How did the Subaru "fail" that test?? All 4 wheels spun and it went up the hill.
It wasn't until they unwound steering well did the Subaru move. Looks power couldn't be sent to the wheels with traction in this simple test the others passed.
The 2.5L models have this odd hair-pin throttle, wherein a massive surge of power is sent down to the wheels in order to make the car seem faster than it is. For city driving, the Forester, much like how Mazda became known as "peppy" with the Mazda 3, feels quick.
Notice how the wheel had to be turned the whole way to the right for the uphill test? This is a specific 'flaw' of Subaru's traction control system that has been exploited by other manufacturers in highlighting how Subaru perhaps isn't the "bestest" in terms of AWD. Do the same test with all wheels pointed straight (as most people would normally be starting up on a hill, and you'll see a very different result. Also, Subaru has X-mode in the Forester, which is designed to limit that very situation depicted.
All of these CUVs are fine in Canadian winters on-road. I like the Subaru not for its "ERMAGAWD, THIS THING CAN CLIMB TREES!", but because its chassis is predictable and communicative. You know where the car will be going at all times - a feat that cannot be shown in such a static test.
So where is part 2 of this comparison test ? Isn't it due today ?
Yep, will be live shortly after midday.
![Popcorn :popcorn:](https://www.autos.ca/forum/Smileys/CarTalk/popcorn1.gif)