Oooooo...I have mixed feelings about your post, Polaris. On one hand, we have been researching this Forester thing for 4+ years now, and I am very confident in our final decision. On the other hand, I drive Ski Doo (hence the name "Dev Doo"), but this only because I like to change spark plugs alot.
I hope we can get along
But seriously:
- Consumer reports: best reliabilty (on average) of anything with AWD/4x4 over the last 5 years
- 2003 Gen II chassis has built in side impact airbags, best safety rating in it's class combining front and side impact from SUV's/cars/pickups (a couple others scored the same with optional features - Ford is one)
- The 2.5 l motor has a Low Emissions Vehicle rating (non turbo models). By way of comparison, my 5.7 l GMC Z71 passes everything on the road (except a gas station)
- Great visibily for my wife (she is a bit shorter than average!)
- I'm getting Pacifica Blue Metallic...lets me pretend (almost) that it's an WRX STi (maybe, kinda, sorta?)
I have direct experience (friends, my own) with the following makes while making my decision. I doubt you'll find anyone to argue with our thinking inside this newsgroup (although, if they do, then this post becomes a good "troll detector")
GMC Z71 & 4x4
Ford Explorer
Ford F150 4x4
Nissan Pathfinder
Chev Tracker
Subaru Forester
Hyundai Sante Fe
BMW
I seriously compared all the Subaru models, Hyundai, and GMC stuff on the dealer lots. All others done on paper. Check out this website...lots of fun for comparing vehicles. I like their "Intellichoice" thingy....
http://www.motortrend.com/
And don't forget my original request for dealer invoice price folks!!!
Dev_Doo