This is the jack of all cars and is exceptionally reliable. I purchased my 2007 Forester in 2014 with 90K, one owner and in beautiful condition, a deal I couldn't pass up. I have owned it 3 years and it now has 160K and I have had no issues with it. What are the chances of buying a 7 year old car, adding 70,000km and have nothing break. There is also no rust to be found anywhere on the body. This has been the most reliable car I have ever owned. It is also a car that does everything. AWD for bad weather, 28mpg average, roof racks for my toys, hitch and enough power to tow my bigger toys, huge trunk for moving or road trips, reliable and easy on my pocket book. What more could somebody ask for in a vehicle. I was already a fan of Subaru before I bought this car but after owning one for 3 years I feel my next car down the road will also be a Subaru.

I loved my Saturn Astra even though I recently traded it in. I had the 2dr XR and it handled great, 225 Hankook tires on a small hatchback you felt on rails. The hatch was very large and with the seat folded down you could fit a lot of stuff. However, don't let that stuff weigh a lot because the 1.8L does not have a lot of power and felt very sluggish when loaded. I had the 5spd manual and I could smell the clutch when going up hills with a 400-500lbs of weight.

I owned my car for 2 years (50,000km) and it was extremely reliable. I had was the exhaust flex pipe broke which is common on these cars. I had a shop weld a new one in for $100. The front interior room is cramped if your taller than 5,8 and the German designed stereo is confusing but it sounded great. Compared to a yaris or accent it was a little quicker but it also returned slightly less mpg, I averaged 30mpg 70% highway or 34-35mpg all highway however engine noise is in abundance for long trips. Another important note is these cars are re badged European cars and replacement parts are expensive. They also use a timing belt which is rather expensive to replace at 120,000km

I enjoyed my time with my Astra but I would not buy another and would not recommend others buy one unless you can get a very good deal. I feel for the same money you can probably better a better all around vehicle that's quieter, cheaper parts, better fuel economy and can handle more weight considering all the room you have.