Is there going to be a 2023 Subaru Forester?
Yes — the 2023 Subaru Forester exists as part of Subaru’s 2023 lineup. It began arriving at U.S. dealers in late 2022 and continued through 2023, offering standard all-wheel drive, a 2.5-liter flat-four engine, and Subaru’s EyeSight safety suite across most trims. The model carried over familiar practicality with some refinements for the year.
Release Timeline and Availability
Here are the key points about when and where the 2023 Forester was available and how buyers accessed it.
- Model-year designation: 2023 Forester released as part of Subaru’s 2023 lineup.
- Market availability: Primarily sold in the United States and Canada, with broader availability in other regions where the Forester is offered.
- Dealership rollout: Arrived at Subaru dealerships in late 2022 and continued into the 2023 calendar year.
- Trim distribution: The lineup typically included Base, Premium, Sport, Limited, and Premier trims, with a Wilderness edition offered in some markets or model years as an off-road-focused variant.
In short, shoppers could find a 2023 Forester through Subaru dealers during the 2022–2023 window, and the model remained in active production and sale for that model year across its usual markets.
Trims and Core Features
Here is a snapshot of the main trim levels and what they generally offered for the 2023 Forester.
- Base
- Premium
- Sport
- Limited
- Premier
- Wilderness (off-road-focused edition available in some markets)
The 2023 Forester continued to rely on a 2.5-liter horizontally opposed four-cylinder engine delivering around 182 horsepower, paired with Subaru’s standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and a continuously variable transmission. Across most trims, buyers could expect a strong emphasis on safety and practicality, including Subaru’s EyeSight driver-assist system, good interior versatility, and a user-friendly infotainment setup. Optional or bundled features commonly included heated seats, a panoramic sunroof, and enhanced audio or navigation options depending on trim and packages.
Notable Tech and Safety Features
Before you dive into a purchase, here are the standout tech and safety elements that were commonly associated with the 2023 Forester.
- 2.5-liter flat-four engine (about 182 hp) with CVT
- Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive
- EyeSight driver-assist safety suite (standard on most trims)
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration via the Starlink infotainment system
- X-Mode for optimized traction in challenging conditions
- Interior features such as a usable cargo area, available heated seats, and a power-adjustable driver’s seat
Together, these elements marked the 2023 Forester as a practical, safety-forward compact SUV with strong value in its segment, appealing to families, outdoor enthusiasts, and daily commuters alike.
Summary
The 2023 Subaru Forester was a real model year in Subaru’s lineup, available at dealers from late 2022 onward and continuing through 2023. It featured the brand’s hallmark all-wheel drive, a reliable 2.5L engine, a strong safety package, and a practical interior. For buyers considering 2023 models, or shopping for a used example from that year, the Forester offered a balanced mix of versatility, safety, and value, with trim levels that cater to different priorities—from efficiency and comfort to light off-road capability.
Is Subaru coming out with a 2026 Forester?
The upcoming 2026 Subaru Forester Hybrid introduces next-generation hybrid efficiency alongside renowned all-wheel drive performance. Subaru of Olathe is proud to welcome this highly anticipated SUV and offer drivers a chance to experience a perfect blend of efficient engineering and adventurous capability.
Is the 2025 Forester redesigned?
The 2025 Subaru Forester all-wheel drive compact SUV is completely redesigned for even more sophisticated style, updated technology, and versatile features.
Which is more reliable, the Toyota RAV4 or the Subaru Forester?
The Toyota RAV4 generally has a reputation for higher long-term reliability than the Subaru Forester, with lower average annual repair costs and less frequent, severe repairs. However, the Subaru Forester has a strong reputation and a higher rating from Consumer Reports and J.D. Power, particularly with the newer models. Both are considered good choices, and recent model years of the Forester have been redesigned to be more reliable.
You can watch this video to learn about the reliability of RAV4 and Forester: 1mAutomotive Anonymous YouTube · Dec 14, 2024
Toyota RAV4
- Higher reliability rating: Often ranks higher in reliability surveys and has lower average annual repair costs.
- Longer-term ownership: Has a strong reputation for minimizing long-term issues and frequent maintenance, partly due to its engine technology and hybrid options.
- Lower repair costs: Has an average annual repair cost of $429, which is significantly lower than the Forester's $632.
Subaru Forester
- Strong safety and ratings: Earned a higher overall rating from Consumer Reports and a highest-tier safety rating from the IIHS.
- Improving reliability: Recent redesigns have made reliability improvements, such as reintroducing mechanical thermostats and eliminating less reliable systems.
- Average repair costs: Has an average annual repair cost of $632 and average frequency and severity of repairs compared to other vehicles.
Which one is right for you?
- Choose the RAV4 if: Your priority is maximum long-term reliability and the lowest ownership costs, especially over many years of ownership.
- Choose the Forester if: You want a vehicle with a strong safety record, good visibility, and a capable all-wheel-drive system. You should consider the model year, as reliability has been improving with recent redesigns.
This video compares the performance and features of RAV4 and Forester: 52sAutoMobiYouTube · Oct 30, 2025
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.
