Subaru Forester Ground Clearance Specs & Insights
Knowing the Subaru Forester’s ground clearance is key for a great driving experience. It’s perfect for off-roading or tackling different terrains.
The Wilderness trim has up to 9.2 inches of clearance. This lets you tackle obstacles with confidence and drive smoothly on city streets.
We’ll look into the Subaru Forester’s clearance specs in detail. We’ll compare different models and see how it stacks up against other SUVs.
You’ll learn about the ground clearance for each trim and how it affects off-road performance and overall driving.
This information is great whether you’re buying a Subaru or already own one. You’ll understand your vehicle’s capabilities better.
Let’s explore how the Subaru Forester’s clearance enhances both its practicality and adventure!
What’s Subaru Forester Ground Clearance?
Ground clearance is the height from a vehicle’s lowest point to the ground. For the Subaru Forester, this is key for a better driving experience.
The 2022 Subaru Forester has a standard ground clearance of 8.7 inches on most trims. The Wilderness trim has an impressive 9.2 inches.
This height helps you drive safely over obstacles. It also makes driving more comfortable, even on rough paths.
Ground clearance also protects your vehicle from damage. It lets you drive on rough terrains without worrying about hitting the ground.
The Forester’s design, including its suspension and tires, makes it great for different driving conditions.
Its ground clearance and a long wheelbase make it perfect for city streets and off-road adventures. This makes the Subaru Forester a reliable choice for many drivers.
Subaru Forester Ground Clearance Specs
The Subaru Forester is known for its impressive ground clearance. This feature makes it great for city driving and off-road adventures.
With a standard clearance of about 8.7 inches, it’s ready for any terrain. It offers a perfect mix of comfort and off-road skills. This is very useful when driving on rough paths.
Standard Ground Clearance Measurements
The Subaru Forester’s standard clearance is perfect for different terrains. Most trims have a ground clearance of 8.7 inches.
This height helps it navigate through obstacles and uneven surfaces. The Wilderness variant has even more clearance, at 9.2 inches.
This makes it even better for off-road adventures. Here’s a table showing the ground clearance for different trims:
| Trim Level | Ground Clearance |
|---|---|
| Standard Trims | 8.7 inches |
| Wilderness Variant | 9.2 inches |
Comparison with Previous Models
The 2024 Subaru Forester keeps the same ground clearance as the 2023 model, at 8.7 inches. This shows Subaru’s dedication to a reliable driving experience.
It’s similar to the third-generation models but has more features. The Forester’s ground clearance, approach angle, and breakover angle make it great for tough terrains. It’s a versatile vehicle for any adventure.
Subaru Forester Ground Clearance Comparison
The Subaru Forester has impressive ground clearance compared to its competitors. It comes with a standard 8.7 inches of clearance.
The Wilderness trim boosts this to 9.2 inches, perfect for those who love adventure.
How it Stacks Up Against Competitors
The Subaru Forester outshines many rivals in ground clearance. For instance, the Honda CR-V has only 7.8 inches, and the Toyota RAV4 has 8.4 inches.
This means the Forester can handle rough terrain better, giving it an edge. Here’s a table showing how the Forester compares:
| Model | Ground Clearance (inches) |
|---|---|
| Subaru Forester | 8.7 |
| Subaru Forester Wilderness | 9.2 |
| Honda CR-V | 7.8 |
| Toyota RAV4 | 8.4 |
Comparison of Different Trims
The Subaru Forester offers various trims to suit different needs. The base model comes with a 2.5-liter engine and all-wheel drive.
The Premium and Sport trims add unique features without sacrificing ground clearance. For those who love off-roading, the Wilderness trim is ideal.
It has 9.2 inches of clearance and advanced features like X-MODE and Hill Descent Control. Here’s a list of ground clearance for each trim:
- Base model: 8.7 inches
- Premium: 8.7 inches
- Sport: 8.7 inches
- Limited: 8.7 inches
- Wilderness: 9.2 inches
Subaru Forester Ground Clearance vs Competitors
The Subaru Forester has a ground clearance of 8.7 inches. This is a big plus in the compact SUV world.
It helps drivers tackle different terrains with ease. When you look at other SUVs, the Forester really stands out.
Ground Clearance of Rival SUVs
Knowing how other compact SUVs stack up is key. Here’s a quick look:
| SUV Model | Ground Clearance |
|---|---|
| Subaru Forester | 8.7 inches |
| Toyota RAV4 | 8.4 inches |
| Honda CR-V | 8.2 inches |
| Audi A4 allroad | 6.5 inches |
More ground clearance means better off-road skills. It helps you get over rocks and bumps. The Forester’s design also makes driving safer and more comfortable.
Benefits of Higher Ground Clearance
Higher ground clearance brings many perks. You get:
- Better off-road performance for fun trips on rough paths.
- Clearer visibility on the road, helping you spot obstacles sooner.
- A smoother ride over bumps and uneven ground, making driving more comfortable.
Choosing a car with lots of ground clearance makes driving more exciting. The Subaru Forester is perfect for those who love adventure and reliability.
Exploring Subaru Forester Ground Clearance Inches
The Subaru Forester has impressive ground clearance across its trims. Knowing the ground clearance for each trim helps you see how well it handles different terrains.
Detailed Inch Measurements For Different Trims
Each Subaru Forester trim has its own dimensions, fitting different driving styles. Here’s a look at the ground clearance for each trim:
| Trim Level | Ground Clearance (inches) |
|---|---|
| Base | 8.7 |
| Sport | 8.7 |
| Limited | 8.7 |
| Touring | 8.7 |
| Wilderness | 9.2 |
The standard and Sport trims offer 8.7 inches of ground clearance. They’re great for daily driving and some off-roading.
The Wilderness trim, with 9.2 inches, is perfect for tougher terrains. If you need more clearance, look into Subaru Forester lift options.
Enhancing Subaru Forester Ground Clearance: Lift Kits
If you want to increase your Subaru Forester’s ground clearance, lift kits are key. The right lift kit elevates your vehicle and boosts off-road performance.
There are many Subaru Forester lift kit options to choose from, ensuring you find one that fits your driving style and comfort needs.
Best Lift Kit for Subaru Forester
The best lift kit for your Subaru Forester depends on several factors. These include the terrain you drive on, your preferred driving comfort, and performance needs.
The Crawford Performance 2″ Lift Kit is a top choice, priced at $379.99, down from $549.99. This kit is made from durable billet CNC aluminum.
It adds strength and prevents corrosion while providing the necessary lift. It comes with two aluminum strut spacers for the front and rear, along with hardware and instructions.
You’ll need to realign the vehicle after installation.
Available Subaru Forester Lift Kit Options
There are several lift kit options for Subaru Foresters from 1998 to 2018. Here’s a quick look:
| Model Years | Raw Metal Price | FDF Platinum Price |
|---|---|---|
| 1998-2002 | $534.15 | $687.27 |
| 2003-2008 | $534.15 | $687.27 |
| 2009-2013 | $652.87 | $805.96 |
| 2014-2018 | $652.87 | $805.96 |
Options like the ATS Suspension Lift Kit offer a 2-inch lift. This increases ground clearance to about 10.7 inches.
With the right Subaru Forester lift kit, you’ll enjoy better handling and less risk of damage. This makes off-road adventures safer and more fun.
Subaru Forester Off-Road Capabilities
The Subaru Forester is great for off-road adventures. It has a symmetrical all-wheel-drive (AWD) system.
This system sends power to all four wheels, improving grip on different surfaces.
While it does well off-road, some features affect its performance. These features are important to know about.
Importance of Ground Clearance in Off-Roading
Ground clearance is key for off-road vehicles like the Subaru Forester. The 2026 Wilderness model has 9.3 inches of clearance. This helps it go over rocks, logs, or deep ruts.
But, not all terrains are easy for it. Adjusting tire pressure and using all-terrain tires can help. These changes can improve its traction.
Real-World Performance and User Experiences
People have mixed feelings about the Subaru Forester’s off-road abilities. Many like its handling and stability on medium trails.
But, some wish it had locking differentials and low-range gearing like off-road trucks.
The X-mode helps with low-speed crawling, but it has its limits. For serious off-roading, a dedicated truck or SUV might be better.
Subaru Forester Suspension Upgrades For Ground Clearance Improvement
Boosting your Subaru Forester’s ground clearance can make it better for off-road adventures and daily driving.
You can find the right balance between performance and comfort with the right upgrades. Coil spring spacers and adjustable lift kits can add up to 3 inches of lift.
Brands like RalliTEK and Pedders offer top-rated lift kits. These kits keep your Forester aligned and handle smoothly.
Common Upgrades for Better Ground Clearance
Coil spring spacers are a favorite for lifting your Forester. They’re easy to install without a spring compressor.
After adding any suspension upgrades, realigning your Forester is key to avoid tire wear.
Pedders has a 2” lift kit for the 5th Gen Subaru Forester. The TrakRyder EziFit kit is easy to install for quick improvements.
Comparing Suspension Options
When looking at Subaru Forester suspension upgrades, it’s important to compare different options. Brands like Fox and King ensure their kits fit well and perform well.
RalliTEK’s lift spacer kits keep your Forester’s alignment right. Pedders’ lift kit comes with everything you need for moderate loads.
Upgrading your suspension improves ground clearance and handling. It’s a smart choice for both off-road enthusiasts and daily drivers.
FAQs
What is the ground clearance of the Subaru Forester?
Most Subaru Forester trims have a standard ground clearance of 8.7 inches. The Wilderness trim, though, boasts an impressive 9.2 inches.
How does the Subaru Forester’s ground clearance compare to competitors?
The Subaru Forester stands out with its higher ground clearance. For example, the Honda CR-V has 7.8 inches, and the Toyota RAV4 offers 8.4 inches.
What factors affect the Subaru Forester’s ground clearance?
Several factors can influence the Subaru Forester’s ground clearance. These include suspension design, tire size, overall weight distribution, and the specific trim level.
Can I improve the ground clearance of my Subaru Forester?
Yes, you can improve your Subaru Forester’s ground clearance. Use lift kits from reputable brands like AEV or Eibach. They can significantly raise your vehicle’s height for better off-road performance.
What are some common suspension upgrades for the Subaru Forester?
Common upgrades include stiffer springs or adjustable coilovers. These allow you to customize the ride height based on your specific driving needs.
How does the Subaru Forester perform off-road?
The Subaru Forester’s ample ground clearance makes it excellent off-road. It can navigate rocky trails and challenging terrains effectively.
What are the best lift kit options for the Subaru Forester?
The best lift kit options include products from AEV and Eibach. They cater to various driving styles and performance requirements.
What are the benefits of higher ground clearance in SUVs?
Higher ground clearance offers several benefits. It improves visibility, reduces the risk of undercarriage damage, enhances off-road capabilities, and increases driving comfort on uneven surfaces.
