How much should I pay for a Subaru Forester?
New Foresters generally sticker between about $28,000 and $40,000 before incentives, while used examples vary widely—from roughly $12,000 to the low $30,000s—depending on age and mileage. This article breaks down current pricing, explains what drives the cost, and offers practical steps to land a fair deal in 2025.
All Forester models sold in the United States come with standard all-wheel drive, and destination charges typically apply. Prices vary by region, dealer demand, and monthly incentives, so it’s important to benchmark against trusted valuation sources and shop multiple dealers.
New Subaru Forester: pricing you can expect
Understanding what goes into the price helps you compare quotes accurately. The following factors commonly influence the out-the-door price of a new Forester:
These items summarize the main price components you’ll encounter when shopping for a new Forester.
- Base MSRP range: entry-level Forester models typically start in the upper $20ks (approximate) and rise with trims and options.
- Destination charge: usually around $1,200, but this varies by region and model year.
- Popular packages and options: EyeSight driver-assist, power rear gate, upscale audio, leather seating, and sunroof can add several hundred to several thousand dollars.
- Dealer incentives and financing offers: factory incentives, seasonal promotions, and special lease/financing deals can reduce the effective price or monthly payments.
- Taxes, fees, and registration: local taxes, title, and registration vary by state and municipality and are not included in the sticker price.
Concluding: The final figure you pay is a mix of trim choice, optional equipment, incentives, and the out-the-door price negotiated with the dealer. Always request an itemized, out-the-door quote to compare apples to apples.
Used Subaru Forester: price ranges by year and condition
Used Foresters can deliver substantial savings, especially if you’re flexible on year, mileage, and trim. Here’s a practical sense of typical asking prices in today’s used-car market, recognizing that mileage, condition, and regional demand heavily influence value:
These bullets outline common pricing bands for used Foresters based on age and mileage.
- 0–3 years old: commonly found in the low to mid $20k’s, with well-equipped trims often edging toward the upper $20k’s to low $30k’s depending on mileage.
- 3–6 years old: often in the mid-$20k’s to high-$20k’s range, with lower mileage models pushing toward the low $30k’s.
- 6–9 years old: typically in the low to mid $20k’s, with mileage and condition creating a wider spread near the $15k–$25k band.
- 10+ years old: generally under $15k, with high-mileage examples often in the mid-to-upper teens or lower.
Concluding: Always verify values with reputable sources and a vehicle history report. Regional supply, seasonality, and local dealer inventory can push prices up or down.
How to determine a fair price and negotiate
To avoid overpaying and to maximize your leverage, follow a disciplined approach that centers on data-driven offers and transparent comparisons.
Use trusted online valuation tools
Consult Kelley Blue Book (KBB), Edmunds, and TrueCar to establish a fair purchase price based on your area, the vehicle’s condition, and your desired trim.
Shop multiple dealers and watch timing
Request quotes from several dealers and be mindful of timing—end-of-month or model-year turnover periods can yield better rebates or price flexibility.
Negotiate the out-the-door price, then financing separately
Start with the total price of the car, including destination and fees, before discussing trade-ins or financing. Compare factory incentives and loan offers side-by-side, and decline add-ons you don’t want.
Summary
For a new Subaru Forester, plan on roughly $28,000–$40,000 before incentives, depending on trim and options; for a used Forester, expect a broad range—from under $15,000 for older high-mileage examples to the low-to-mid $30,000s for newer, well-optioned models. Prices vary by region and time, so consult updated valuation tools and gather multiple quotes to anchor your negotiations. With careful comparison and smart timing, you can secure a fair price that reflects current market conditions.
