OMG those rear seats are TINY.

Loved the car for the most part, but even with my drivers seat moved up as much as was comfortable, the room in the rear seat was barely acceptable and I'm 5'6"!

I'm afraid this will be a deal breaker.

Damn....

Is the rear leg room in the Forester any better?

 

Did you test-drive at a dealership? If so, why didn't you get in a Forester and find out for yourself?

Also, what did you think of the power with a stick? I have entertained the thought of getting the RS to save money, but it has the same 2.5 engine that I was not impressed with (automatic).

 

I though the power with the stick was just fine. Nice engine that EJ25.

I did drive a Forester before and tried the back seat. It felt slightly roomier but that may have been an illusion due to the higher roof, so I wasnt' sure..