My backside never protested. The switchgear is generally well placed. Things are where they are supposed to be. The instruments are easy to read. It's easy to operate and very convenient.
Storage space is excellent with seven small cubicles, door pockets and net pouches in the seatbacks.
There's a place for sunglasses overhead. Two cupholders that pull out of the dash are rather flimsy and when occupied with drinks, some of the climate controls are blocked. I found this aggravating when trying to regulate the fan speed with a switch that was hidden by a large cup. The rear seat folds forward in a 60-40 configuration and as you might expect from a vehicle of this type, storage is substantial, especially with the back seats folded down. The Forester, which comes in L and upgraded S configurations and for the first time in 2001 with a premium package, is a handsome vehicle with conservative lines.