Subaru Announces a Price Hike & New Features for 2016 Forester

2016 Subaru Forester (Credit: © Subaru )

Subaru is continuing its rollout of its 2016 models, and the latest to get a price tag and some new goodies is the 2016 Forester. This compact SUV has been one of the brand’s best-selling vehicles, so it needs to tread carefully with any updates and price hikes.

For 2016, the Forester receives only minor updates. Likely the most obvious of the updates are the new Starlink audio systems. These systems work to integrate your smartphone with the audio system, allowing it to stream various apps, like Pandora or iHeartRadio. It also displays text messages, and has voice-recognition for audio and navigation controls.

The base Forester 2.5i comes standard with the new Starlink 6.2 system that includes a 6.2-inch touchscreen, AM/FM/SiriusXM capabilities, Bluetooth, iPod control with iTunes tagging, and more. This screen also acts as the standard rearview camera.

Premium, Limited, and Touring models get an upgraded Starlink 7.0 system, which includes a high-resolution 7-inch touchscreen with multi-touch gesture control, text messaging, a calendar, and more. This system also allows the addition of optional navigation.

Also new for 2016 are updated Starlink security systems for the Premium, Limited, and Touring trim levels. These updated systems come in two packages: Starlink Safety Plus and Starlink Safety Plus & Security Plus. The former includes SOS emergency assistance, enhanced roadside assistance, automatic collision notification, maintenance notifications, a monthly vehicle health report, and diagnostic alerts.

The Starlink Safety Plus & Security Plus package puts your mind at ease with stolen vehicle recovery service, vehicle security alarm notification, remote lock and unlock, remote panic, and remote vehicle locator.

The engines and transmissions all carry over for 2016, including the 2.5-liter four-cylinder that delivers 170 horsepower and 174 pound-feet or torque. This engine also turns in up to 24 mpg city and 32 mpg highway. The optional 2.0-liter turbocharged four-pot is also still available, and it delivers 250 horses and 258 pound-feet of twist.

With the limited number of updates, it is no surprise that the base price of the Forest increased by just $200 to $22,395. Full 2016 Forester pricing details are as follows:

• Forester 2.5i 6MT $22,395
• Forester 2.5i CVT $23,395
• Forester 2.5i Premium 6MT $25,295
• Forester 2.5i Premium CVT $25,795
• Forester 2.5i Limited CVT $28,795
• Forester 2.5i Touring CVT $30,795
• Forester 2.0XT Premium CVT $29,195
• Forester 2.0XT Touring CVT $33,795