Hey guys! Are you thinking about getting a 2011 Subaru Forester XT Touring? Or maybe you're just curious about this awesome ride? Either way, you've come to the right place. This review dives deep into what makes the 2011 Forester XT Touring a standout choice, covering everything from its performance and features to its reliability and overall value. So, buckle up, and let's get started!

Overview of the 2011 Subaru Forester XT Touring

The 2011 Subaru Forester XT Touring isn't just another SUV; it's a blend of practicality, performance, and Subaru's signature ruggedness. This model stands out thanks to its turbocharged engine, which delivers a significant power boost compared to the standard Forester. The 'Touring' trim adds a touch of luxury with enhanced features and comfort, making it an appealing option for those who want a bit more from their daily driver. Think of it as the Forester that's ready for both your daily commute and weekend adventures.

Subaru has always been known for its commitment to safety and reliability, and the 2011 Forester XT Touring is no exception. It comes standard with all-wheel drive, a feature that provides excellent traction in various weather conditions. This makes it a great choice for people living in areas with snow or rain. Plus, the added safety features and solid build quality give you peace of mind on the road. The 2011 model year also benefits from several updates and improvements over previous years, making it a well-rounded and dependable vehicle.

For those who appreciate a vehicle that can handle a bit of everything, the Forester XT Touring is definitely worth considering. It's not just about getting from point A to point B; it's about enjoying the journey with a vehicle that's both capable and comfortable. Whether you're hauling groceries, taking the kids to school, or exploring a scenic trail, this SUV is up to the task. It’s a practical choice with a fun twist, thanks to that turbo engine! And let's be real, who doesn't love a little extra power under the hood?

Performance and Engine Specs

Let's talk about what really makes the 2011 Subaru Forester XT Touring shine: its performance. Under the hood, you'll find a 2.5-liter turbocharged Boxer engine, which is a fancy way of saying it’s got a punch! This engine delivers around 224 horsepower and 226 lb-ft of torque. What does that mean for you? It means quick acceleration, plenty of power for passing on the highway, and an overall engaging driving experience.

The turbocharger is the key here. It boosts the engine's output, giving you that extra oomph when you need it. Unlike the base Forester model, the XT Touring feels much more responsive and energetic. Whether you're merging onto a busy freeway or climbing a steep hill, you'll appreciate the extra power. The Boxer engine also contributes to the car's stability, thanks to its low center of gravity. This helps the Forester XT Touring feel planted and confident on the road.

Now, let's get into the specifics. The engine is paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission. While some might argue that a 5 or 6-speed transmission would improve fuel economy, the 4-speed does a decent job of delivering power smoothly. Speaking of fuel economy, you can expect around 19 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway. Not the best in its class, but a fair trade-off for the added performance. The all-wheel-drive system ensures that power is distributed effectively to all four wheels, providing excellent traction in various driving conditions. Whether it's rain, snow, or gravel, the Forester XT Touring handles it with ease.

In summary, the performance of the 2011 Subaru Forester XT Touring is one of its strongest selling points. The turbocharged engine provides a noticeable boost in power, making it a fun and capable SUV to drive. While the fuel economy might not be stellar, the overall driving experience is well worth it for those who value performance.

Interior and Features

Stepping inside the 2011 Subaru Forester XT Touring, you’ll find a comfortable and functional interior designed with practicality in mind. While it might not be the most luxurious cabin in its class, it offers a range of features that make it a pleasant place to spend time. The 'Touring' trim adds some upscale touches, enhancing the overall experience.

The seats are upholstered in leather, providing a comfortable and supportive ride. The driver's seat is power-adjustable, allowing you to find the perfect driving position. Heated front seats are also included, which are a welcome feature on cold mornings. The rear seats offer plenty of legroom and headroom, making it suitable for passengers of all sizes. The interior design is straightforward and user-friendly, with controls that are easy to reach and understand. The dashboard is well-organized, and the gauges are clear and easy to read.

In terms of features, the 2011 Forester XT Touring comes equipped with a range of amenities. These include a sunroof, which adds a touch of openness to the cabin. A premium sound system provides excellent audio quality for your favorite tunes. Bluetooth connectivity allows you to make hands-free calls and stream music from your smartphone. Other features include automatic climate control, which keeps the cabin at a comfortable temperature, and a rearview camera, which makes parking and maneuvering easier. The cargo area is spacious, offering plenty of room for luggage, groceries, or sports equipment. The rear seats can be folded down to create even more space, making it easy to transport larger items.

Overall, the interior of the 2011 Subaru Forester XT Touring is a comfortable and practical space. While it might not be the flashiest cabin, it offers a range of features that enhance the driving experience. The leather seats, sunroof, and premium sound system add a touch of luxury, while the spacious cargo area and user-friendly controls make it a practical choice for everyday use. If you're looking for a comfortable and well-equipped SUV, the Forester XT Touring is definitely worth considering.

Reliability and Common Issues

When considering a used car like the 2011 Subaru Forester XT Touring, reliability is a crucial factor. Fortunately, Subaru has a reputation for building durable and dependable vehicles, and the Forester is no exception. However, like any car, the 2011 Forester XT Touring has its share of potential issues that buyers should be aware of.

One of the most common concerns with the Forester XT models is related to the turbocharged engine. Turbochargers can be sensitive to maintenance, and neglecting oil changes or running the engine hard can lead to premature wear or failure. It's essential to check the service history of any potential purchase to ensure that the engine has been properly maintained. Another potential issue is related to the automatic transmission. Some owners have reported issues with rough shifting or transmission failure. Again, regular maintenance is key to preventing these problems.

Another thing to keep an eye on is the head gaskets. Some Subaru models from this era are known to have head gasket issues, which can lead to coolant leaks and overheating. While not all Foresters are affected, it's worth having a mechanic inspect the car for any signs of head gasket problems before you buy. Rust can also be a concern, especially in areas with harsh winters. Check the undercarriage and body panels for any signs of corrosion. Regular washing and waxing can help prevent rust from forming.

Despite these potential issues, the 2011 Subaru Forester XT Touring is generally a reliable vehicle. Many owners report years of trouble-free service with proper maintenance. Before buying, it's always a good idea to have a trusted mechanic inspect the car to identify any potential problems. Also, check online forums and owner reviews to get a better sense of the car's reliability and common issues. With a little bit of research and due diligence, you can find a well-maintained Forester XT Touring that will provide years of reliable service.

Driving Experience

Alright, let’s get to the fun part: what it’s actually like to drive the 2011 Subaru Forester XT Touring. In short, it's a pretty enjoyable experience, especially if you appreciate a blend of practicality and performance. The turbocharged engine gives it a level of pep that's missing in the standard Forester, making it a fun and engaging SUV to drive.

The first thing you'll notice is the acceleration. The turbocharger kicks in quickly, providing a noticeable boost of power. This makes merging onto the highway or passing other cars a breeze. The all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction, giving you confidence in all kinds of weather conditions. Whether it's raining, snowing, or the roads are dry, the Forester XT Touring feels stable and planted. The steering is responsive and provides good feedback, allowing you to feel connected to the road.

The ride quality is generally good, although it can be a bit firm on rough roads. The suspension does a decent job of absorbing bumps and potholes, but you'll definitely feel them. The seats are comfortable and supportive, making long drives enjoyable. The visibility is excellent, thanks to the large windows and high seating position. This gives you a commanding view of the road and makes it easy to spot potential hazards. The interior is relatively quiet, with minimal road and wind noise. This makes it easy to have conversations with passengers or enjoy your favorite music.

Overall, the driving experience of the 2011 Subaru Forester XT Touring is a positive one. The turbocharged engine provides plenty of power, while the all-wheel-drive system ensures excellent traction. The comfortable seats and good visibility make it a great choice for long drives. While the ride quality could be a bit smoother, it's a minor trade-off for the added performance and capability. If you're looking for an SUV that's fun to drive and practical, the Forester XT Touring is definitely worth considering.

Pros and Cons

Okay, let's break it down simply with a list of pros and cons for the 2011 Subaru Forester XT Touring:

Pros:

• Turbocharged Engine: Provides quick acceleration and plenty of power.
• All-Wheel Drive: Offers excellent traction in all weather conditions.
• Spacious Interior: Plenty of room for passengers and cargo.
• Comfortable Seats: Makes long drives enjoyable.
• Good Visibility: Easy to see the road and spot potential hazards.
• Standard Features: Many standard features make it a good value for the money.

Cons:

• Fuel Economy: Not the best in its class.
• Ride Quality: Can be a bit firm on rough roads.
• Potential Reliability Issues: Turbocharger and transmission issues can occur.
• Dated Interior: The interior design is not as modern as some competitors.

Final Verdict

So, what’s the final word on the 2011 Subaru Forester XT Touring? Overall, it's a solid choice for anyone looking for a versatile and capable SUV. The turbocharged engine and all-wheel-drive system make it a fun and confident vehicle to drive, while the spacious interior and comfortable seats make it practical for everyday use. While it has some potential reliability issues and the fuel economy isn't great, the Forester XT Touring offers a unique blend of performance and practicality that's hard to find in other SUVs.

If you value performance and don't mind sacrificing a bit of fuel economy, the Forester XT Touring is definitely worth considering. Just be sure to do your homework, get a pre-purchase inspection, and check the service history to ensure that you're getting a well-maintained vehicle. With a little bit of care, the 2011 Subaru Forester XT Touring can be a reliable and enjoyable SUV for years to come.

Is it the perfect SUV? Maybe not. But it offers a compelling package that's hard to ignore. It’s practical, fun, and has that Subaru charm that so many people love. If you're in the market for a used SUV, definitely give the 2011 Subaru Forester XT Touring a look. You might just be surprised at how much you like it!