Hey guys! Are you thinking about snagging a 2021 Subaru Forester Sport? Well, you've come to the right place. Let's dive deep into what makes this car tick, its pros, its cons, and ultimately, whether it's worth your hard-earned cash. Buckle up!

Overview of the 2021 Subaru Forester Sport

The 2021 Subaru Forester Sport is a compact SUV that slots into Subaru's lineup as a slightly more athletic and stylish version of the standard Forester. It's designed to appeal to those who want a bit more flair and some unique features without breaking the bank. What sets the Sport apart? Think darker exterior trim, unique interior accents, and some specific features that aren't available on the base models. But before we get too carried away, let's break down the essential aspects of this ride.

Engine and Performance

Under the hood, you'll find a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque. It's paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and, of course, Subaru's signature symmetrical all-wheel drive. Now, while 182 horsepower might not sound like a ton, it's generally adequate for daily driving and navigating city streets. However, don't expect blistering acceleration; the Forester Sport is more about reliability and capability than outright speed. The CVT does a decent job of mimicking traditional gear changes, but it can sometimes drone a bit under heavy acceleration. All in all, the performance is practical and predictable, ideal for those who prioritize safety and stability over thrills.

Interior and Features

Inside the 2021 Subaru Forester Sport, you'll find a cabin that's both functional and comfortable. The Sport trim adds some nice touches, such as dark gray cloth upholstery with orange stitching, which gives it a slightly more premium feel. The front seats are supportive, making them suitable for long drives. Tech-wise, the Forester Sport comes standard with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system that includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. It’s relatively easy to use, although some might find the graphics a bit dated. Standard features also include a sunroof, keyless entry, and push-button start, adding to the convenience factor. The rear seats offer plenty of room for passengers, and the cargo area is quite generous, making it a great choice for families or anyone who needs to haul a lot of gear. The interior is where the Forester shines, balancing comfort, technology, and practicality effectively.

Exterior and Styling

One of the main draws of the Sport trim is its distinctive exterior styling. You'll notice blacked-out trim elements, including the grille, side mirrors, and rear spoiler, giving it a more aggressive and modern look. The 18-inch black alloy wheels also contribute to its sporty appearance. While the overall design is still unmistakably Forester, these subtle tweaks make the Sport stand out from the lower trims. It's a handsome vehicle that manages to look both rugged and refined, appealing to a wide range of tastes. The exterior design is thoughtfully executed, enhancing the Forester's inherent appeal with a touch of sporty flair.

What We Love About the 2021 Subaru Forester Sport

Okay, let's get into the good stuff. There's a lot to appreciate about the 2021 Subaru Forester Sport. Here’s a breakdown of the highlights:

Standard All-Wheel Drive

First and foremost, it's a Subaru, which means it comes standard with the brand's renowned symmetrical all-wheel drive. This system provides excellent traction and stability in a variety of weather conditions, making it a great choice for those who live in areas with snow or rain. The all-wheel-drive system inspires confidence and is a significant selling point for many buyers.

EyeSight Driver Assist Technology

Subaru's EyeSight suite of driver-assist technologies is also standard on the Forester Sport. This includes features like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. These systems work together to help prevent accidents and make driving safer and less stressful. The EyeSight system is a game-changer, providing an added layer of security and peace of mind.

Spacious Interior

As mentioned earlier, the Forester boasts a spacious and comfortable interior. There's plenty of room for passengers in both the front and rear seats, and the cargo area is one of the largest in its class. This makes it a practical choice for families or anyone who needs to haul a lot of stuff. The spacious interior makes the Forester a versatile and family-friendly SUV.

Sporty Styling

The blacked-out trim and unique accents of the Sport trim give the Forester a more aggressive and stylish appearance. It's a subtle but effective way to differentiate it from the other trims in the lineup. The sporty styling adds a touch of personality to the Forester, making it stand out from the crowd.

Drawbacks of the 2021 Subaru Forester Sport

Now, let's talk about the not-so-good stuff. While the 2021 Subaru Forester Sport has a lot going for it, it's not without its drawbacks:

Lackluster Acceleration

As mentioned earlier, the 2.5-liter engine provides adequate power for most situations, but it's not exactly thrilling. Acceleration is leisurely, and the CVT can sometimes feel unresponsive. If you're looking for a sporty SUV with brisk acceleration, you might be disappointed. The lackluster acceleration is a common complaint, especially for those seeking a more engaging driving experience.

CVT Drone

The CVT can sometimes produce a noticeable drone, especially under heavy acceleration. This can be annoying, particularly on long road trips. While Subaru has made improvements to its CVTs over the years, the drone is still present in the Forester. The CVT drone can detract from the overall driving experience, especially during demanding situations.

Infotainment System

While the 8-inch touchscreen is functional and includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, the graphics and interface feel a bit dated. Some competitors offer more modern and user-friendly infotainment systems. The infotainment system could use an update to bring it in line with the competition.

How the 2021 Subaru Forester Sport Compares to Competitors

So, how does the 2021 Subaru Forester Sport stack up against its rivals? Let's take a quick look at some of the competition:

Toyota RAV4

The Toyota RAV4 is a popular choice in the compact SUV segment, offering a similar blend of practicality and reliability. It also offers a hybrid version, which the Forester lacks. However, the RAV4's styling can be polarizing, and its interior isn't as spacious as the Forester's. The RAV4 is a strong contender, but the Forester offers a more comfortable and spacious interior.

Honda CR-V

The Honda CR-V is another top contender, known for its spacious interior, fuel efficiency, and reliability. Like the RAV4, it also offers a hybrid version. However, the CR-V's styling is more conservative than the Forester Sport's, and it doesn't offer standard all-wheel drive. The CR-V is a well-rounded SUV, but the Forester's standard all-wheel drive gives it an edge in certain conditions.

Mazda CX-5

The Mazda CX-5 is often praised for its sporty handling and upscale interior. It's a more engaging vehicle to drive than the Forester, but it doesn't offer as much cargo space. The CX-5 is a great choice for those who prioritize driving dynamics, but the Forester is more practical for families.

Is the 2021 Subaru Forester Sport Worth It?

So, the big question: is the 2021 Subaru Forester Sport worth buying? Well, it depends on your priorities. If you value standard all-wheel drive, a spacious interior, and a comprehensive suite of safety features, then the Forester Sport is definitely worth considering. Its sporty styling also adds a touch of personality that some competitors lack.

However, if you're looking for thrilling performance or a cutting-edge infotainment system, you might be disappointed. The Forester Sport is more about practicality and reliability than outright excitement. Ultimately, the best way to decide is to take one for a test drive and see if it meets your needs.

Final Verdict

The 2021 Subaru Forester Sport is a solid choice for those seeking a reliable, practical, and safe compact SUV with a touch of sporty flair. While it's not the most exciting vehicle on the market, it offers a compelling combination of features and value. If you prioritize all-wheel drive and safety, the Forester Sport should definitely be on your shortlist. Happy car hunting!