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Two Subarus, along with the recently released Volvo Cross Country, made the shortlist in this category, but when it came to the final back-to-back testing the argument ended up being a one brand affair, between the Subaru Forester and the Subaru Outback.
Factors which helped tip the Forester into first place included its low price tag, retained value - where it scored the maximum five points -- running and repair costs and fuel efficiency.
Though many of the entrants in this category will rarely see more than well made dirt and gravel roads, for the more adventurous the Forester has greater off road ability than its rivals and is not afraid to follow in the tracks of big four wheel drive wagons such as Pajero and LandCruiser - though with obvious limitations as far as ground clearance and gearing are concerned.
There were areas in which the Forester did not score quite as well as the Outback. Forester was marked down on space and practically, comfort and smoothness and quietness. By virtue of its smaller size when compared to Outback, Forester's interior is not as roomy for occupants and storage space behind the rear seat is only average, while its 2.0 litre engine, though adequate, lacks the punch of the Outback's 2.5.
While road noise in the Forester was reasonably low, engine noise level was up and verged on being a little on the harsh side when under stress. It's dynamics - handling, steering and braking - scored above average.
The Forester, with all wheel drive, is a very secure confident car on any road surface. The Volvo Cross Country is a luxurious, safe and very capable wagon, with every conceivable luxury feature, but scored below average on price, running and repair costs, warranty and fuel efficiency.
Previous Results
2007 - Nissan X-Trail ST
2006 - Subaru Forester X
2005 - Ford SX Territory Ghia AWD
2004 - Ford Territory TX AWD
2003 - Subaru Forester X
2002 - Subaru Forester 2.5X
2001 - Subaru Forester Limited*
(*Best Recreational Vehicle Under $45,000)
2001 - BMW X5 3.0i*
(*Best Recreational Vehicle Over $45,000)
2000 - Subaru Forester Limited
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