2017 Subaru Forester IV (facelift 2016) Dimensions, Size & Specs

The Subaru Forester IV (facelift 2016) comes with a width of 1795 mm, which is about 70.7 inches. This width contributes to a stable driving experience, especially on highways and rough terrains, by offering a wide stance that enhances cornering and overall vehicle stability. While it might be slightly wider than some smaller crossovers, it remains well-suited for urban driving and parking. Its width ensures that occupants have comfortable shoulder room inside while allowing the vehicle to fit into standard parking spaces with ease, though care is advised with tight urban parking situations.

The Subaru Forester IV (facelift 2016) has a height ranging from 1715 mm to 1735 mm (about 67.5 to 68.3 inches). This SUV height supports generous headroom for both front and rear passengers, contributing to a comfortable cabin atmosphere. The taller profile also enhances outward visibility for the driver, a hallmark of the Forester’s design ethos. Externally, this height ensures the vehicle has a commanding presence on the road and improved ground clearance, which aids in off-road scenarios. However, taller vehicles may be slightly more affected by crosswinds but the Forester balances this well with its aerodynamic design.

The Forester IV facelift model weighs between 1485 kg and 1670 kg (3275 to 3683 lbs) when curb weight is considered. Its maximum weight ranges from 2015 kg to 2110 kg (4441 to 4654 lbs), accounting for passengers, cargo, and full fuel load. This weight range reflects the solid build quality and the inclusion of Subaru’s all-wheel-drive system. While a heavier vehicle can lead to slightly lower fuel efficiency compared to lighter competitors, it also contributes positively to ride stability and road grip. Engineers have optimized the Forester to provide a balanced driving experience with respectable efficiency for an SUV in this segment.

The Subaru Forester IV offers a practical luggage volume of 505 liters (approximately 17.8 cubic feet) with the rear seats upright, which is ample space for daily errands, grocery trips, or travel bags. When the rear seats are folded down, this capacity significantly expands to between 1557 liters and 1564 liters (roughly 55 to 55.2 cubic feet), making it highly versatile for transporting larger items or increased cargo loads. This adaptability is one of the Forester's standout features, positioning it well for users needing flexible storage solutions without compromising passenger comfort.

The Forester IV facelift model boasts a ground clearance of 220 mm (8.7 inches), which is notably higher than many compact SUVs in its class. This generous ride height allows the vehicle to clear obstacles such as rocks, uneven terrain, and snow efficiently, reinforcing Subaru's reputation for capable off-roaders. Additionally, the elevated stance contributes to improved visibility for the driver when navigating challenging environments. This ground clearance is a crucial factor that makes the Forester a versatile vehicle for both city driving and adventurous terrains.

Yes, the Subaru Forester IV facelift variant fits comfortably into a standard garage. With its length between 4595 mm and 4610 mm (181 to 181.5 inches), width of 1795 mm (70.7 inches), and height ranging from 1715 mm to 1735 mm (67.5 to 68.3 inches), it fits well within typical single-car garage dimensions which usually range around 6 meters (236 inches) in length and 3 meters (118 inches) in width. Drivers should still verify their personal garage dimensions, but generally, the Forester is designed to accommodate enclosed parking spaces without issues.

Compared to the previous generation (Forester III), the Forester IV facelift version offers a slight increase in length from around 4540 mm to up to 4610 mm and a more refined exterior design. The width remains comparable at about 1795 mm, and height is slightly taller, contributing to improved interior space and headroom. The ground clearance remains at a strong 220 mm, preserving its off-road capability. Feature-wise, the facelift introduced updated styling elements, improved interior materials, and upgraded safety technologies that enhance its appeal over the predecessor, maintaining Subaru’s focus on practicality with modern enhancements.

Within the competitive compact SUV market segment, the Subaru Forester IV facelift holds its own with a well-balanced size and off-road capability. Its length (4595-4610 mm) and width (1795 mm) are typical for the class, but its standout feature is the 220 mm ground clearance, which is higher than many rivals. This characteristic, coupled with standard all-wheel drive, sets it apart from competitors that often focus more on urban versatility than rugged terrain. Additionally, its spacious cargo area and flexible seating make it highly practical. Overall, the Forester offers a combination of size, utility, and AWD prowess that appeals to adventurous drivers seeking versatility.

The Subaru Forester IV facelift offers rim sizes including 7J x 18 and 7J x 17, paired with tire sizes such as 225/55 R18 and 225/60 R17. Larger 18-inch wheels generally enhance handling and road grip, providing a firmer ride especially on smooth surfaces, while 17-inch rims with higher-profile tires can deliver a more comfortable experience by absorbing road irregularities better. The tire width (225 mm) helps optimize traction and stability, complementing the Forester’s all-wheel-drive system. These sizes are well chosen to balance comfort, performance, and the SUV’s capability on various road surfaces.