When evaluating a compact SUV for daily use and weekend adventures, the 2015 Subaru Forester stands out as a practical and reliable option. One of the primary considerations for buyers is the cargo space, which impacts everything from grocery runs to hauling gear for outdoor activities. Understanding the specific dimensions, configuration options, and real-world usability of the 2015 Forester’s trunk is essential for determining if it fits your lifestyle.
Overview of the 2015 Model Year
Released for model year 2015, the Subaru Forester solidified its reputation as a versatile compact SUV built for all-weather capability. Known for standard symmetrical all-wheel drive and a focus on safety, this generation emphasized durability and efficiency. The cargo area was designed with flexibility in mind, aiming to serve both urban commuters and active families without sacrificing the vehicle’s signature raised driving position.
Standard Cargo Dimensions and Capacity
Behind the rear seats, the 2015 Forester offers a respectable cargo area that measures approximately 30.7 inches in width, 38.6 inches in depth, and 37.0 inches in height with the rear seatbacks in the upright position. This configuration results in a total cargo volume of roughly 15.8 cubic feet. This space is sufficient for handling the luggage of a small family or the equipment for a weekend camping trip without requiring the seats to be folded.
Rear Seat Folding Mechanism
To access the maximum cargo capacity, the 2015 Forester requires the rear seatbacks to be folded down. This process is designed for ease, utilizing a pull handle located at the top of the seatback. Once released, the seatback folds forward smoothly, effectively turning the rear cargo area into a flat load floor. This significantly increases the depth of the cargo area, allowing for longer items and bulky objects that would not otherwise fit.
Maximum Load Volume and Configuration
With the rear seatbacks folded completely down, the cargo space expands dramatically to approximately 58.5 cubic feet. This transformation is one of the key strengths of the Forester, as it maintains a relatively high load floor even when expanded. The ability to create a long, open trough is ideal for hauling large, rectangular items such as plywood sheets, large suitcases, or multiple plastic storage bins while maintaining visibility through the rear window.
Organizational Features and Usability
Managing the available space involves more than just measuring cubic feet. The 2015 Forester includes practical features to enhance organization. The rear floor features a fixed tonneau cover that hides the wheel well intrusions, creating a more uniform surface for loading. Additionally, the area behind the front seats offers a small, useful storage nook for smaller items like sunglasses or charging cables, keeping the cabin tidy.
Real-World Comparison and Practicality
In comparison to rivals like the Honda CR-V or the Toyota RAV4, the 2015 Forester often matches or exceeds their cargo capacity when the seats are folded. While the CR-V might offer slightly more upright space with seats up, the Forester’s flat load floor and greater depth give it an edge for hauling long or heavy items. This makes it particularly appealing for DIY enthusiasts, gardeners, or anyone who needs to transport irregularly shaped cargo regularly.
Factors Affecting Cargo Utility
It is important to note that the usable cargo space can be influenced by a few factors. The inclusion of a roof rack, while excellent for adding external storage, does reduce the available height in the cargo area if items are loaded underneath it. Furthermore, the seat fabric is durable but requires attention to keep it clean, especially when hauling messy items like soil or wet sports equipment. The lift-over height of the rear gate is also something to consider for users with mobility concerns.
