Subaru Forester Limited Vs. Sport: Which Model Is Right For You?

The Subaru Forester is a popular compact SUV known for its safety, reliability, and all-wheel drive capability. Two of the main trim levels available are the Limited and Sport models. While they share the same base engine and core features, there are some key differences that set them apart.

This comprehensive guide examines the pros, cons, and differences between the Forester Limited and Sport trims to help you determine which best fits your needs and preferences.

A Brief Comparison Table

Feature	Forester Limited	Forester Sport
Suspension	Comfort-tuned	Sport-tuned
Exterior Styling	Upscale chrome accents	Blacked-out sport accents
Seating	Leather upholstery, heated, power driver’s seat	Partial leather/StarTex sport buckets
Safety Tech	Adds blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert	Lacks extra driver assists
Performance	Turbo option available	Turbo option standard

Overview Of The Subaru Forester

First introduced in 1997, the Subaru Forester is now in its fifth generation. The versatile crossover SUV offers ample cargo space, comfortable seating for five, and standard all-wheel drive on all models.

Key attributes of the Forester include:

• All-Wheel Drive – Subaru’s symmetrical AWD system actively distributes power to all four wheels for enhanced traction and control. This also gives the Forester decent off-road capability.
• Fuel Efficiency – Base models are powered by a 2.5L four-cylinder Boxer engine delivering up to 33 mpg highway. Turbocharged versions are available for more power.
• Passenger and Cargo Space – With plenty of rear seat and cargo area space, the Forester easily accommodates passengers and gear. The rear seats fold down to allow for larger items.
• Safety Tech – Standard driver assists include pre-collision braking, lane departure and sway warning, and rearview camera. Higher trims add amenities like blind spot detection and rear cross-traffic alert.

While the Forester lineup shares these core features, the Limited and Sport trims cater to different buyers with their unique styling, performance, and amenities.

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Forester Limited Overview

The mid-tier Limited trim targets buyers wanting upscale styling and features without going fully premium. upgrades over the base model include:

• Distinct exterior styling cues like 18-inch alloy wheels, chrome accents, and body-color side mirrors with integrated turn signals. The overall look is refined and modern.
• Leather-trimmed upholstery for a more upscale cabin environment. Front seats are heated as well for cold weather comfort.
• Power driver’s seat with two-position memory makes it easy to find the perfect driving position.
• Dual-zone automatic climate control allows front passengers to dial in their preferred temperature.
• Blind spot detection with lane change assist and rear cross-traffic alert adds peace of mind when changing lanes or backing up.
• Larger 8-inch multimedia touchscreen with navigation and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto integration.
• Rear subwoofer improves audio quality from the harman/kardon sound system.

The Limited trim starts at $30,795 MSRP including destination fees. Opting for the turbocharged XT model brings more power along with adaptive cruise control and lane centering tech.

Forester Sport Overview

Slotting below the Limited as the sporty flagship option, the Forester Sport trim emphasizes styling and performance over luxury for a starting MSRP of $28,795. Unique attributes include:

• Sporty exterior accents like exclusive 18-inch black alloy wheels, dark gray grille, side mirrors with integrated turn signals, and orange accents. The look is much bolder than the refined Limited.
• Sport-tuned suspension with quicker steering and revised Active Torque Vectoring system improves handling agility and control. Ride is slightly firmer.
• SI-Drive performance management system features Intelligent and Sport modes. Sport sharpens throttle response for livelier acceleration.
• Passenger Sport Recaro seats provide added side bolstering and adjustments for improved comfort and support during spirited driving. Upholstery mixes leather and StarTex for easier maintenance.
• Dual tail pipes with a polished stainless steel finish match the vehicle’s sporty character.
• 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, and SiriusXM capability.
• Available turbocharged engine option just like the Limited XT.

The Sport trim balances everyday comfort with sportier driving dynamics. Fuel economy does take a slight hit over other trims when equipped with the turbo engine.

Key Differences:

While the Limited and Sport share plenty of features, here are some of the main differences:

• Styling – The Limited has an elegant, upscale look while the Sport is much bolder through its exterior accents and interior trim.
• Ride and Handling – Sport tuning on the Sport model provides quicker steering and a firmer suspension. The Limited prioritizes comfort.
• Seating – Limited has leather upholstery and power driver’s seat. Sport has partial leather with mesh inserts and sport bucket front seats.
• Climate Control – Dual-zone automatic on Limited Vs. single-zone manual on Sport.
• Safety Tech – Limited adds blind spot detection with rear cross-traffic alert. Sport skips this.
• Audio – Limited gets a harman/kardon system with rear subwoofer. Sport has a 6-speaker stereo without the amplifier.

Also watch the videoof Subaru Forester Limited!

Which Is Better – Limited Or Sport?

So which Forester trim is the winner – Limited or Sport? There’s no definitive answer since it depends entirely on your priorities.

Choose the Limited if you want:

• A more luxurious and refined interior with added tech features
• The comfiest ride for daily commuting and road trips
• Leather seats and dual-zone climate control creature comforts
• Latest driver assist safety technologies

Opt for the Sport if you are looking for:

• A much bolder, sporty exterior style
• Improved handling and acceleration capabilities
• Interior optimized more for the driver with sport bucket seats
• Standard turbo engine option for boosted performance

Many shoppers hedge their bets by opting for the Touring model. It takes the more premium Limited features and adds the Sport’s turbo engine along with its handling upgrades. But it does so at a higher cost with an MSRP starting at $36,995.

Test driving all three models can help you determine if the Limited and Sport trims align with your wants and needs. Their different personalities and configurations make it easy to choose based on your priorities.

Also Read: Should You Buy Subaru Crosstrek Or Hyundai Tucson?

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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Verdict

The Subaru Forester Limited and Sport trims cater to different buyers with their unique combinations of luxury, sportiness, tech, and performance. Taking into account your budget, lifestyle, and preferences makes it easy to pick the best Forester to fit your needs.

A test drive can help experience the refined Limited versus the sportier, edgier Sport model. Both offer great value for a compact SUV with ample cargo space, standard all-wheel drive, and Subaru’s renowned safety and reliability ratings.