Are Subaru Foresters expensive to run?
Generally, no—the Subaru Forester is a relatively economical choice within the compact SUV segment. It offers respectable fuel efficiency for an all-wheel-drive vehicle, solid reliability, and moderate maintenance costs. All-wheel drive and CVT transmissions can push costs higher in some cases, but overall ownership remains competitive compared with many rivals.
Fuel economy and running costs
These figures cover typical Forester configurations and how they translate into yearly bills. Actual performance depends on drivetrain, trim, tire choice, and driving style.
- Non-hybrid Forester (2.5L engine with CVT, AWD): roughly 26 mpg city / 33 mpg highway, about 29 mpg combined. Real-world mileage often falls within a 24–30 mpg range depending on conditions.
- Forester Hybrid (where offered): better fuel economy than the non-hybrid, typically delivering mid- to upper-30s in combined mileage in common driving scenarios.
- Effect of AWD: all-wheel drive adds weight and drivetrain losses, which can trim mpg by a few miles per gallon in some situations versus two-wheel-drive variants.
- Estimated annual fuel costs: for a driver covering about 12,000 miles per year, typical fuel expenses are typically in the ballpark of $1,400–$1,700, depending on local gas prices and actual mpg.
In practice, fuel costs are a meaningful but manageable portion of ownership. If maximizing efficiency is a priority, the Hybrid variant or careful driving with properly rated tires can yield noticeable savings over time.
Practical considerations
Driving conditions, climate, and the use of roof racks or cargo can influence fuel economy. Seasonal changes and tire choice (winter vs. all-season tires) also affect overall efficiency and running costs.
Maintenance and repair costs
Maintenance for the Forester centers on routine care, with some surprise costs tied to the CVT and tires. The goal is to keep the car reliable and predictable over the long term.
- Regular maintenance: oil changes, tire rotations, brake inspections, and system checks typically run in the mid hundreds per year, depending on shop rates and how often service is performed.
- CVT maintenance and concerns: transmission-fluid changes are recommended at manufacturer intervals; costs can range from roughly $150–$350 at a dealer or independent shop, and some owners budget for more extensive CVT service if issues arise.
- Tire costs: AWD requires matching tires for balanced handling; a full set of all-season or touring tires can cost roughly $500–$1,000+ depending on brand and size.
- Brake wear and other wear items: brake pads and rotors may add a few hundred dollars per axle when replacements are needed; regular inspections help prevent unexpected costs.
- Overall reliability: Foresters have historically good reliability for the class, with occasional CVT-related concerns in older models that improved in newer generations.
Overall, maintenance costs are in line with rivals in the compact SUV segment. Staying current with recommended service and addressing CVT intervals can help keep ownership costs steady over time.
Warranty considerations
In the United States, Subaru offers a 3-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty, plus roadside assistance. Extended warranties or maintenance plans can add predictability, especially for buyers planning long ownership horizons.
Ownership costs: insurance, depreciation, and warranty
Beyond fuel and maintenance, insurance premiums and how quickly the vehicle loses value shape total ownership costs. The Forester’s standing in reliability and resale value affects long-term economics.
- Insurance: premiums for a Forester tend to be moderate for an SUV of its size, with typical annual ranges around $1,200–$1,800 depending on location, driver profile, and coverage levels.
- Depreciation: Foresters generally retain value well within their class; five-year depreciation is commonly in the 40–50% range, varying by trim and market conditions.
- Warranty impact: standard warranties provide reassuring coverage for new-car years, reducing potential near-term outlays; ownership costs can be lowered further with extended warranty or maintenance plans if desired.
These factors collectively shape the total cost of ownership. For many buyers, the Forester remains a cost-effective option in its class, particularly when reliability and resale value are factored in.
Model-year and trim considerations: impact on running costs
Choosing between the base 2.5L model and the hybrid variant affects long-term economics. The base model typically has lower upfront costs and solid efficiency, while the hybrid improves fuel economy but carries a higher purchase price and potentially different maintenance needs.
- Base 2.5L Forester (CVT, AWD): lowest upfront cost among mainstream engines, with predictable maintenance and repair costs.
- Forester Hybrid: higher upfront price but better city/highway efficiency; possible tax incentives or rebates depending on region; system maintenance may differ from the non-hybrid.
- Wheels, tires, and trim levels: larger wheels and sport-oriented trims can raise running costs slightly through higher tire sales and potentially more frequent brake wear, so consider typical usage when selecting options.
When evaluating costs, weigh the longer-term fuel savings of a hybrid against the higher initial price and possible battery-related service needs.
Bottom line
For most buyers, the Subaru Forester offers a favorable balance of fuel efficiency, reliability, and maintenance practicality within the compact-SUV segment. While all-wheel drive and CVTs add some ongoing costs, the overall running costs are competitive with peers and can be particularly economical for those who choose the hybrid variant or maintain disciplined service schedules. Your final cost will hinge on trim choice, driving style, local fuel prices, and how aggressively you accumulate miles.
Summary
In short, Subarus Foresters are not typically expensive to run relative to mid-size and premium rivals. They deliver reasonable fuel economy for an all-wheel-drive SUV, dependable reliability, and moderate maintenance costs. The main cost considerations are fuel (especially for non-hybrid models), CVT maintenance, tires for AWD, and insurance. Hybrid variants offer the potential for meaningful fuel savings, albeit with a higher upfront price. For buyers prioritizing practicality, all-wheel-drive capability, and cost-conscious ownership, the Forester remains a solid, cost-effective choice in its segment.
