reports rates the 2022 Subaru Forester the highest in its segment. It scored an overall 90 out of 100, placing it above capable rivals such as the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V. The Forester scored well overall, thanks to its high ratings in nearly every category.

Consumer Reports gave the Subaru crossover a 90 out of 100 on its road test, and the reviewers praised many aspects about how the Forester drives.

In addition, the Forester received high marks for its predicted reliability and predicted owner satisfaction. Consumer Reports gave the Forester a 4 out of 5 in both categories. 

The 1 thing Consumer Reports does not like about the 2022 Subaru Forester

Though Consumer Reports offers plenty of praise for the 2022 Subaru Forester, the site’s reviewers found one issue. It concerns engine noise. CR describes the sound as a “coarse hum.” On top of that, the noise worsens thanks to the SUV’s continuously variable transmission.

When drivers put the pedal to the metal, the Subaru’s CVT “amplifies” the engine’s noise and makes it worse. Many previous Forester models also have the same issue because Subaru hasn’t changed much about the SUV’s engine or transmission in recent years. However, although the 2022 Forester’s engine noise is a minor problem, Subaru has ensured the rest of the crossover is as pleasing as can be. 

Is the 2022 Subaru Forester a good SUV?

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The 2022 Subaru Forester offers only one engine option, a 2.5-liter four-cylinder producing 182 hp. It isn’t especially quick, taking about 9.2 seconds to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph. That said, the engine provides adequate power and good fuel efficiency. It gets 20 mpg in the city, 38 mpg on the highway, and 28 mpg combined.

Plus, the Forester, like most Subaru models, has standard all-wheel drive, giving this SUV its outdoorsy reputation. One of the other reasons the Forester is known for being great for the outdoors is its interior. The Forester provides ample passenger space and cargo capacity to carry plenty of outdoor gear.

Another great feature for the outdoors — and daily driving — is the Forester’s high driving position. Thanks to how Subaru designed the cabin, the driver and passengers can get a great view from inside the SUV.

Furthermore, the Forester boasts plenty of tech features. Not only does it boast many advanced safety features, but its infotainment system is also easy to use. 

So, despite Consumer Reports’ quibble about the engine noise, the 2022 Subaru Forester is a good SUV.