The Subaru Forester is celebrated for its elevated seating position, versatile handling, and surprisingly roomy cargo area. Families and outdoor enthusiasts often choose this compact crossover because the cargo space matches its adventurous lifestyle.
Below you will find a clear overview of how the Forester organizes its cargo, followed by deeper sections on configuration, practicality, and common questions.
| Trim | Seating | Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seat | Maximum Folded Total | Key Cargo Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Base | 5 passengers | 5.3 cubic feet | 37.1 cubic feet | Low floor, rigid rear deck |
| Premium | 5 passengers | 5.3 cubic feet | 37.1 cubic feet | Power liftgate, organized dividers |
| Limited | 5 passengers | 5.3 cubic feet | 37.1 cubic feet | Power liftgate, leather accents, in‑cabin storage |
| Touring | 5 passengers | 5.3 cubic feet | 37.1 cubic feet | Power liftgate, advanced safety suite, premium audio |
Forester Cargo Layout And Rear Seat Design
The rear seat configuration in the Forester is engineered for both passenger comfort and cargo flexibility. With three adult seatbacks in place, the cabin maintains a balanced look while still delivering a usable cargo area.
Behind the rear bench, the cargo bed is flat, and the low floor helps you slide packages and duffels in without bending too far. The rigid rear deck adds stability for rooftop cargo accessories without compromising everyday functionality.
For longer trips, the rear seatbacks fold in a straightforward way that preserves a continuous load floor. This design keeps the cabin tidy and allows you to adapt the space quickly when you need extra room for skis, bicycles, or large shopping trips.
Maximizing Space With Rear Seats Folded
Folding the rear seatbacks transforms the Forester into a high‑volume hauler that surprises many first time buyers. The 37.1 cubic feet of maximum space opens up behind the front cabin, giving you room for tall items that would not fit in a sedan.
The wide opening and low load height reduce the effort required to stack boxes, coolers, or camping gear. You can fit bulky items such as large coolers, stackable storage bins, or multiple duffel bags without awkward overhangs that complicate unloading.
When the seats are folded, the load area remains largely uninterrupted, making it easy to slide containers from the cabin into the bed. Tie down points and included cargo anchors help secure lighter items so they stay stable on curving roads and highways.
Everyday Practicality For Families And Weekend Adventurers
Parents appreciate how the Forester handles the everyday rush while still supporting weekend excursions. Groceries, school gear, and pet supplies fit neatly even with all five seats in use, so the cabin stays comfortable for passengers.
On Saturdays when the mountains call, you can fold the rear seats and load hiking packs, skis, or a rooftop cargo bag without losing passenger room for the weeknight drive home. The retention of two front cupholders behind the front seats keeps drinks within reach for everyone.
Hidden compartments and multiple pockets help organize smaller items such as phones, sunglasses, and charging cables. This attention to detail means you spend less time digging and more time enjoying the drive, whether you are commuting or exploring new trails.
Comparing The Forester To Key Midsize And Compact Rivals
When you compare the Forester to several popular midsize and compact crossovers, its blend of upright seating, versatile cargo, and standard all‑wheel drive stands out. The table above shows that the basic cargo volume behind the rear seat matches across most trims, giving you consistent access no matter the package.
Power liftgate availability on higher trims reduces hassle when your hands are full, and the thoughtful interior storage solutions enhance daily usability. While some rivals offer larger cabin footprints or more adjustment range, the Forester balances these traits with proven reliability and strong resale value.
Key Takeaways For Subaru Forester Owners And Shoppers
- Forester cargo space remains consistent across trims with 5.3 cubic feet behind the rear seat.
- Folding the rear seats unlocks up to 37.1 cubic feet for larger or irregularly shaped loads.
- The low floor and rigid rear deck make loading and unloading quick and comfortable.
- Standard all‑wheel drive and versatile seating suit both daily commutes and weekend adventures.
- Power liftgate and thoughtful interior storage improve accessibility and organization.
- Roomy cabin room and hidden compartments help keep the interior tidy during travel.
- The Forester balances cargo capacity, passenger comfort, and capability compared to key rivals.
FAQ
Reader questions
How much cargo space does the Subaru Forester have with the rear seats in place?
With the rear seats upright, the Subaru Forester provides approximately 5.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear bench. This area is flat and low, making it easy to load groceries, luggage, and everyday gear without bending deeply.
What is the maximum cargo capacity when the rear seats are folded?
Folding the rear seatbacks increases the total cargo capacity to about 37.1 cubic feet, creating a nearly continuous load area. This expansion lets you carry tall or bulky items such as large coolers, camping equipment, or multiple large bags with minimal effort.
Can I fit large items like bicycles or a rooftop cargo box in the Forester?
Yes, the Forester is designed to handle large items such as bicycles, wide rooftop cargo boxes, and bulky outdoor gear. The rear seat design and high roof rails provide ample support and clearance for these accessories while maintaining everyday passenger comfort.
How does the Forester’s cargo space compare to similar compact crossovers?
Compared to many compact and midsize rivals, the Forester offers competitive behind‑seat volume combined with an upright cabin and practical interior storage. Its versatile folding seats and standard all‑wheel drive give it an edge for buyers who prioritize usable space and capability in everyday driving conditions.