The Forester didn't fail
The Forester didn't fail anyone. The reviewer has failed the readers by failing to think rationally.
Power costs money.
The Forester is the entry level SUV in a line of of vehicles. The new version is a more polished version but has the same capability as the former year middle at a similarly affordable price. Making a stronger chassis with a bigger engine would make the entry level model less affordable for those who need one.
If you want a more powerful vehicle, don't berate a vehicle whose maker has resisted the antiquated "grow it bigger, people will pay for it" philosophy that was outdated in the 1960's.
Buy a more powerful vehicle.