The 2014 Subaru Forester stands as a testament to the brand's commitment to practicality and all-weather capability, offering a blend of efficiency, safety, and versatility that remains relevant in the compact crossover segment. For buyers prioritizing utility, understanding the specific cargo space configuration of this model year is essential for evaluating its real-world usability. This detailed examination breaks down the dimensional realities of the 2014 Forester's storage area, providing the specifics needed to determine if it aligns with your lifestyle needs.
2014 Forester Cargo Dimensions and Configurations
To effectively utilize the space behind the rear seats, you first need to understand the baseline numbers. The 2014 Subaru Forester provides a generous and flexible cargo area that is one of its primary selling points. The listed cargo space measurements offer a clear picture of the volume available for everything from weekly groceries to weekend adventure gear.
With the rear seats in their upright position, the Forester provides a respectable 32.5 cubic feet of depth, which is ideal for containing smaller items without compromising passenger room. The magic happens when you fold down the 60/40 split rear bench; the cargo length extends dramatically to approximately 68 inches, creating a near-flat load floor that expands the volume to an impressive 75.8 cubic feet. This transformation turns the vehicle into a capable hauler for bulky items like furniture pieces, large appliances, or multiple large suitcases for extended travel.
Access and Loading Practicality
While cubic footage is a critical metric, the true value of the cargo area is revealed in how you access it. The 2014 Forester features a wide-opening hatchback with a high sill, which allows for easy loading and unloading without the awkward contortions required by some sedans. The opening is generous, and the lip is low enough to facilitate the sliding of heavy objects in, reducing the physical strain often associated with loading cargo. Furthermore, the rear deck lid houses a practical convenience: a built-in cargo cover that is included to help keep the storage area tidy and dust-free between uses.
Design Philosophy and Real-World Utility
Subaru engineered the 2014 Forester with the active lifestyle consumer in mind, and the cargo area reflects this philosophy. The interior is designed to transition seamlessly from a comfortable commuter cabin to a rugged hauler. The rear seats are not an afterthought; they provide ample legroom for passengers during the drive, yet they fold down relatively flat to maximize the load bed when the need arises. This balance ensures that the vehicle does not sacrifice its primary function—transporting people—just to serve as a moving truck.
Height Advantage: The upright seating position of the Forester provides exceptional visibility, making it easy to judge the depth and width of the cargo area while loading.
Versatile Seating: The rear bench seat can be folded in a split configuration, allowing you to accommodate long items that might protrude into the cabin while still securing smaller items behind the seatback.
All-Weather Confidence: Unlike a traditional sedan, the elevated stance and standard all-wheel drive mean you can access the cargo area in inclement weather, such as snowy driveways or muddy trails, without worrying about ground clearance.
