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2023 Subaru Forester Trim Levels, Configurations & Comparisons.

2023 Subaru Forester Trim Levels, Configurations & Comparisons: Base vs Premium and Sport, Wilderness vs Limited and Touring
Reviewed & fact checked by
James Murdoch

What 2023 Subaru Forester Trim Should You Buy? What is the Difference Between Trims?

The 2023 Subaru Forester is for anyone who wants the perfect combination of on-road practicality and off-road exploration. It's designed to fit into any lifestyle, from corporate professional to stay-at-home parent - no adventure too great or challenge too small. So if you're looking for a car that can keep up with your ever changing schedule then look no further than the all new multi faceted Forester.

Wherever life takes you, the new 2023 Subaru Forester is a great vehicle to have by your side. This mid-size SUV can tow up to 3,000 pounds, generate up to 182 hp, and comes with signature Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. It offers a smooth ride that is complimented by a spacious interior and even acceleration. Great fuel economy, a unique boxy design, and innovative safety are just a few more features the new 2023 Subaru Forester offers for you to enjoy, as well.

Subaru's 2023 Forester has something to offer everyone - with its six trim options, ranging from the Base model to Touring, you'll feel confident there is an SUV tailored just for your needs. Whether it be performance-driven or focused more on comfort and convenience features; this diverse selection of trims allows drivers to fine tune their experience behind the wheel.

Compare the Forester Base vs Premium Trims. What is the Difference?

The Base trim has amazing features and an affordable price point that make it accessible to all. It's powered by a fuel-efficient 2.5-liter SUBARU BOXER 4-cylinder engine, which offers 33 highway mpg and 26 city mpg - perfect for your daily commute or weekend road trips alike. Plus, its signature symmetrical all wheel drive makes every journey safe, smooth and secure no matter what terrain you're tackling along the way.
Additionally, you'll find efficient enhancements like Vehicle Dynamics Control and EyeSight Driver Assist Technology in both the Base and Premium trims of the 2023 Subaru Forester. SUBARU STARLINK multimedia is also a standard feature for the Base and Premium Forester trims.

These two Forester trims may seem interestingly similar, but there are a few ways in which these two models differ, as well. For instance, a panoramic power moonroof is standard for the Premium trim, but this amenity isn't offered at all for the Base model. The Premium Forester also boasts standard keyless access with a push-button start, an optional power rear liftgate with automatic close, and optional dual rear charging ports, which are amenities that aren't seen in the 2023 Subaru Forester Base model at all.

Compare the Forester Premium vs Sport Trim Levels. What is the Difference?

The 2023 Subaru Forester offers two distinct trim levels – Premium and Sport. Despite the minimal price gap between them, these trims boast a world of difference in terms of standard and optional features. Carrying over from all new version Foresters is the high-powered 2.5-liter SUBARU BOXER engine; however, the sporty Sports Trim ups the game with its top tier Lineartronic CVT boasting Adaptive Control along with 7 manual speed choices.

Actually, the 2023 Subaru Forester Sport is advanced in many ways compared to its relative Premium trim. The Sport features transmission paddle shifters, standard dual rear USB charging ports, and a standard removal cargo tray area. In the Sport trim, you'll also find an optional upgrade to SUBARU STARLINK 8.0-inch Multimedia Plus and an optional Harman Kardon premium audio system.

With its sleek black aluminum alloy wheels, the 2023 Subaru Forester Premium is a sight to behold. But if you're looking for an extra pop of style and comfort, step up to the Sport trim with upgraded 18-inch alloys - plus a luxurious leather-wrapped shifter handle as standard. Onboard fabrics are also fancier than ever before: plush cloth in Premium models transformed into sporty orange stitched seating material on Sports trims.

Compare the Forester Sport vs Wilderness Trims. What is the Difference?

The 2023 Subaru Forester is the perfect marriage of bold athleticism and opulent luxury. Offering a choice between two amazing trims, buyers can get all they need in an SUV that won't break the bank - with an added Sport trim boasting more amenities than ever before, as well as one luxurious step up to Wilderness that truly brings sophistication wherever you go.

With the 2023 Subaru Forester Wilderness, adventure awaits! Enjoy more freedom with a maximum towing capacity of up to 3,000 pounds and off-road capabilities provided by its 9.2 inch ground clearance. Plus Lineartronic CVT with Adaptive Control gives you greater control while 8-Speed Manual Mode adds another layer of versatility as you explore further distances than ever before - all without sacrificing fuel economy.

Revamp your ride with the 2023 Subaru Forester Wilderness. Its 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels boast an eye-catching onyx matte finish, or up the ante and impress even more with 18" alloys in Sport trim – complete with stunning LED fog lights for extra flair! Let your car make a statement that won't go unnoticed.

Compare the Forester Wilderness vs Limited Trim Levels. What is the Difference?

The 2023 Subaru Forester's aesthetics are captivating in their own right, but it is the Limited model that truly stands out. From its StarTex water-repellent upholstery and standard leather trim to a heated steering wheel (offered as an optional feature), this vehicle goes above and beyond many of its predecessors' attributes.

In terms of convenience, the Limited edges over the Wilderness trim of the 2023 Subaru Forester by just a bit. Both the Wilderness and Limited trims offer dual-zone automatic climate controls, SUBARU STARLINK 8.0-inch Multimedia with optional navigation, and an optional Harman Kardon premium audio system. Yet, the power rear gate with automatic close comes standard for the Limited while being optional for the Wilderness. Also, optional packages are offered for the Limited trim that the Wilderness won't gain you access to.

The 2023 Subaru Forester Limited and Wilderness trims offer a wealth of shared features, such as their instrument cluster layout/color multifunction displays, auto on/off headlights, multi-function center console, 4G LTE Wi-Fi capability and Brake Assist. However one unique difference between the two is that Reverse Automatic Braking comes standard in the Limited trim but can be upgraded to optional status for those opting for Wilderness.

Compare the Forester Limited vs Touring. What is the Difference?

Looking for the most luxurious 2023 Subaru Forester? Look no further than its Limited and Touring trims! Both promise to provide an impressive driving experience, with near-identical powertrain features. However, discerning drivers should be aware that these two models boast a range of amenities which may make it tricky to decide between them.

Variation between the Limited and Touring models of the 2023 Subaru Forester lies in the design and comfort details between these trims. 18-inch wheels are found on both, but in the Limited you'll see a black machine finish compared to the dark gray machine finish of the Touring. Yet, both models still come standard with all-season tires. Fog lights are another standard feature of the Limited Forester that is upgraded to LED fog lights in the Touring trim.

Standard body-colored mirrors add to the aesthetic of the Limited Forester for 2023, but these accessories are replaced with satin chrome side mirrors with integrated turn signals in the Touring Forester model. 10-way adjustable front driver's seats are standard in both the Limited and Touring trims, but the Touring upgrades the 4-way passenger seat adjustability to 8-way passenger seat adjustability options. Heated rear outboard seats, a heated steering wheel, and a 2-position driver's seat with power memory are all standard for the 2023 Subaru Forester Touring, whereas these features are merely optional for the Limited Forester model.

Final Thoughts

For 2023, the Subaru Forester offers drivers a bevy of choices when it comes to their perfect model. Boasting an array of signature SUBARU BOXER engines in all trims, each version provides its own unique combination of style and comfort as well as convenience and capability -- capabilities that set them apart from one another beyond just engine power alone! So for those looking for the ideal ride tailored specifically to them, take time selecting among these comprehensive options - you won't regret your choice with this class-leading crossover SUV.

Yet, when you go to purchase a 2023 Subaru Forester you'll have to choose a model. So, when it comes down to it we think you'll get the most bang for your buck out of the 2023 Subaru Forester Wilderness. This model differentiates itself right away by offering a 3,000 lb. towing capacity that other Forester trims for 2023 can't match. Aside from its ample towing power, the Wilderness trim has just enough convenience amenities to elevate its comfort level without incorporating too large of a difference in its price tag.

The 2023 Subaru Forester Wilderness is the perfect median option for this SUV model. While there are trims that may be less costly or others that are better equipped, the Wilderness trim is the most balanced option we see in the 2023 lineup of the Subaru Forester. Don't just take our word for it, though. View all of the 2023 Subaru Forester models in person, take them for a test drive, and make the ultimate decision for yourself. We know you'll love the new 2023 Subaru Forester, though, and you'll have six different admirable trims to choose from.


Previous Year Trim Configurations:

2022 Subaru Forester Trim Levels