4.7 Overall rating
(278 reviews)Customers say
Overall, drivers have consistently praised the Subaru Forester across all model years for its reliability, spacious interiors, and excellent all-wheel drive capabilities. Many appreciate the safety features and comfortable ride, making it a top choice for families and adventurous individuals alike. However, some owners have expressed concerns about performance, particularly the lack of power and sluggish acceleration, as well as the outdated styling in certain models. Despite these downsides, the Forester is viewed as a practical and dependable option that often provides great value for money.
AI generated from the text of customer reviews.
What people say
Im a big guy (62) and I really like the headroom. We currently own an Outback and that car would have been more practical (towing). However, I feel more upright in my Forester instead of reclined in the Outback.
Very nice features, smooth ride and love the safety rating
An excellent auto and a great value for the money!
Love the visibility in the Forester, the safety features and the comfortable, quiet ride. Also, the resale value forced us to buy new as the new prices were not that much higher than late model used.
Subaru Forester FAQs
Is Subaru discontinuing the Forester?
No, Subaru is not discontinuing the Forester. The 2025 Subaru Forester is set to continue production, with the Forester Wilderness model carrying over from the 2024 lineup. The new Forester is well-equipped with standard features like Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, ensuring it remains a popular choice among SUV buyers.
Which year of the Subaru Forester is reliable?
When searching for a reliable used Subaru Forester, certain model years stand out. The 2000 model from the first generation and the 2003-2005 models from the second generation are particularly noted for their dependability. These years have demonstrated strong performance and fewer issues compared to other model years, making them excellent choices for a used vehicle.
What are the downsides of a Subaru Forester?
While the Subaru Forester is generally well-regarded, it does have some common issues. Notably, some models with CVT transmissions have experienced problems, and there have been reports of excessive oil consumption in various models. Additionally, the check engine light can illuminate for multiple reasons, requiring attention. Despite these downsides, many Forester owners find the benefits outweigh these occasional issues.
How many miles does a Subaru Forester last?
The Subaru Forester is known for its longevity, with many models achieving up to 200,000 miles or more with proper maintenance. Its robust construction and reliable performance make it a durable choice for long-term ownership. Regular maintenance and timely repairs are key to ensuring the Forester remains a dependable vehicle for many years.
How much does the 2026 Subaru Forester cost?
The 2026 Subaru Forester has a starting MSRP of $29,995 and can cost up to $39,995 depending on the trim package and upgrades. The 114 new models for sale on CarGurus have an average listing price of $44,298.
Is the Subaru Forester a good car?
CarGurus experts gave the 2026 Subaru Forester an overall rating of 7.5/10 and Subaru Forester owners have rated the vehicle a 4.6/5 stars on average. If a vehicle has both strong expert and owner reviews, you can feel confident in its quality. If either expert reviews, owner reviews, or both are spotty, you might want to do some research to figure out where the car falls short.
Is the Subaru Forester safe?
CarGurus experts gave the 2026 Subaru Forester a safety rating of 9/10.
What fuel types are available?
Gasoline engines are available.