Alton Brobst If you’re in the market for a versatile SUV that can handle both city commutes and outdoor adventures, the Subaru Forester is probably on your list. With its standard all-wheel drive, spacious interior, and impressive safety features, this popular family SUV has a lot to offer. But can a Subaru Forester go off-road? The answer is a resounding yes!
In this article, we’ll explore the off-road capabilities of the Subaru Forester, including its ground clearance, suspension, tires, and other features that make it a capable off-road vehicle. We’ll also share some real-world examples of successful off-road adventures in the Forester, as well as some tips for modifying your Forester to maximize its off-road potential.
Key Takeaways
- The Subaru Forester is a capable off-road vehicle thanks to its standard all-wheel drive, ground clearance, and suspension.
- The Forester has a ground clearance of 8.7 inches, which is higher than many other SUVs in its class.
- Off-road tires can greatly improve the Forester’s traction and handling on rough terrain.
- Suspension upgrades, such as lift kits and skid plates, can help protect the Forester’s undercarriage from damage.
- With some modifications, the Forester can handle even more challenging off-road terrain, including rock crawling and deep mud.
- Always exercise caution and good judgement when driving off-road, and never attempt anything beyond your skill level or the capabilities of your vehicle.
Ground Clearance
One of the most important factors in any off-road vehicle is ground clearance. This refers to the distance between the ground and the lowest point on the vehicle’s undercarriage. The Subaru Forester has a ground clearance of 8.7 inches, which is higher than many other SUVs in its class. This gives the Forester more room to navigate over obstacles such as rocks, logs, and uneven terrain.
Suspension
Another key factor in the Forester’s off-road capabilities is its suspension. The Forester comes with a MacPherson strut front suspension and a double-wishbone rear suspension, which provide a smooth ride on both pavement and dirt. Additionally, the Forester has Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, which helps distribute power to all four wheels for maximum traction.
While the Forester’s stock suspension is perfectly adequate for most off-road adventures, some enthusiasts might want to upgrade their suspension with various lift kits or skid plates. These modifications can help increase ground clearance, improve approach and departure angles, and protect the vehicle’s undercarriage from damage.
Tires
Off-road tires are another key component of any vehicle’s off-road capabilities. The Forester comes standard with all-season tires, which are fine for light off-road use. However, if you plan to do any serious off-roading, you’ll want to invest in a set of dedicated off-road tires.
Off-road tires typically have deeper treads and more aggressive patterns than regular tires, which helps improve traction on loose or slippery surfaces. Some popular off-road tire options for the Forester include the BF Goodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2, the Goodyear Wrangler Duratrac, and the Yokohama Geolandar A/T G015.
Real-World Off-Road Adventures
While the Subaru Forester might not be the first vehicle that comes to mind when you think of off-roading, there are plenty of examples of successful off-road adventures in the Forester. In fact, many Forester owners are avid off-road enthusiasts who have customized their vehicles to handle even more challenging terrain than stock.
Some popular off-road destinations for Forester owners include national parks like Moab and Zion, as well as more remote locations like the Rubicon Trail and the Dalton Highway in Alaska. With its all-wheel drive, ground clearance, and other off-road features, the Forester is a great choice for exploring the great outdoors.
Modifying Your Forester for Off-Road Use
If you’re interested in taking your Forester to the next level of off-road capability, there are several modifications you can make. As mentioned earlier, upgrading your suspension with lift kits or skid plates can be a good place to start. You can also invest in a set of off-road tires, as well as a winch, recovery straps, and other accessories that can come in handy in case you get stuck.
Other modifications that can improve your Forester’s off-road performance include installing a locking differential, upgrading your brakes, and adding a snorkel to help prevent water intake during river crossings. Of course, these modifications can be expensive and time-consuming, so it’s important to consider your budget and priorities before diving in.
FAQ
Is the Subaru Forester good for off-roading?
Yes, the Subaru Forester is a capable off-road vehicle thanks to its standard all-wheel drive, ground clearance, and suspension.
What is the ground clearance of a Subaru Forester?
The Subaru Forester has a ground clearance of 8.7 inches, which is higher than many other SUVs in its class.
What type of tires are best for off-roading in a Subaru Forester?
Off-road tires are best for serious off-roading in a Subaru Forester. Some popular off-road tire options for the Forester include the BF Goodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2, the Goodyear Wrangler Duratrac, and the Yokohama Geolandar A/T G015.
What modifications can I make to my Subaru Forester to improve its off-road capabilities?
You can make several modifications to your Subaru Forester to improve its off-road capabilities, including upgrading your suspension with lift kits or skid plates, installing off-road tires, adding a winch and recovery accessories, and more. However, these modifications can be expensive and time-consuming, so it’s important to consider your budget and priorities before diving in.
What are some popular off-road destinations for Subaru Forester owners?
Some popular off-road destinations for Subaru Forester owners include national parks like Moab and Zion, as well as more remote locations like the Rubicon Trail and the Dalton Highway in Alaska.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Subaru Forester is a great choice for anyone looking for a versatile SUV that can handle both everyday driving and off-road adventures. Thanks to its standard all-wheel drive, ground clearance, and suspension, the Forester is a capable off-road vehicle that can handle a wide range of terrain. With some modifications and the right equipment, the Forester can even handle more challenging off-road terrain like rock crawling and deep mud. Just remember to always exercise caution and good judgement when driving off-road, and never attempt anything beyond your skill level or the capabilities of your vehicle.
