If you’re looking at buying a used Subaru Forester in Plymouth Meeting, it’s important to consider which model year is best for you. Each model year will offer different features, and some models may be more reliable than others. With six generations over nearly 30 years, you’ve got many options to choose from. In this guide, we’ll help you narrow down your choices by telling you about the Subaru Forester’s best years.
What Makes One Model Year Better Than Another?
Reliability ratings are typically the most important factor in determining the best model years of a car. When researching a specific model year, you should learn about its reliability ratings, common problems, and recalls. You can find data about these topics from reliable sources online, but you can also ask our expert team about which Subaru Foresters are the best.
In general, you’ll find that the Forester is a reliable SUV. According to an Experian study, 96% of all Foresters sold in the past decade are still on the road today. Repair Pal also reports that this SUV’s yearly cost of ownership is $632, which is slightly below the average of all vehicles. Well-maintained Subaru Foresters often last more than 200,000 miles.
In addition to reliability, it’s also important to consider each model year’s main features. You’ll want to make sure that the model you’re looking at has all the powertrain, safety, tech, and convenience features you’re looking for.
The Subaru Forester’s Generations (1998-2025)
The first-generation (1998-2002) Subaru Forester was built on the Impreza’s platform, making it practical and easy to drive. It launched with a 2.5L flat-four engine, a four-speed automatic transmission, and all-wheel drive.
The Forester’s second generation (2003-2008) received an exterior redesign. It also added the option for a 2.5L flat-four turbo engine.
With the third generation (2009-2013), the Forester was made taller, but it still retained its pleasant driving characteristics. The engine options remained the same with this generation, allowing you to choose between a regular 2.5L or turbo 2.5L engine.
The fourth-generation (2014-2018) Forester introduced a larger body size, giving it the look of a modern crossover. Subaru also introduced the option for a continuously variable transmission.
For the fifth generation (2019-2024), Subaru removed the option for a turbocharged engine. The company additionally made Subaru’s EyeSight driver-assistance features standard on this generation.
In 2025, Subaru released the sixth generation of the Forester. This newest model offers a hybrid powertrain that generates 194 horsepower and gets up to 35 mpg city and 34 mpg highway.
The Best Subaru Forester Years and Which To Avoid
We recommend avoiding most first- and second-generation Foresters, as many model years had issues with head gaskets and excessive oil consumption. However, the 2008 version was particularly impressive, earning a reliability score of 88 out of 100 from J.D. Power.
The third generation of the Forester is often considered the most reliable. Models from 2012 onward got a redesigned engine that has proven to be dependable. The 2010 model year scored 84 out of 100 for reliability from J.D. Power.
There were some problems with early fourth-generation Foresters. The 2014 and 2015 models saw a decrease in reliability scores due to problems with the new continuously variable transmission. However, Subaru resolved those issues starting in 2016. The 2016 model year is now considered one of the best years for the Forester, and this SUV received 85 out of 100 for reliability from J.D. Power.
The fifth-generation models are also highly regarded. J.D. Power gave reliability scores of 83 and 84 out of 100 to the 2021 and 2023 model years, respectively. This year, Consumer Reports even named Subaru the 2025 Best Overall Automotive Brand and 2025 Most Reliable Brand.
Subaru Forester Buying Guide
By committing to regular maintenance and following the recommendations in this guide, you can pick a Forester with confidence. Using the information we’ve provided, we recommend narrowing down your options further by deciding on which features are most important to you. Additionally, it’s a good idea to schedule a test-drive for the models you’re interested in.
We also recommend creating a budget, taking into account the cost of maintenance, gas, insurance, and any other expenses. It’s important to think about depreciation too. Your car’s value will drop over time, but since Subarus are known to be dependable, they typically hold their value well.
Buying new is also a good option. A 2025 Forester starts at $29,995, and the hybrid version begins at $36,595.
Find Your Ideal Forester at John Kennedy Subaru
Need help finding your ideal Forester? Our team at John Kennedy Subaru in Plymouth Meeting, Pennsylvania, can provide recommendations and guide you through the whole buying process. We’re committed to helping you find a Forester that’ll run reliably for years. Contact us today to learn more about the Subaru Forester.
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