Driving the forester is just as was pictured here. Got my venetian red forester xt last sep2015. Met an accident with a motorcycle last nov 2015 though covered by insurance.
Still in the shop waiting for parts. Was told before that it takes only 45 days leadtime from date of order for this parts but as gathered from other subaru owners 3 to 6 mos is the norm for this parts.
Would recommend the forester if you can be 100% sure you will not be needing parts from subaru or can source them outside.