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2016 Subaru Forester: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 13, 2026
The biggest change for the 2016 Subaru Forester is standard touchscreen infotainment across the lineup. This is a light equipment update rather than a redesign, with a few additional convenience upgrades on higher trims.
About the 2016 Subaru Forester
4th generation (2014-2018), third model year, just before the 2017 mid-cycle refresh.
Subaru positions the Forester as a compact SUV that mixes everyday family usefulness with standard all-wheel drive and genuine bad-weather confidence. The core pitch is simple: roomy cabin, easy entry, strong cargo space, good visibility, solid fuel economy, and more trailhead ability than many crossover rivals thanks to generous ground clearance. For most buyers it is the practical, safety-minded choice; for XT shoppers, Subaru adds noticeably quicker acceleration without giving up the Forester’s utility-first personality.
The 2016 Forester ranges from the straightforward 2.5i, with standard all-wheel drive and 8.7 inches of ground clearance, to more comfortable Premium, Limited, and Touring versions with features such as a panoramic moonroof, leather upholstery, and premium audio. The 2.0XT models are the performance-focused choices, pairing a 250-hp turbocharged engine with sportier suspension tuning and selectable drive modes. Touring trims emphasize convenience with keyless access, push-button start, and pin-code vehicle access.
What changed, by category
Tech
The base 2.5i moved to a standard 6.2-inch touchscreen with smartphone app integration. Premium, Limited, Touring, and both XT trims adopted a 7.0-inch touchscreen with an updated interface; Premium and higher versions also received text-messaging support and dual USB ports. Satellite radio became standard on 2.5i Premium and Limited, while the Limited's smartphone interface also became standard. Touring trims gained pin-code vehicle access, upper trims added welcome lighting, and XT models received a performance display showing turbo boost and accelerator position. Heated front seats also became standard on the 2.5i Premium.
2016 Subaru Forester specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, PZEV, 2.5 Liter | 4-Cyl, PZEV, 2.5 Liter | 4-Cyl, PZEV, 2.5 Liter | 4-Cyl, PZEV, 2.5 Liter | 4-Cyl, Turbo, 2.0 Liter | 4-Cyl, Turbo, 2.0 Liter |
| Transmission | Auto, CVT Lineartronic | Auto, CVT Lineartronic | Auto, CVT Lineartronic | Auto, CVT Lineartronic | Auto, CVT Lineartronic | Auto, CVT Lnrtrnc Manual |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD | AWD | AWD | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 24 mpg | 24 mpg | 24 mpg | 24 mpg | 23 mpg | 23 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 32 mpg | 32 mpg | 32 mpg | 32 mpg | 28 mpg | 28 mpg |
| Horsepower | 170 hp | 170 hp | 170 hp | 170 hp | 250 hp | 250 hp |
| Torque | 174 lb-ft | 174 lb-ft | 174 lb-ft | 174 lb-ft | 258 lb-ft | 258 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 1500 lb | 1500 lb | 1500 lb | 1500 lb | 1500 lb | 1500 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 74.7 cu-ft | 68.5 cu-ft | 68.5 cu-ft | 68.5 cu-ft | 68.5 cu-ft | 68.5 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 38 in | 38 in | 38 in | 38 in | 38 in | 38 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | ||||||
| Alarm System | ||||||
| Automatic Emergency Braking | ||||||
| Automatic Leveling Headlights | ||||||
| Blindspot Sensors | ||||||
| Hill Descent Control | ||||||
| Hill Start Assist | ||||||
| Lane Departure Warning | ||||||
| Active Lane Keep Assistance | ||||||
| Rear View Camera | ||||||
| Alloy Wheels | ||||||
| Fog Lights | ||||||
| HID Headlights | ||||||
| Heated Mirrors | ||||||
| Panorama Moon Roof | ||||||
| Power Close Liftgate/Trunk | ||||||
| Privacy Glass | ||||||
| Rear Spoiler | ||||||
| Roof Rails | ||||||
| Navigation System | ||||||
| Premium Audio | ||||||
| Satellite Radio | ||||||
| Smartphone Interface | ||||||
| Automatic Air Conditioning | ||||||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | ||||||
| Heated Front Seats | ||||||
| Leather Seats | ||||||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | ||||||
| Power Driver Seat | ||||||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | ||||||
| Push-Button Engine Start | ||||||
| Remote Start | ||||||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2016 Subaru Forester?
The biggest change is standard touchscreen infotainment throughout the 2016 Forester lineup. The base 2.5i has a 6.2-inch screen, while Premium, Limited, Touring, and XT trims have a 7.0-inch system with a richer interface.
Was the 2016 Subaru Forester redesigned?
No, the 2016 Subaru Forester was not redesigned. It remained part of the fourth generation introduced for 2014 and received a light equipment update ahead of the 2017 refresh.
How is the 2016 Subaru Forester different from the 2015 model?
The 2016 Forester mainly differs through upgraded touchscreen systems and smaller trim-level equipment changes. These include standard satellite radio on 2.5i Premium and Limited, standard heated front seats on 2.5i Premium, pin-code access on Touring trims, welcome lighting on upper trims, and a new performance display on XT models.
Which 2016 Subaru Forester trims have the 7.0-inch touchscreen?
The 2016 Forester 2.5i Premium, 2.5i Limited, 2.5i Touring, 2.0XT Premium, and 2.0XT Touring have the 7.0-inch touchscreen. The base 2.5i uses a 6.2-inch touchscreen instead.
Did the 2016 Subaru Forester get a new engine?
No, the 2016 Forester did not receive a major powertrain change. The 2.5i trims retained a 170-hp 2.5-liter engine, while the quicker 2.0XT models retained a 250-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter engine.
2016 Subaru Forester Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2016 Subaru Forester.
4.3
2016 Subaru Forester
(688 reviews)
“Wonderful vehicle for any new SUV owners with young ones. Very easily get convertible car seats in and secured. Children can get in and out easily. Wonderful sun roof that provides light and enjoyment to those in the rear seat as well. The cargo capacity is amazing and easy to use. Little known reclining rear seat useful for any very big/ tall passengers as well! Overall fantastic vehicle!”
“There is plenty of room, without it feeling too bulky. I feel very safe; I love the EyeSight features. The Bluetooth connection is terrible though (while using for talking on phone). I love the huge sunroof as well. The MPG is pretty good, considering it is an AWD vehicle.”