Executive Summary:
2024 Subaru Forester release date at Planet Subaru: early winter of 2023.
| Model year (and sequence in product cycle): | Change: |
| 2019 (first year) | All new design from the ground up |
| 2020 (second year) | Very similar to prior year |
| 2021 (third year) | Very similar to prior year |
| 2022 (fourth year) | "Refresh" of the exterior and interior |
| 2023 (fifth year) | Very similar to prior year |
| 2024 (first year) | Cycle repeats...all new design from ground up |
However, global supply chain challenges disrupted the entire auto industry for several years, so Subaru's relatively predictable five-year product cadence became less metronomic. The Impreza went seven years before we saw an all-new version, which was long but didn't surprise us because it is not a high-volume seller. When the Crosstrek went six years, we took notice because it is Subaru's third highest-volume car in the United States (behind Outback and Forester that routinely change places at the top of the Subaru sales chart based on production capacity).Â
Subaru has announced that it will not be making any published changes to the 2024 Forester. (Though Subaru has not announced that the following year will be an all-new model, we are betting on it.) Fortunately, the current generation is quite competitive because of a "mid-cycle refresh" made for the 2022 model year, and we're promptly (mostly before they even arrive) selling every Forester that Subaru can send us!
Historically, Subaru builds the Impreza and Crosstrek on a very similar chassis as the Forester, and therefore the general interior layout is very similar among all three vehicles. So if you just can't wait for a sneak peak of the next-generation Forester interior, a good place to get an idea would be the interior of the 2024 Crosstrek. Expect variation in upholstery, colors, etc.
The 2024 Forester delivers the optimal blend of SUV capability and
car-like ride and handling with standard Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel
Drive, Active Torque Vectoring and Vehicle Dynamics Control. The
standard 8.7 inches of ground clearance for Forester (9.2 inches for
Forester Wilderness) is greater than that of many SUVs, yet the compact
SUV maintains a comfortably low step-in height for both front and rear
passenger entry.
All 2024 Forester models are powered by a 2.5-liter SUBARU BOXER® engine paired to a Lineartronic® CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission). The highly efficient engine produces 182 hp and 176 lb-ft of torque, while delivering an EPA-estimated 33 mpg on highways. Standard SI-DRIVE Engine Performance Management system features driver-selectable "Intelligent" and "Sport" modes for a customizable driving experience.
The Forester comes standard with 60/40 split flat-folding seats offering up to 74.2 cubic feet of cargo space. The rear gate opening maximum width is 51.2 inches, allowing customers more flexibility for loading items. A power rear gate is standard on Limited and Touring trim levels and available as an option for Premium, Sport and Wilderness. For additional versatility, the SUV has a towing capacity up to 1,500 pounds (3,000 pounds for Wilderness) and comes standard with Trailer Stability Assist.
Standard EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology features Advanced Adaptive Cruise Control; Pre-Collision Braking; Pre-Collision Throttle Management; Lane Departure and Sway Warning and Lead Vehicle Start Alert. Automatic Emergency Steering is included on models equipped with Blind-Spot Detection with Lane Change Assist and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert. The safety feature works with EyeSight and Blind-Spot Detection to assist with steering control to help avoid a collision at speeds less than 50 mph.
As in prior model years, all Forester models come standard with seven airbags: driver and front passenger frontal airbags, side curtain airbags, side pelvis/torso airbags and a driver's knee airbag.
The Subaru Forester received the 2023 Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) TOP SAFETY PICK award. This marks the 17th consecutive year Forester has earned an IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK (2007-2023) - more than any other small SUV. In addition, Forester received the highest possible rating for front crash prevention from IIHS.Â
The Subaru Forester has the lowest 5-Year Cost to Own in its class and the Best Resale Value in its class according to KBB.com. The compact SUV has held both honors for four years running. Recently, the MotorTrend Buyer's Guide Ultimate Car Rankings (Spring-Summer 2023) gave the compact SUV a top ranking in its class.
Introducing the 2024 Forester
The 2024 Subaru Forester continues the automaker's long-running practice of offering top safety and value across the model line. The 2024 Subaru Forester has a starting price of $26,895 and comes equipped with a long list of standard features including Steering Responsive LED headlights (low and high beam) with High Beam Assist; Rear Seat Reminder; remote keyless entry system with engine immobilizer; power windows, door locks and side mirrors; a multi-function display; and combination meter with color LCD.
The SUBARU STARLINK® 6.5-inch Multimedia system with a high-resolution touchscreen; smartphone integration with Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto compatibility; and Bluetooth® hands-free streaming and phone connectivity is standard. The front center console comes equipped with a USB-A input/charge port and 3.5mm auxiliary jack. Audio and Bluetooth® controls for phone and multimedia are conveniently located on the steering wheel.
A popular option package is available on Forester that adds 17-inch silver-finished alloy wheels and black-finished roof rails with convenient tie-down points. The roof rails offer a dynamic capacity of 176 pounds with a 700-pound static load limit, which is robust enough for a rooftop tent. The option package is priced at $625 MSRP.
Forester Premium
The 2024 Forester Premium builds on the Base trim with more comfort, convenience, and technology for a starting price of $30,095. The Premium adds a standard All-Weather Package with heated front seats, heated exterior power-adjustable exterior mirrors and a windshield wiper de-icer. A 10-way, power-adjustable driver's seat; 17-inch alloy wheels in black with machine finish; X-MODE® with Hill-Descent Control; panoramic power moonroof; leather-wrapped steering wheel; ladder-style roof rails; and Keyless Access with Push-button Start are also standard on Premium. New for 2024, LED fog lights and a Crystal Black Silica rear roof spoiler are standard.Â
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The Premium upgrades to the SUBARU STARLINK® 6.5-inch Multimedia Plus system with high-resolution touchscreen, smartphone integration with Apple CarPlay®, Android Auto™ and Bluetooth® hands-free phone and audio streaming connectivity; HD Radio®; SiriusXM® and TravelLink® (4-month free Platinum Plan subscription); and CD player. The front center console is equipped with dual USB-A input/charge ports.
The Premium offers a single option package that includes Blind-Spot Detection with Lane Change Assist and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert; Automatic Emergency Steering; dual USB-A charge ports in the rear center console; and a Power Rear Gate with automatic close and height memory. The MSRP for the package is $1,165.
Forester Sport
The 2024 Forester Sport, which is priced from $31,665 MSRP, adds unique interior and exterior elements to set it apart from the Forester range with an eye toward customers looking for a practical SUV with flair. The Forester Sport adds exclusive gloss black exterior trim in the front and rear, Â black-finished 18-inch alloy wheels and a black rear roof spoiler. On the sides, orange accents adorn the cladding and roof-rail mounts. Inside, the Forester Sport features unique dark gray cloth upholstery with orange contrast stitching on the seats, shift knob, steering wheel and center console.
For drivability, the Forester Sport adds SUBARU SI-DRIVE with driver-selectable "Intelligent" and "Sport Sharp" modes. For more engaging drives, the Lineartronic CVT includes steering wheel-mounted paddle-shift controls with 7-speed manual shifting. The Sport also upgrades to dual-function X-MODE for more off-road confidence. Blind-Spot Detection with Lane Change Assist and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert comes standard along with Automatic Emergency Steering.Â
An option package for Forester Sport includes the 8.0-inch SUBARU STARLINK Multimedia Plus system; Harman Kardon® premium audio with 576-watt equivalent amp and nine speakers; Power Rear Gate; and Reverse Automatic Braking for $1,645 MSRP.
Forester Wilderness
The rugged Forester Wilderness returns for 2024 and adds a bevy of exterior, interior, and mechanical additions for adventure-seekers starting at $34,720. The Forester Wilderness does not sacrifice the SUV's quiet, car-like ride and exceptional outward vision with its increased capability, making it the perfect companion on the way to the trailhead and beyond.
The 2024 Wilderness increases ground clearance to 9.2 inches thanks to longer coil springs and shock absorbers. The enhanced suspension also increases trail capability while delivering the comfortable ride the Forester is known for. The Wilderness subs in 17-inch matte-black alloy wheels wrapped in All-Terrain Yokohama GEOLANDAR® tires for increased traction on muddy or wet roads or trails. A full-size spare is tucked underneath the cargo area for added confidence off the pavement.
The Wilderness also gets a unique front fascia with hexagonal front grille and hexagonal LED fog lights, as well as a useful anti-glare hood decal in matte black to diffuse direct sunlight on the trails. Larger cladding around the wheels and a front skid plate help to protect the Forester Wilderness off-road, while offering a visually distinct appearance from the rest of the lineup.
Inside, water-resistant StarTex® seating surfaces, all-weather mats, and a cargo tray are all well-prepared for muddy feet and gear with wash-and-ready attitudes. The Wilderness also benefits from more robust ladder-type roof rails that can support up to 800 pounds when stationary, which is an increase of 100 pounds above the standard roof rails.
The Forester Wilderness offers a smart option package with an 8.0-inch SUBARU STARLINK®®® Multimedia Navigation system, Harman Kardon premium audio with 576-watt equivalent amp and nine speakers and Power Rear Gate for $1,850 MSRP.
Forester Limited
Starting from $33,775, the 2024 Forester Limited is well-equipped with convenience features that make it a standout among competitors without sacrificing capability. The Limited builds on the Premium trim level and adds 18-inch aluminum alloy wheels in black with machine finish, body-colored exterior mirrors with integrated turn signals, and black geometric-textured fog light covers, the last of which are new for 2024.
The Limited is thoughtfully equipped with Blind-Spot Detection with Lane Change Assist and Rear Cross Traffic Alert; SUBARU STARLINK 8.0-inch Multimedia Plus System; dual USB-A charge ports in the rear center console; dual-zone automatic climate control with voice-activated controls; one-touch folding rear seatbacks; and Power Rear Gate. Inside, the Limited is finished with leather-trimmed upholstery, including a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift lever handle and a center dash panel finished with silver metallic and gloss black. Â
A single option package for Limited adds the 8.0-inch SUBARU STARLINK Multimedia Navigation system, Harman Kardon premium audio with 576-watt equivalent amp and nine speakers, Reverse Automatic Braking and a heated steering wheel for $1,695 MSRP.Â
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Forester Touring
The Forester Limited sits atop the range for 2024 and is equipped with standout features making it equally comfortable and capable. Priced at $37,195, the Touring offers convenience features not typically found at its price point including the innovative DriverFocus® Distraction Mitigation System including gesture control capability that allows the driver to raise and lower the automatic climate control temperature via hand gestures.
Other convenience features include rear heated seats at the outboard positions, a heated steering wheel, black perforated leather-trimmed upholstery with silver stitching or saddle brown perforated leather-trimmed upholstery with silver and brown stitching. The driver's seat is 10-way power adjustable with power lumbar adjustment and two-driver memory and the passenger seat is 8-way power adjustable.
The Forester Touring is visually distinct from the rest of the lineup with 18-inch alloy wheels in dark gray with machine finish, satin chrome exterior folding mirrors with integrated turn signals, and LED fog lights with black and chrome textured covers. The Forester Touring includes roof rails with a silver finish; chrome exterior badging; and front, rear and side valances with silver metallic finish.
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All 2024 Forester models are powered by a 2.5-liter SUBARU BOXER® engine paired to a Lineartronic® CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission). The highly efficient engine produces 182 hp and 176 lb-ft of torque, while delivering an EPA-estimated 33 mpg on highways. Standard SI-DRIVE Engine Performance Management system features driver-selectable "Intelligent" and "Sport" modes for a customizable driving experience.
The Forester comes standard with 60/40 split flat-folding seats offering up to 74.2 cubic feet of cargo space. The rear gate opening maximum width is 51.2 inches, allowing customers more flexibility for loading items. A power rear gate is standard on Limited and Touring trim levels and available as an option for Premium, Sport and Wilderness. For additional versatility, the SUV has a towing capacity up to 1,500 pounds (3,000 pounds for Wilderness) and comes standard with Trailer Stability Assist.
Standard EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology features Advanced Adaptive Cruise Control; Pre-Collision Braking; Pre-Collision Throttle Management; Lane Departure and Sway Warning and Lead Vehicle Start Alert. Automatic Emergency Steering is included on models equipped with Blind-Spot Detection with Lane Change Assist and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert. The safety feature works with EyeSight and Blind-Spot Detection to assist with steering control to help avoid a collision at speeds less than 50 mph.
As in prior model years, all Forester models come standard with seven airbags: driver and front passenger frontal airbags, side curtain airbags, side pelvis/torso airbags and a driver's knee airbag.
The Subaru Forester received the 2023 Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) TOP SAFETY PICK award. This marks the 17th consecutive year Forester has earned an IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK (2007-2023) - more than any other small SUV. In addition, Forester received the highest possible rating for front crash prevention from IIHS.Â
The Subaru Forester has the lowest 5-Year Cost to Own in its class and the Best Resale Value in its class according to KBB.com. The compact SUV has held both honors for four years running. Recently, the MotorTrend Buyer's Guide Ultimate Car Rankings (Spring-Summer 2023) gave the compact SUV a top ranking in its class.
Introducing the 2024 Forester
The 2024 Subaru Forester continues the automaker's long-running practice of offering top safety and value across the model line. The 2024 Subaru Forester has a starting price of $26,895 and comes equipped with a long list of standard features including Steering Responsive LED headlights (low and high beam) with High Beam Assist; Rear Seat Reminder; remote keyless entry system with engine immobilizer; power windows, door locks and side mirrors; a multi-function display; and combination meter with color LCD.
The SUBARU STARLINK® 6.5-inch Multimedia system with a high-resolution touchscreen; smartphone integration with Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto compatibility; and Bluetooth® hands-free streaming and phone connectivity is standard. The front center console comes equipped with a USB-A input/charge port and 3.5mm auxiliary jack. Audio and Bluetooth® controls for phone and multimedia are conveniently located on the steering wheel.
A popular option package is available on Forester that adds 17-inch silver-finished alloy wheels and black-finished roof rails with convenient tie-down points. The roof rails offer a dynamic capacity of 176 pounds with a 700-pound static load limit, which is robust enough for a rooftop tent. The option package is priced at $625 MSRP.
Forester Premium
The 2024 Forester Premium builds on the Base trim with more comfort, convenience, and technology for a starting price of $30,095. The Premium adds a standard All-Weather Package with heated front seats, heated exterior power-adjustable exterior mirrors and a windshield wiper de-icer. A 10-way, power-adjustable driver's seat; 17-inch alloy wheels in black with machine finish; X-MODE® with Hill-Descent Control; panoramic power moonroof; leather-wrapped steering wheel; ladder-style roof rails; and Keyless Access with Push-button Start are also standard on Premium. New for 2024, LED fog lights and a Crystal Black Silica rear roof spoiler are standard.Â
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The Premium upgrades to the SUBARU STARLINK® 6.5-inch Multimedia Plus system with high-resolution touchscreen, smartphone integration with Apple CarPlay®, Android Auto™ and Bluetooth® hands-free phone and audio streaming connectivity; HD Radio®; SiriusXM® and TravelLink® (4-month free Platinum Plan subscription); and CD player. The front center console is equipped with dual USB-A input/charge ports.
The Premium offers a single option package that includes Blind-Spot Detection with Lane Change Assist and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert; Automatic Emergency Steering; dual USB-A charge ports in the rear center console; and a Power Rear Gate with automatic close and height memory. The MSRP for the package is $1,165.
Forester Sport
The 2024 Forester Sport, which is priced from $31,665 MSRP, adds unique interior and exterior elements to set it apart from the Forester range with an eye toward customers looking for a practical SUV with flair. The Forester Sport adds exclusive gloss black exterior trim in the front and rear, Â black-finished 18-inch alloy wheels and a black rear roof spoiler. On the sides, orange accents adorn the cladding and roof-rail mounts. Inside, the Forester Sport features unique dark gray cloth upholstery with orange contrast stitching on the seats, shift knob, steering wheel and center console.
For drivability, the Forester Sport adds SUBARU SI-DRIVE with driver-selectable "Intelligent" and "Sport Sharp" modes. For more engaging drives, the Lineartronic CVT includes steering wheel-mounted paddle-shift controls with 7-speed manual shifting. The Sport also upgrades to dual-function X-MODE for more off-road confidence. Blind-Spot Detection with Lane Change Assist and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert comes standard along with Automatic Emergency Steering.Â
An option package for Forester Sport includes the 8.0-inch SUBARU STARLINK Multimedia Plus system; Harman Kardon® premium audio with 576-watt equivalent amp and nine speakers; Power Rear Gate; and Reverse Automatic Braking for $1,645 MSRP.
Forester Wilderness
The rugged Forester Wilderness returns for 2024 and adds a bevy of exterior, interior, and mechanical additions for adventure-seekers starting at $34,720. The Forester Wilderness does not sacrifice the SUV's quiet, car-like ride and exceptional outward vision with its increased capability, making it the perfect companion on the way to the trailhead and beyond.
The 2024 Wilderness increases ground clearance to 9.2 inches thanks to longer coil springs and shock absorbers. The enhanced suspension also increases trail capability while delivering the comfortable ride the Forester is known for. The Wilderness subs in 17-inch matte-black alloy wheels wrapped in All-Terrain Yokohama GEOLANDAR® tires for increased traction on muddy or wet roads or trails. A full-size spare is tucked underneath the cargo area for added confidence off the pavement.
The Wilderness also gets a unique front fascia with hexagonal front grille and hexagonal LED fog lights, as well as a useful anti-glare hood decal in matte black to diffuse direct sunlight on the trails. Larger cladding around the wheels and a front skid plate help to protect the Forester Wilderness off-road, while offering a visually distinct appearance from the rest of the lineup.
Inside, water-resistant StarTex® seating surfaces, all-weather mats, and a cargo tray are all well-prepared for muddy feet and gear with wash-and-ready attitudes. The Wilderness also benefits from more robust ladder-type roof rails that can support up to 800 pounds when stationary, which is an increase of 100 pounds above the standard roof rails.
The Forester Wilderness offers a smart option package with an 8.0-inch SUBARU STARLINK®®® Multimedia Navigation system, Harman Kardon premium audio with 576-watt equivalent amp and nine speakers and Power Rear Gate for $1,850 MSRP.
Forester Limited
Starting from $33,775, the 2024 Forester Limited is well-equipped with convenience features that make it a standout among competitors without sacrificing capability. The Limited builds on the Premium trim level and adds 18-inch aluminum alloy wheels in black with machine finish, body-colored exterior mirrors with integrated turn signals, and black geometric-textured fog light covers, the last of which are new for 2024.
The Limited is thoughtfully equipped with Blind-Spot Detection with Lane Change Assist and Rear Cross Traffic Alert; SUBARU STARLINK 8.0-inch Multimedia Plus System; dual USB-A charge ports in the rear center console; dual-zone automatic climate control with voice-activated controls; one-touch folding rear seatbacks; and Power Rear Gate. Inside, the Limited is finished with leather-trimmed upholstery, including a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift lever handle and a center dash panel finished with silver metallic and gloss black. Â
A single option package for Limited adds the 8.0-inch SUBARU STARLINK Multimedia Navigation system, Harman Kardon premium audio with 576-watt equivalent amp and nine speakers, Reverse Automatic Braking and a heated steering wheel for $1,695 MSRP.Â
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Forester Touring
The Forester Limited sits atop the range for 2024 and is equipped with standout features making it equally comfortable and capable. Priced at $37,195, the Touring offers convenience features not typically found at its price point including the innovative DriverFocus® Distraction Mitigation System including gesture control capability that allows the driver to raise and lower the automatic climate control temperature via hand gestures.
Other convenience features include rear heated seats at the outboard positions, a heated steering wheel, black perforated leather-trimmed upholstery with silver stitching or saddle brown perforated leather-trimmed upholstery with silver and brown stitching. The driver's seat is 10-way power adjustable with power lumbar adjustment and two-driver memory and the passenger seat is 8-way power adjustable.
The Forester Touring is visually distinct from the rest of the lineup with 18-inch alloy wheels in dark gray with machine finish, satin chrome exterior folding mirrors with integrated turn signals, and LED fog lights with black and chrome textured covers. The Forester Touring includes roof rails with a silver finish; chrome exterior badging; and front, rear and side valances with silver metallic finish.
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| 2024 Subaru Forester | ||||
| Trim | Transmission | Applicable Options | MSRP | MSRP + Destination & Delivery ($1,295) |
| Forester | CVT | 01, 02 | $26,895 | $28,190 |
| Forester Premium | CVT | 11, 15 | $30,095 | $31,390 |
| Forester Sport | CVT | 21, 24 | $31,665 | $32,960 |
| Forester Wilderness | CVT | 21, 22 | $34,720 | $36,015 |
| Forester Limited | CVT | 31, 32 | $33,775 | $35,070 |
| Forester Touring | CVT | 41 | $37,195 | $38,490 |
| 2024 Subaru Forester Option Packages | ||
| Forester | ||
| CODE 01: Standard Model | N/A | |
| CODE 02: Alloy Wheel Package + Roof Rails | $625 | |
| Forester Premium | ||
| CODE 11: Standard Model | N/A | |
| CODE 15: BSD/RCTA + Power Rear Gate | $1,165 | |
| Forester Sport | Â | |
| CODE 21: Standard Model | N/A | |
| CODE 24: RAB + 8-inch Multimedia Plus + Harman Kardon Speaker System + Power Rear Gate |
$1,645 | |
| Forester Wilderness | ||
| CODE 21: Standard Model | N/A | |
| CODE 22: 8-inch Multimedia Plus + Harman Kardon Speaker System + Power Rear Gate |
$1,850 | |
| Forester Limited | ||
| CODE 31: Standard Model | N/A | |
| CODE 32: RAB + 8-inch Multimedia with Nav + Harman Kardon Speaker System + Heated Steering Wheel | $1,695 | |
| Forester Touring | ||
| CODE 41: Standard Model | N/A | |
These are the changes that Subaru has made to prior Foresters.
Forester Links:
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Foresters through the years:Â Â Â
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Forester Links:
   |    |
Exclusive Planet Benefit:Â Â Planet Passport Program
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Foresters through the years:Â Â Â
 2019 through 2023 Â | The
first Forester built on Subaru's "Global Platform," handling agility
improves and cabin noise decreases. It's Subaru's safest-ever Forester,
loaded with technology including first-in-its-class DriverFocus, a driver-distraction mitigation system. Eyesight active safety suite is standard. Horsepower increases to 182 and fuel economy lifts to 33mpg highway. |
  2014 through 2018 | Slightly larger inside and out than the generation it replaces, Introducing a continuously variable transmission lifted fuel economy to 32 mpg from 27. Other new features include the Eyesight driver assistance system, power tailgate, and X-Mode traction control. Outward visibility remains tops in the industry.  |
 2009 through 2013 | Prior Foresters felt a little cramped, but sales took off with this larger Forester, bigger than its predecessor in every dimension. Subaru poured on the technology, with standard Vehicle Dynamics Control and six airbags. Optional equipment included touchscreen navigation and Bluetooth. |
 2003 through 2008 | Size remained the same, but Subaru modernized everything. Side air bags became standard on every model, the interior moved upscale, ride quality improved, and appearance moved from utilitarian to stylish. |
 1998 through 2002 | Subaru created the Forester on the Impreza platform, installing a square body and bigger engine. Along with the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V (both introduced in 1997), Subaru pioneered the "Small Crossover" segment. It combined the ride height, style, and versatility of a truck-based SUV without the poor fuel economy and sloppy handling. |
         
 For
anyone in the Boston metro area, including the north shore and south shore, Planet is
your source for info about revisions to the 2024 Forester, including
sale and release dates, leasing info, and great deals.
