A former British Touring Car support racer, Nick is the founder of ChooseMyCar and brings years of industry insight to the world of cars and car buying.
Overall Rating
4.1/5
Based on expert evaluation and real-world testing
Performance
3.8
Comfort & Interior
4.2
Running Costs
3.9
Practicality
4.4
Expert Review
Our ratings are based on thorough testing and expert evaluation. We consider all aspects of the vehicle, from performance to value for money, ensuring you get a transparent and reliable assessment.
Overview
Looking for a reliable family SUV that won’t break the bank? The Subaru Forester delivers exceptional value with its blend of practicality, safety, and all weather capability. This mid size SUV has built a loyal following among families who need space, versatility, and peace of mind on every journey. The Forester stands out from rivals like the Nissan X-Trail and Honda CR-V with its standard all wheel drive system and impressive ground clearance. What makes the Forester particularly appealing is its spacious interior, generous boot space, and excellent safety record. The raised driving position gives you confidence on the road, while the practical design means it handles everything from school runs to weekend adventures. Whether you’re considering a newer model or looking at used options, the Forester offers dependable performance that few competitors can match in this price range.
How Does the Subaru Forester Drive?
The Subaru Forester prioritizes smooth, reliable performance over excitement. Most models come with a 2.0-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine producing around 150 horsepower. This provides adequate power for everyday driving, though acceleration is leisurely rather than thrilling. The CVT automatic gearbox helps with fuel economy but can feel sluggish when you need quick overtaking power. For more performance, the turbocharged XT variants offer significantly more punch with around 240 horsepower.
Key Features
Essential specifications and features
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Engine
2.0L 4-cylinder / 2.4L Turbo
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Power Output
150 - 240 bhp
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0-60 mph
10.3 - 6.1 seconds
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MPG Combined
32 - 38 mpg
- Boot Space
- 520 litres
- Safety Rating
- ★★★★★ (Euro NCAP)
Inside the Subaru Forester: Comfort & Features
Step inside the Forester and you’ll appreciate the spacious, airy cabin. The high seating position gives you a commanding view of the road ahead. The dashboard layout is straightforward and functional, with clearly marked controls that are easy to use while driving. Materials are robust rather than luxurious, with hard-wearing plastics that should stand up to family life. The infotainment system includes smartphone connectivity, though the interface isn’t as slick as some rivals.
The Subaru Forester is a dependable family SUV that excels in practicality and all-weather capability, thanks to its standard AWD system. While its 2.0-litre engine delivers smooth, reliable performance, acceleration feels restrained, and the CVT gearbox prioritizes fuel efficiency over responsiveness. Comfortable interiors and ample space make it a strong contender, though the XT variants offer sharper dynamics for those seeking more punch. A solid choice for everyday driving, though not the most thrilling.
How Much Does It Cost to Run a Subaru Forester?
The Forester’s running costs are reasonable for a mid-size SUV, though not class-leading. The naturally aspirated engines return fuel economy in the mid-30s MPG, which is acceptable but not exceptional. Insurance groups are moderate, reflecting the car’s sensible image and strong safety record. Servicing costs are generally reasonable, and Subaru’s reputation for reliability helps keep unexpected bills to a minimum.
How Does It Compare?
Compare key features and specifications
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Subaru Forester
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Nissan Qashqai
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Kia Sportage
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|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | £32,000 | £25,000 | £27,000 |
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Performance
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| Engine | 2.0L NA 150hp | 1.3L Turbo 140hp | 1.6L Turbo 150hp |
| Power | 150 bhp | 140 bhp | 150 bhp |
| 0-60 mph | 10.3 seconds | 9.9 seconds | 9.4 seconds |
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Running Costs
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| MPG Combined | 36 mpg | 44 mpg | 40 mpg |
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Practicality
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| Boot Space | 520 litres | 504 litres | 591 litres |
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Standard Features
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| Key Features | Standard AWD, Excellent visibility, Strong safety, Spacious cabin | Sharp styling, Efficient engines, Good value, Advanced tech | Long warranty, Stylish design, Good equipment, Reliable |
Subaru Forester Practicality & Boot Space
For families, the Forester excels in practical matters. The 520-litre boot is a good size for the class, easily accommodating the weekly shopping or holiday luggage. The square shape maximizes usable space, and the low loading lip makes it easy to lift heavy items. The rear seats fold down to create a large, flat loading area when you need maximum cargo space.
We’ve had our Forester for three years now and it’s been absolutely brilliant. The space is amazing and it’s never let us down. The all-wheel drive gives real confidence in winter conditions.
The Subaru Forester stands out in the competitive family SUV market by focusing on the fundamentals. It delivers excellent safety, genuine all-weather capability, and impressive interior space in a package that prioritizes reliability over flashiness. While it may not be the most stylish or fuel-efficient choice, it excels where families need it most.