2019 Forester Sport Vs Premium: Which Subaru Is Right For You?

by Alex Braham 63 views

Hey guys! Are you trying to decide between the 2019 Subaru Forester Sport and the Premium trim? You've come to the right place! Both are fantastic SUVs, but they cater to slightly different needs and preferences. Let's dive deep into a detailed comparison so you can make the best choice for your lifestyle.

A Head-to-Head Comparison: 2019 Forester Sport vs Premium

Choosing the right car can feel overwhelming, but breaking it down makes the process way easier. We'll look at what each trim offers in terms of features, performance, and overall value. By the end of this, you'll have a clear picture of which Forester model fits you best.

Performance and Powertrain

Let's start with what's under the hood! Both the 2019 Subaru Forester Sport and Premium trims come standard with the same engine: a 2.5-liter four-cylinder BOXER engine producing 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque. This engine is known for its reliability and fuel efficiency, making it a great choice for daily driving and longer trips.

  • Engine: 2.5-liter four-cylinder BOXER engine
  • Horsepower: 182 hp
  • Torque: 176 lb-ft
  • Transmission: Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)
  • Drivetrain: Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD)

One of the biggest selling points of the Forester is its standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system. This provides excellent traction and stability in various weather conditions, whether you're dealing with rain, snow, or rough terrain. The CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) is smooth and efficient, contributing to the Forester's impressive fuel economy. So, in terms of raw performance, these two trims are neck and neck, which means the real differences lie in the features and styling.

Exterior Styling and Features

This is where things start to get interesting! The 2019 Subaru Forester Sport and Premium trims have distinct exterior styling cues that set them apart. The Sport trim aims for a more aggressive and sporty look, while the Premium trim offers a more refined and classic appearance.

  • 2019 Forester Sport: The Sport trim features black exterior accents, including the grille, side mirrors, and rear spoiler. It also has unique 18-inch black alloy wheels and orange accents throughout the interior and exterior. This gives it a bolder and more youthful vibe. The Sport trim also includes LED fog lights and a Sport-specific rear spoiler.
  • 2019 Forester Premium: The Premium trim has a more understated and sophisticated look. It features body-color side mirrors and a silver finish on the grille. The 17-inch alloy wheels are a more traditional design. While it doesn't have the aggressive styling of the Sport, the Premium trim still looks sharp and modern.

Think about your personal style. Do you prefer a vehicle that stands out with sporty accents, or do you lean towards a more classic and elegant design? This is a crucial factor in deciding between these two trims.

Interior Features and Technology

Stepping inside, you'll notice even more differences between the 2019 Subaru Forester Sport and Premium trims. Both offer a comfortable and well-equipped cabin, but they target different priorities.

  • 2019 Forester Sport: The Sport trim's interior continues the sporty theme with unique dark gray fabric upholstery with orange stitching. You'll also find orange accents on the dashboard and center console. The Sport comes standard with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which is a step up from the base model's 6.5-inch screen. Other features include a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, as well as aluminum alloy pedal covers.
  • 2019 Forester Premium: The Premium trim offers a more luxurious feel with upgraded cloth upholstery and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. It comes standard with a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system, but you can upgrade to an 8-inch screen. The Premium also includes features like heated front seats and a power-adjustable driver's seat, adding to the comfort and convenience.

Consider what's important to you in terms of interior features. Do you prioritize sporty styling and a larger touchscreen, or do you prefer added comfort features like heated seats and a power-adjustable driver's seat?

Safety Features

Subaru is known for its commitment to safety, and both the 2019 Subaru Forester Sport and Premium trims come standard with a suite of advanced safety features.

  • EyeSight Driver Assist Technology: This includes features like adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and lane keeping assist. EyeSight is a game-changer for safety, helping to prevent accidents and make driving less stressful.
  • Blind-Spot Detection with Lane Change Assist and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert: These systems help you stay aware of your surroundings and avoid collisions. Blind-spot detection alerts you when there's a vehicle in your blind spot, while rear cross-traffic alert warns you of approaching vehicles when you're backing up.

While both trims share these crucial safety features, it's always a good idea to research the specific safety ratings and reviews for each model year to ensure you're making an informed decision.

Pricing and Value

Finally, let's talk about the bottom line: pricing and value. The 2019 Subaru Forester Sport and Premium trims have different MSRPs (Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Prices), reflecting their varying features and equipment.

  • 2019 Forester Sport: Typically has a slightly higher MSRP than the Premium trim due to its unique styling and larger touchscreen infotainment system. However, the Sport offers a lot of value for its price, especially if you're looking for a sporty and well-equipped SUV.
  • 2019 Forester Premium: Generally has a lower MSRP, making it an attractive option for buyers on a budget. The Premium trim still offers a great balance of features and value, with options to add upgrades like the larger touchscreen and advanced safety systems.

Consider your budget and what features are most important to you. Compare the MSRPs of both trims and factor in any additional options or packages you might want. Don't forget to check for any incentives or discounts that might be available in your area!

Making the Right Choice for You

Okay, guys, we've covered a lot of ground! Let's recap the key differences between the 2019 Subaru Forester Sport and Premium trims to help you make your decision.

Key Differences at a Glance:

  • Styling: The Sport has a bolder, sportier look with black accents and orange detailing, while the Premium offers a more refined and classic appearance.
  • Interior Features: The Sport has unique upholstery and a larger touchscreen, while the Premium offers heated seats and a power-adjustable driver's seat.
  • Price: The Sport typically has a slightly higher MSRP than the Premium, but it offers a different set of features for the price.

Who is the 2019 Forester Sport For?

The 2019 Subaru Forester Sport is perfect for you if:

  • You love a sporty and aggressive look.
  • You want a larger touchscreen infotainment system.
  • You appreciate unique interior styling with sporty accents.
  • You are willing to pay a bit more for these features.

Think of the Sport as the Forester's cool, younger sibling – it's got personality and isn't afraid to show it!

Who is the 2019 Forester Premium For?

The 2019 Subaru Forester Premium is an excellent choice if:

  • You prefer a more classic and understated design.
  • Comfort features like heated seats are a priority.
  • You're looking for the best value for your money.
  • You want the option to add upgrades and customize your vehicle.

The Premium trim is the sensible and reliable choice, offering a great blend of features and practicality.

Final Thoughts

Choosing between the 2019 Subaru Forester Sport and Premium trims ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and priorities. Both are fantastic SUVs that offer Subaru's legendary reliability, safety, and standard all-wheel drive. Take the time to consider your needs, budget, and desired features, and you'll be sure to find the perfect Forester for you. Happy car shopping, guys! I hope this helps you make a more informed decision.