Everything You Need to Know About the 2020 Subaru Forester Sport AWD
Why the Sport Trim Stands Out
The 2020 Forester Sport isn’t just a slightly sportier badge; it’s Subaru’s answer to drivers who crave a bit more punch without sacrificing the brand’s legendary all‑wheel‑drive confidence. Under the hood sits the same 2.5‑liter BOXER engine found in the base model, but the Sport adds a tuned exhaust, a lower‑stance suspension, and a dash of visual flair that makes daily commuting feel a little more exciting.
Even if you’re not chasing lap times, those subtle upgrades translate to sharper steering response and a more engaging soundtrack when you hit the open road. And because the AWD system remains unchanged, you still get that rock‑solid traction that’s become synonymous with Subaru.
Powertrain and Performance
The heart of the 2020 Forester Sport is a 2.5‑liter horizontally opposed four‑cylinder that delivers 170 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and 174 lb‑ft of torque at 4,000 rpm. It’s coupled with a Lineartronic CVT that mimics traditional gear shifts, thanks to Subaru’s “tuned shift points” for the Sport variant.
- 0‑60 mph: Roughly 9.5 seconds – respectable for a compact SUV.
- Fuel economy: EPA‑rated 24 mpg city / 32 mpg highway.
- AWD system: Subaru’s Symmetrical All‑Wheel Drive with active torque split.
What feels different is the sport‑tuned steering rack, which trims a few degrees of play, making corner entry feel more deliberate. Pair that with a slightly firmer rear stabilizer bar, and the Forester Sport handles bumpier roads with a confidence that the standard trim sometimes lacks.
Exterior Tweaks That Turn Heads
Visually, the Sport trim adds a black roof, roof rails, and black side mirrors, creating a cohesive masked‑look that’s both sleek and functional. The 18‑inch machined‑aluminum alloy wheels replace the standard 17‑inch steel, and the rear spoiler—though modest—helps reduce lift at higher speeds.
Inside, you’ll notice dark‑gray upholstery with brushed‑aluminum accents on the door panels and dashboard. The front seats are bolstered for a tighter fit, which is a welcome touch when you’re carving through mountain passes or simply navigating tight city streets.
Technology and Comfort Features
Subaru didn’t skimp on tech for the Sport. Standard equipment includes a 6.5‑inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, a rear‑view camera, and Bluetooth hands‑free phone and audio streaming. The available STARLINK satellite navigation system adds real‑time traffic updates, a handy feature if your daily route includes unpredictable rush‑hour snarls.
Climate control is dual‑zone, letting the driver and front passenger set their own temperature preferences. Rear passengers get a separate USB port, a small but appreciated convenience during longer trips.
Safety: The Subtle Yet Powerful Backbone
Every 2020 Forester, Sport included, comes equipped with Subaru’s EyeSight Driver Assist Technology. This suite bundles adaptive cruise control, lane‑keep assist, pre‑collision braking, and a gentle “lead‑car” distance controller. In independent crash tests, the Forester earned top marks for both adult and child occupant protection.
Additional safety touches specific to the Sport trim are limited, but the underlying platform ensures you’re never compromising on protection while enjoying the added sportiness.
Practicality Meets Adventure
One of the Forester’s biggest selling points is cargo space, and the Sport doesn’t lose any of that. With the rear seats upright, you get 31.5 cubic feet of storage; folding the bench flat expands the room to a generous 76.1 cubic feet. The low loading height—just 20 inches from the ground—makes loading strollers or gear a breeze.
Ground clearance stays at 8.7 inches, giving you confidence on gravel roads or shallow snowbanks. Combined with the permanent AWD, the Forester Sport can handle a light off‑road venture without demanding a dedicated 4x4 system.
Driving Experience: What Owners Say
Real‑world feedback often highlights the “balanced feel” of the Sport. Drivers appreciate the firmer steering and subtle rear‑suspension tweak, noting that the vehicle feels more planted on winding backroads. Yet, the ride remains compliant enough for daily errands, thanks to Subaru’s well‑tuned shock absorbers.
Fuel economy, while not class‑leading, is competitive for an SUV with standard AWD. Owners also love the quiet cabin at highway speeds, a result of improved sound‑deadening materials introduced in the 2020 refresh.
Pricing and Trim Comparison
The 2020 Forester Sport starts around $27,800 MSRP before destination fees and incentives. This places it roughly $2,000 above the base Premium trim, yet still well under many rivals that charge a premium for comparable AWD capability.
- Base Premium: Cloth upholstery, 17‑inch steel wheels, basic infotainment.
- Sport: Dark‑gray interior, 18‑inch alloy wheels, sport‑tuned suspension, enhanced exterior styling.
- Limited (top‑of‑line): Leather seats, navigation, power liftgate, premium audio.
If you’re hunting for a blend of practicality, safety, and a dash of excitement, the Sport often hits that sweet spot without the extra price tag of the Limited.
Maintenance and Reliability Outlook
Subaru’s reputation for long‑lasting engines holds true for the 2020 Forester Sport. Routine oil changes every 6,000 miles, a brake fluid flush every 30,000 miles, and the standard 30,000‑mile timing‑belt inspection keep the powertrain humming. The CVT, while occasionally a point of contention, has improved in durability thanks to refined torque converter design introduced in 2019.
Owners report low incidences of major repairs, and the vehicle’s resale value remains strong—often retaining about 65% of its original price after five years.
Is the 2020 Forester Sport Right for You?
If you value a vehicle that can shuttle the kids, tackle weekend hikes, and still feel a bit sporty on the commuter stretch, the 2020 Subaru Forester Sport AWD makes a compelling case. It marries Subaru’s safety DNA with modest performance upgrades, all wrapped in a package that’s both functional and eye‑catching.
Of course, if you crave outright horsepower or a more aggressive chassis, you might look toward a crossover with a turbocharged engine. But for most drivers seeking confidence in rain, snow, or gravel, while enjoying a touch of added flair, the Forester Sport hits the mark.
