For anyone who relies on a pickup truck for both work and recreation, understanding the nuances of forester cargo space is essential. While the Subaru Forester is celebrated for its standard all-wheel drive, safety features, and efficiency, the practicalities of loading and hauling are what transform a capable daily driver into a versatile lifestyle vehicle. The interaction between its compact exterior and surprisingly adaptable interior layout defines its true utility.
Measuring the Forester Cargo Hold
Evaluating the forester cargo space begins with the numbers. With the rear seats in the upright position, the cargo area offers a respectable 37.6 cubic feet of storage. This measurement positions the Forester favorably against competitors in the compact crossover segment, providing ample room for weekly groceries, luggage for a short trip, or the tools of a trade. The key to maximizing this space lies in understanding its dimensions and the behavior of the rear seatbacks.
Fold-Down Magic for Larger Loads
The true versatility of the cargo area is revealed when the 60/40 split-folding rear seatbacks are deployed. By folding the rear seats completely down, the cargo volume expands exponentially to a maximum of 76.1 cubic feet. This transformation creates a near-flat load floor that is ideal for hauling bulky items such as plywood sheets, large appliances, or multiple bicycles. The seatbacks lower smoothly, and the integrated cargo hooks provide secure anchoring points to prevent shifting during transport.
Design Philosophy: Form Meets Function
Subaru’s approach to the forester cargo space is rooted in intelligent design rather than brute force. The liftgate opens to a convenient height, eliminating the need to bend excessively and making it easier to load heavy items without straining the back. The high rear deck, while stylish, does require a slight step-up when accessing the cargo area, a minor compromise for the structural rigidity it provides to the rear hatch.
High seating position for easy viewing and loading.
Low load floor height reduces the effort required to slide items in.
Durable, textured surfaces inside the cargo area to protect cargo from wear.
Integrated storage compartments for smaller items like keys or charging cables.
Real-World Hauling Capabilities
Beyond static measurements, the forester cargo space proves its worth in everyday scenarios. A family outing might involve stashing coolers, beach toys, and duffel bags without compromising passenger comfort. For the DIY enthusiast, the bed can accommodate standard paint trays, hand tools, and home improvement supplies securely. The depth of the cargo area prevents long items like brooms or shovels from protruding too far, keeping the cab tidy and organized.
Comparison to Class Competitors
When stacked against rivals like the Mazda CX-5 or Honda CR-V, the forester cargo space holds its own. While the CR-V may offer slightly more vertical height and the CX-5 a marginally longer bed, the Forester’s flat floor and flexible seating configuration often provide a more practical solution. The inclusion of standard roof rails also allows for the addition of cargo baskets or boxes, effectively extending the vertical storage capacity for items like camping gear or extra luggage.
Maximizing Organization and Security
To get the most out of the forester cargo space, strategic organization is key. Using soft-sided bins or modular organizers helps divide the area and keeps smaller items from rolling around. For security, the tinted rear glass provides privacy, and the hatchback design means that valuable items can be stored out of sight. The inherent stability of the boxer engine layout contributes to a balanced weight distribution, ensuring that cargo does not compromise handling, even when the load is substantial.
