I purchased a 2014 Forester non-turbo and have noticed a lot of highway wind sensitivity, even light cross winds. Not noticed on the short highway drives when taking test drives. This requires constant attention and steering wheel correction; direction ability is much better on a windless day or night on trips. This I attribute to the following possible reasons: new model is tall, car is fairly light, assisted steering, short wheelbase, possibly tire type (Yokohama Geolander G91), tire pressures, alignment issues. Directional issues were also a little noticeable just driving around town.
Attempts to correct: lowering stock air pressure from 35 to 30 helped, alignment by the dealer helped (they said it was within parameters, but corrected it to 'dead on'). Wanted to change to Michelin tires which I favor but haven't done so, besides, not sure if that would correct what I perceive as an issue if there is much less of a problem when there is no wind.
We prefer to drive our Toyota van on long trips since it is so easy and comfortable to drive, but still take some trips with our new car, even went to Michigan this January from NC. This is not a sufficient problem to sell the car, but it is annoying. May have chosen the Outback instead, though initial impression was that the Forester was much more fun to drive and peppier.
Anyone else with the new Forester noticed this tendency?
Jlubbs
