What are the downsides of a Subaru Forester?
The main drawbacks to the Forester center on drive feel, interior quality in base trims, and ownership costs tied to its all‑wheel‑drive setup. It offers strong practicality and safety features, but some buyers will find the driving experience and cabin refinement lag behind rivals in certain trims and model years.
Performance and driving dynamics
Turbo availability and model-year notes
The Forester currently relies on a single engine option in most markets: a 2.5-liter flat‑four paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). There is no turbocharged engine in the latest models, which means buyers seeking brisk acceleration should adjust expectations accordingly. Earlier years did offer a turbocharged 2.0-liter XT variant, but that powertrain is no longer available.
Below is a snapshot of the performance and dynamic characteristics you’ll typically encounter across model years.
- Power and acceleration: The 2.5L CVT delivers adequate city driving but is noticeably slower to 60 mph than many rivals with turbocharged or larger engines. Expect around the high 8 to low 9 seconds range in most configurations.
- CVT behavior and reliability: The CVT can feel buzzy or drone under steady acceleration, and some owners worry about long‑term durability and potential repair costs compared with traditional automatics.
- Handling and ride: The Forester prioritizes comfort and stability over sporty handling. It remains confident in adverse weather thanks to standard all‑wheel drive, but it isn’t the most engaging crossover to drive in corners.
- Fuel economy: AWD is standard, which helps in bad weather but can temper highway efficiency. Fuel economy is competitive but not class‑leading in its segment.
- Towing and off‑road capability: With a modest towing rating and a focus on urban practicality, the Forester isn’t designed for heavy towing or rugged rock-crawling beyond light off‑roading.
Overall, if you value quick passing power and sporty driving dynamics, the Forester’s powertrain may feel underwhelming. Its strengths lie in steady performance, predictable CVT behavior, and all‑weather confidence rather than outright speed.
Interior, tech, and practicality
Build quality and usability in daily use
Inside, the Forester emphasizes space, visibility, and practicality, but the experience can feel basic in lower trims. Higher trims upgrade to nicer materials and more tech, yet some buyers still notice bargain‑basement plastics and a less premium feel compared with some rivals.
- Materials and finish: Base and mid trims rely on durable plastics that can feel inexpensive compared with rivals that use higher‑end materials throughout the cabin.
- Infotainment and connectivity: Recent Foresters offer intuitive standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but some users report occasional lag or slower response in older software versions. Updates have improved reliability over time.
- Interior space and practicality: The Forester shines for headroom and cargo capacity, and the rear seat is comfortable for adults on longer trips. Some shoppers may wish for more rear legroom or a lower cargo floor in certain configurations.
- Storage and convenience features: A wide array of cubbies and thoughtful storage options are a strength, but some trims lack the most premium feel in climate controls or switches compared with rivals.
- Comfort on long drives: Seats are generally supportive, but long‑haul comfort can vary by trim and fabric choice; climate control implementation is typically straightforward rather than fancy.
In day‑to‑day use, the Forester’s interior balances practicality with modest refinement. If you want a more premium cabin feel or cutting‑edge tech on every trim level, you may notice a gap compared with some compact‑SUV rivals.
Ownership costs, reliability, and resale
Maintenance, recalls, and long‑term ownership
Ownership costs for a Forester are influenced by its standard all‑wheel drive and the CVT drivetrain. While reliability is generally solid, potential buyers should consider drivetrain maintenance costs and occasional model‑year service campaigns that affect total ownership expenses.
- CVT maintenance and repairs: The CVT is a key cost driver. Regular maintenance is important, and repairs can be more expensive than conventional automatics if problems arise later in a vehicle’s life.
- Engine and oil history: While the current 2.5L engine is typically reliable, some older model years have had reports of higher oil consumption or other engine‑related concerns. Checking a full service history is advisable when buying used.
- AWD impact on fuel economy and maintenance: All‑wheel drive improves traction but can add to maintenance costs and reduce fuel economy slightly compared with two‑wheel‑drive rivals, especially in urban use.
- Recalls and service campaigns: Like many brands, Subaru has issued recalls and service campaigns that affect Foresters across various years. Verify one’s recall status and ensure address of any campaigns before purchase or during ownership.
- Resale value: Subarus, including the Forester, tend to hold value well relative to peers in many markets, due in part to all‑weather capability and brand perception. However, the value proposition varies by year and condition, so a thorough history is key.
Ownership costs and reliability are typically favorable for the Forester, but the CVT and AWD‑related maintenance should be budgeted for, especially on higher‑mileage examples. A pre‑purchase inspection and a careful review of service history will help mitigate surprises down the line.
Bottom line and alternatives
In sum, the Subaru Forester remains a strong contender for buyers who prioritize safety, visibility, and all‑weather practicality. Its downsides center on non‑sporty performance, a cabin that isn’t particularly upscale at the base level, and maintenance considerations tied to the CVT and AWD system. If you value a calm, secure ride and rugged‑weather capability over brisk acceleration or premium interior touches, the Forester is a compelling choice. If you want sharper performance or a more luxurious interior, you might compare with rivals such as the Honda CR‑V, Toyota RAV4, or Mazda CX‑5 to see how their trade‑offs line up with your needs.
Summary
The Forester excels in practicality, safety features, and standard all‑wheel drive, making it a strong daily driver in variable weather. Its downsides are mostly around powertrain feel, interior refinement on lower trims, and potential ownership costs tied to the CVT and AWD systems. Prospective buyers should weigh these factors against the Forester’s proven reliability, spacious interior, and strong market value when deciding if it’s the right compact SUV for their needs.
Are there any bad years for the Subaru Forester?
Common Issues Affecting Subaru Forester Reliability
Excessive oil consumption: This is a problem with many 2011-2014 Foresters and can lead to engine damage if ignored. Head gasket failure: This issue caused coolant leaks and overheating in some 1998-2011 models.
What are the disadvantages of a Subaru?
Common cons for Subaru include issues with transmission (especially CVTs), excessive oil consumption, and problems with head gaskets on older models. Other drawbacks can include lower fuel efficiency compared to some competitors, a reputation for weak interior quality and materials, potential electrical issues, and some complaints about infotainment systems.
This video discusses several potential issues with Subaru vehicles, including transmission problems: 56sMrSubaru1387YouTube · Feb 2, 2025
Engine and transmission
- Oil Consumption: Many Subaru engines, particularly turbocharged ones, can have issues with excessive oil consumption.
- Head Gasket Failure: While mostly an issue with older models (pre-2012), head gasket failure remains a known potential problem that can lead to oil or coolant leaks.
- CVT Transmission Issues: Subaru's continuously variable transmissions (CVTs) have a history of problems, with some models experiencing costly failures, overheating, or other issues.
- Engine Stalling/Overheating: Some models have been associated with stalling or overheating problems.
Interior and technology
- Interior Quality: Some owners report that the interior materials feel cheap, with hard plastics and flimsy trim, and that road noise can be a significant issue.
- Infotainment System: The Subaru Starlink infotainment system has been criticized for being difficult to use.
Other issues
- Cracked Windshields: Some owners report a tendency for their Subaru windshields to crack prematurely.
- Fuel Efficiency: Subaru vehicles are not always the most fuel-efficient, especially when compared to some competitors.
- Electrical Problems: There are various reports of electrical problems, such as issues with the fuel pump or light switches.
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.
What are the pros and cons of Forester?
Pros: space, safety, reliability, eyesight , just the amount of area you can see while driving. Cons: MPG on some models, the tech isn't the top of the line. Doesn't have the most horsepower or ability to get from 0-60, but if you aren't into those things it does just fine. Windshields break easily.
