What are the outside dimensions of a Subaru Forester?

For the current-generation Forester, the exterior dimensions are roughly 182 inches in length, about 71.5 inches in width, and around 66 inches in height, with a wheelbase near 105 inches. Exact figures can vary by model year, trim level, and wheel/tire package.

The question of exterior size matters for parking, garage fit, and overall presence on the road. Subarus are designed to balance cargo capacity with living-room interior space, and small changes across years can affect measurements by a fraction of an inch. The figures below reflect typical specifications for the latest available model year and note variations you might encounter on specific trims or variants.

Current exterior dimensions

Below is a concise summary of the main exterior measurements used by Subaru for the Forester. Values are given in inches and metric equivalents for quick reference.

• Length: 182.0–182.1 inches (4,620–4,628 mm)


• Width (excluding mirrors): 71.5 inches (1,815 mm)


• Height: approximately 66.0–66.1 inches (1,677–1,678 mm)


• Wheelbase: 105.1 inches (2,670 mm)

Notes: The measurements above are representative of the latest model-year specifications. Actual figures may vary by trim level, roof racks, and wheel/tire options. Wheelbase and overall length are the most stable constants, while width and height can shift slightly with different mirrors or factory-installed gear.

Why dimensions can vary

Cargo rails, roof rails, and optional wheel packages can slightly alter the vehicle’s width and height in published specs. In addition, regional market differences or updates during a mid-cycle refresh may adjust exact numbers by a few millimeters. If you need a precise figure for a specific car, consult the original window sticker or Subaru's official specification sheet for that model year.

Practical considerations and related measurements

Outside dimensions interact with other practical factors like turning radius, cargo space, and garage clearance. While not asked for, these numbers can help with real-world planning:

• Turning radius: typically around 18–19 feet, depending on the year and wheel/tire setup


• Cargo capacity with rear seats up: about 28–30 cubic feet, expanding to roughly 76 cubic feet with rear seats folded (these figures vary by model year and trim)

In practice, most drivers will find the Forester’s footprint comfortable for urban and suburban use, with enough interior room for passengers and cargo while remaining easy to maneuver for its class.

Summary

The Subaru Forester’s outside dimensions for the latest model years are centered around a length of about 182 inches, a width of about 71.5 inches (excluding mirrors), a height near 66 inches, and a wheelbase close to 105 inches. While these figures cover the general profile, exact numbers can differ slightly by year, trim, and wheel package. For the most precise specification, check the official Subaru spec sheet or the window sticker for the specific vehicle in question.

Conclusion

Understanding the Forester’s exterior size helps with garage planning, parking, and comparing it to other compact SUVs. When shopping, verify the exact figures for the specific model year and trim you’re considering to ensure the dimensions match your needs. A dealership or Subaru’s official website can provide the precise numbers for the exact car you’re evaluating.

What year to stay away from a Subaru Forester?

You should generally stay away from Subaru Forester model years known for significant engine issues, such as the 1998–2001, 2003, 2006, 2009, and 2010 models due to head gasket failures and other problems. The 2011–2014 and 2014–2018 models are also problematic, particularly for excessive oil consumption, CVT transmission issues, and suspension problems, according to sources like Panda Hub, CoPilot for Car Shopping, CarBuzz, and MotorBiscuit. 
Specific model years to avoid

• 1998–2001: These early models are known for frequent head gasket failures, which can be costly to repair. 
• 2003 and 2006: These model years experienced recurring head gasket issues and other problems like electrical malfunctions and cooling system failures. 
• 2009–2010: These years saw engine stalling, head gasket problems, and engine oil pipe ruptures. The 2010 model received particularly low reliability ratings. 
• 2011–2014: The 2.5L engine (FB25) in these models is known for excessive oil consumption, which can lead to engine damage if not addressed. The 2011 model also had poor oil warning light design. 
• 2014: Often cited as one of the worst model years, this model is known for severe oil consumption, CVT transmission problems, and broken coil springs. 
• 2015: Continued issues with engine and transmission troubles were reported, along with airbag sensor malfunctions. 
• 2018: Recall issues related to faulty rear suspension springs and engine valves affected some models. 

Common issues across multiple years

• Head gasket failure: A common issue in many pre-2012 models, especially those with the 2.5L EJ series engine, typically occurring around 60,000 to 100,000 miles. 
• Excessive oil consumption: A major problem in models with the newer FB25 engine from 2011 to 2014, which can cause serious engine damage. 
• Transmission issues: The 2014 model's CVT transmission was prone to problems, and the 2015 model also had reports of transmission troubles. 
• Suspension and wheel bearings: Problems with rear suspension springs and premature wheel bearing wear were reported in some models, including the 2014. 
• Cracking windshields: A widespread issue across multiple model years, including the 2014 and 2017, which even led to a class-action lawsuit. 

What to look for when buying a used Forester

• If considering an older model (1998-2012), check for documented evidence of head gasket replacement, preferably with upgraded multi-layer steel gaskets. 
• For 2011-2014 models, be aware of excessive oil consumption and ensure the owner is diligent about checking oil levels. If possible, check the VIN for any service bulletins or extended warranty coverage related to oil consumption. 
• If looking at a 2014 or newer, get a pre-purchase inspection, with a specific focus on the transmission and suspension. 
• Look for rust, especially in areas with heavy road salt use. 

How does Forester's size compare to other SUVs?

The Forester provides significantly more passenger space than the RAV4 (110.8 vs. 98.9 cubic feet).

What are the exterior dimensions of a Subaru Forester?

The Subaru Forester's exterior dimensions vary slightly by trim, but the 2025 model's standard dimensions are approximately 183.3 inches long, 72 inches wide, and 68.1 inches high. The wheelbase is 105.1 inches for most trims, with the Wilderness trim having a slightly shorter wheelbase of 104.9 inches. The standard ground clearance is 8.7 inches, but the Wilderness trim has a higher ground clearance of 9.2 inches.
 

Dimension	Standard (2025)	Wilderness (2025)
Length	183.3 in	182.7 in
Width	72 in	72.2 in
Height	68.1 in	68.9 in
Wheelbase	105.1 in	104.9 in
Ground Clearance	8.7 in	9.2 in

(function(){
(this||self).Wufxzb=function(c,e,f,l,k){var d=document.getElementById(c);if(d&&(d.offsetWidth!==0||d.offsetHeight!==0)){c=d.querySelector("div");var g=c.scrollWidth-c.offsetWidth,h=Math.min(e?g:0,g);c.scrollLeft=e&&(l||f)?0:h;var a=d.getElementsByTagName("g-left-button")[0],b=d.getElementsByTagName("g-right-button")[0];a&&b&&(e=RegExp("\\btHT0l\\b"),f=RegExp("\\bpQXcHc\\b"),a.className=a.className.replace(e,""),b.className=b.className.replace(e,""),h===0?a.className="pQXcHc "+a.className:(a.className=
a.className.replace(f,""),k&&c.classList.add("pA30Ne")),h===g?b.className="pQXcHc "+b.className:(b.className=b.className.replace(f,""),k&&c.classList.add("FpCCub")),setTimeout(function(){a.className+=" tHT0l";b.className+=" tHT0l"},50))}};}).call(this);(function(){var id='_BPEladWVDaa1i-gP75nosQ8_148';var rtl=false;var gecko=false;var edge=false;var soh=false;
(this||self).Wufxzb(id,rtl,gecko,edge,soh);})();

What is the most common problem with the Subaru Forester?

The most common problem with the Subaru Forester is the continuously variable transmission (CVT), which can suffer from issues like shuddering, delayed acceleration, and whining noises, and may require expensive repairs. Other frequent issues include problems with the engine (especially oil consumption), the electrical system, and, in certain model years, issues with windshields cracking and batteries dying quickly.
 
Transmission (CVT)

• Shuddering and jerking: This often occurs when accelerating from a stop.
• Delayed acceleration and slipping: The engine revs up but the car doesn't speed up as expected, which can be dangerous when merging.
• High-pitched whining: This can be a sign of worn pulley bearings inside the transmission.
• Repair cost: CVTs are often not rebuildable and require a complete, expensive replacement. 

Engine

• Excessive oil consumption: Many model years, particularly from the 2014-2018 generation, are known for burning through oil rapidly.
• Oil leaks: Leaks, often requiring expensive engine replacements, are another reported problem. 

Electrical and other issues

• Electrical malfunctions: Issues can range from infotainment system glitches and GPS errors to more serious problems like a battery dying prematurely or the EyeSight safety system turning off unexpectedly. 
• Air conditioning (AC): Some models experience AC failure that can be costly to fix. 
• Windshields: In the 2019-2024 generation, windshields can crack from small chips. 
• Airbag malfunctions: Older models, such as the 2009-2011, have been associated with malfunctioning airbags.