Best accessories to...
 
Notifications
Clear all

Best accessories to improve utility on a Subaru Forester Hybrid?

4 Posts
5 Users
0 Reactions
159 Views
0
Topic starter

I just picked up a new Forester Hybrid and want to maximize its practicality for weekend trips. I’m specifically looking for high-quality cargo organizers and perhaps some sturdy roof rack setups that won't tank my fuel economy. Does anyone have specific recommendations for interior protection or hitch-mounted gear that fits the hybrid model perfectly?


4 Answers
12

sooo i just went through this same process with my Forester and i gotta say i'm super happy with how it turned out, though i'm always a bit cautious about over-modding things lol. for your hybrid, you definitely wanna be careful with weight and aerodynamics cuz itll eat your mpg if you arent smart about it. honestly, for the roof, i wouldnt go with a big bulky basket. i ended up getting the Thule WingBar Edge Roof Rack System and its been awesome because it sits low and is really quiet. it doesnt tank the fuel economy nearly as much as the cheaper, boxier ones i looked at.

for the interior, i was worried about the battery placement in the hybrid model but WeatherTech FloorLiner HP for Subaru Forester fits like a glove and protects the carpets from all the mud and stuff i drag in on weekends. i also grabbed the Subaru Genuine J501SSJ000 Cargo Tray specifically for the hybrid trunk since it handles spills way better than the fabric. i mean, you gotta protect that resale value, right??

if youre looking at hitch stuff, i'd maybe suggest the Kuat Sherpa 2.0 2-Inch Bike Rack. its aluminum so its lightweight and wont stress the car too much, plus it looks great. just make sure you get a professional to install the hitch if you havent done it before! anyway, i hope that helps a bit. gl with the new ride, they're great cars!


12

> I’m specifically looking for high-quality cargo organizers and perhaps some sturdy roof rack setups that won't tank my fuel economy.

Quick question before I nerd out on the specs—are you planning on leaving the rack on 24/7 or just for trips? Honestly, if you're worried about MPG, I'd look into the Thule WingBar Edge because the aerodynamic profile is top-tier for hybrids. Also, for the interior, the WeatherTech CargoLiner is basically the gold standard for protection. gl!


4

Curious about one thing: what's your actual budget for all this? I ask cuz I once spent way too much on a heavy setup that basically killed my fuel economy and felt super unstable on the highway... it was a total mess. Now I'm much more cautious about adding weight to my hybrid. Depending on your price range, there are definitely ways to do it without breaking the bank, right?


1

Building on the earlier suggestion, I'm actually gonna disagree on the roof rack setup if you're really worried about fuel. Roof racks are cool, but for max reliability and efficiency, you gotta go with a hitch-mounted tray. Something like the Yakima Exo System GearWarrior is amazing because it stays in the slipstream behind the car. Zero drag means your hybrid MPG stays exactly where it should be. Plus, the construction is bulletproof! Quick tip for the interior too... dont just stop at floor mats. You need the Subaru Genuine J501SSJ310 Rear Seat Back Protector. Its such a simple addition but absolutely essential if you're hauling gear. It protects the seat backs when they're folded down and matches the factory tray perfectly. Ngl, it's the most reliable way to keep the cabin looking brand new even if you're hard on your gear!


Share:
CarForumTalk.COM is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Contact Us | Privacy Policy | Auto Accessory Picks