How big is the back of a Subaru Forester with seats down?
The rear cargo area of a current Subaru Forester with the rear seats folded down measures about 76.1 cubic feet (roughly 2.15 cubic meters).
This figure comes from Subaru’s official specifications for the Forester’s recent generations (roughly 2020s through 2025). It reflects a largely flat load floor that makes it practical for hauling large items, luggage, or gear. Actual usable space can vary slightly by model year, trim, and how exactly the floor is configured in your vehicle.
Official capacity and practical use
Below are the key figures and notes you should know when the rear seats are folded.
- Maximum cargo volume with seats folded: 76.1 cubic feet (2.15 cubic meters).
- Configuration: rear seats fold flat to create a continuous, near-flat load floor.
- Model-year applicability: the 76.1 cu ft figure applies to recent Forester generations; check your specific year’s official spec for exact numbers.
- Class context: this level of space is competitive within the compact SUV category and supports a wide range of loading needs.
With the seats folded, the Forester offers a sizable, flat cargo area that helps loading large items and multi-piece loads. Real-world space will depend on the exact year and trim, but the 76.1 cubic feet figure serves as the standard benchmark for modern models.
Practical considerations and usage tips
To maximize usable space, remove bulky interior components (like cargo covers or retractable organizers) when needed, and place longer items along the load floor to avoid gaps toward the rear hatch. If you’re planning a move or a camping trip, it’s helpful to measure the items you intend to carry and compare them to the 76.1 cu ft benchmark to gauge whether you’ll fit everything in one go.
Summary
In short, a newer Subaru Forester delivers about 76.1 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded, making it one of the more versatile options in the compact-SUV class for carrying large or multiple items. Always verify the exact specification for your model year and trim, but the 76.1 cu ft figure provides a solid baseline for planning loading needs. For precise measurements and any year-specific quirks, consult the official Subaru spec sheet or a local dealer.
How big is a Subaru Forester trunk with seats down?
69.1 cubic feet
This nimble SUV has you covered! Unlock up to 74.4 cubic feet of Subaru Forester cargo space when the rear seats are folded down in the entry-level trim or 69.1 cubic feet in the higher tiers.
What is the weakness of a Subaru Forester?
Oil Consumption
Many drivers have reported that they need to get their oil changed more frequently than they have had to in other cars. This is likely due to oil cracks or leaks in the camshaft and crankshaft seals as well as the oil pump seal.
Can you fit a mattress in the back of a Subaru Forester?
It fits into the cubby holes in the very back by the rear door. The cover for the boot sits on top. Pretty level this way. Got a memory foam mattress, 4'' thick I think. It was like 60 bucks, its amazing, got it on ebay. Folds well enough to fit in the back with the seats up, and still can see out of the rear window.
Can I sleep in the back of a Forester?
Yes, you can sleep in the back of a Subaru Forester, as it is long enough for many people to lie down after folding the rear seats. To create a comfortable sleeping area, you can use a twin-sized air mattress, foam pads, or a custom-fit mattress, though you may need to arrange the front seats to maximize space. Some people add a custom platform to the rear, especially to level out the area, which can also provide extra storage underneath.
Tips for sleeping in a Subaru Forester
- Prepare the sleeping surface:
- Fold down the rear seats to create a nearly flat surface.
- Remove the rear headrests and potentially adjust the front seats to gain more length.
- Use padding, such as a foam pad or inflatable mattress, to sleep on, and place a thin mat underneath to even out any imperfections.
- Maximize the space:
- Use a mattress specifically designed for car camping, like a twin-sized air mattress or a custom-fit mattress, as standard ones don't use the space efficiently.
- Consider building a platform with plywood to create a more level sleeping area, especially to cover the gap created by the folded seats. This can also be used to create storage space underneath.
- Ensure comfort and ventilation:
- Use window vent shades or tint to provide privacy, control light, and allow you to crack the windows slightly for ventilation without getting wet or being seen.
- Store extra gear, food, and personal items in bins, duffel bags, or containers to keep the sleeping area tidy.
- Other considerations:
- Keep the interior clean to make the space more comfortable for sleeping.
- Consider the benefits of sleeping in a car, such as security and protection from the weather, especially for music festivals or camping trips.
