What is the resale value on a Subaru?
Subaru vehicles generally retain value better than many mainstream brands, with five-year resale values commonly around half of the original MSRP, though exact figures depend on model, trim, mileage, and condition.
How resale value is measured
Analysts track resale value by comparing a used model’s price after a fixed period to its original sticker price, then adjust for mileage, condition, and market demand. The brand-wide story for Subaru combines strong all-wheel-drive appeal, reliability, and practical design with relatively stable demand in the used-car market.
Key drivers tied to how much a Subaru will fetch on the used market:
- Mileage and overall wear
- Service and maintenance history
- Accident history and title status
- All-wheel drive and drivetrain configuration
- Original price and trim level
- Model demand and consumer perception of reliability
- Color and interior materials
- Regional market trends and supply of used Subarus
In practice, these factors interact to determine resale value; a well-kept Subaru with low miles on a desirable model typically commands a premium over a higher-mileage or poorly maintained example.
Model-specific resale value outlook
Subaru's best value retention tends to cluster around its most popular crossovers and wagons. The Outback, Forester, and Crosstrek typically lead the lineup in resale value, with sportier or niche models like the WRX offering solid retention but more variability based on mileage and aftermarket use. Less recently updated models like Impreza generally show weaker resale compared with the main SUV lineup.
Outback
The Outback is frequently cited as one of Subaru's strongest value-retention performers due to its broad appeal, rugged practicality, and high ownership volume. Expect stronger-than-average resale for well-maintained examples, especially in mid-range trims with standard features and all-wheel drive.
Typical 5-year resale values for a well-kept Outback can hover around the mid-to-upper 40s to low-50s percent of original MSRP, though exact numbers vary by year, mileage, and condition.
Forester
As Subaru's best-selling model in many markets, the Forester tends to hold value well thanks to space, reliability, and strong consumer demand. Clean, low-mileage Foresters with practical features tend to perform best on resale.
5-year value retention for a well-cared-for Forester often mirrors that of the Outback, typically in the 40-50% range of original MSRP depending on trim and mileage.
Crosstrek
The Crosstrek blends compact efficiency with rugged capability, which keeps it popular on the used market. Demand remains solid among younger buyers and urban-to-suburban buyers looking for AWD and good fuel economy.
Estimated 5-year resale values for Crosstrek models in good condition usually sit near or above 50% of MSRP, with variation by year and mileage.
WRX
Subaru's WRX offers a performance-oriented niche. While its resale potential is strong for well-kept examples, high ownership costs and mileage can depress value more than practical models.
On average, WRX retain value in the mid-40s to mid-50s percent range over five years for cars with typical mileage and ownership history. Extremely well-maintained or low-mileage cars may perform better, while heavily driven or modified cars can see steeper depreciation.
Ascent
The Ascent, Subaru's three-row SUV, has steady resale value characteristics driven by family utility and brand appeal, though it doesn't command as much demand as the smaller crossovers.
Expect 5-year resale values in the low-to-mid 40% range for well-kept models, with variations by trim level and local market demand.
Impreza
Impreza models usually lag a bit behind the rest of the lineup in resale value, largely due to aging design and smaller market share as Subaru emphasized SUVs in recent years.
5-year resale values for Impreza models tend to be in the low-to-mid 40% range, with larger drops if mileage is high or notable wear is present.
Legacy
The Legacy sedan has solid reliability and value retention, but as demand shifts toward SUVs, its resale trajectory can be more modest compared with top Subaru crossovers.
Well-maintained Legacy sedans often fetch resale values in the mid-40% range after five years, depending on year and mileage.
What buyers can do to protect resale value
Owners who want to maximize future resale value should focus on documentation, maintenance, and keeping the vehicle in good condition. Here are practical steps:
- Keep comprehensive maintenance records and service receipts
- Follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule
- Address collisions or cosmetic damage promptly and maintain a clean title
- Preserve the AWD system and ensure tires are in good condition
- Limit aftermarket modifications that may reduce appeal to a broad buyer base
- Use a consistent color and avoid unusual options that deter future buyers
In practice, the combination of meticulous upkeep, honest disclosures, and a clean, well-presented vehicle typically yields the best resale outcomes.
Market snapshot and outlook
As of 2025, the used-subaru market remains resilient thanks to strong consumer demand for all-wheel-drive practicality, safety ratings, and the brand’s reputation for reliability. Gas prices, macroeconomic conditions, and supply of late-model trade-ins influence prices regionally. For buyers, a model with a clean history and relatively low mileage tends to offer the best value; for sellers, timing and market conditions can swing the realized price by thousands of dollars.
Summary
Subaru vehicles generally hold their value well compared with many mainstream brands, with five-year resale values typically in the 40-60% range of original MSRP depending on model, trim, mileage, and condition. The Outback, Forester, and Crosstrek are among the lineup’s strongest value retainers, while Impreza and some sedan models tend to lag. Prospective buyers and current owners can protect resale value by maintaining service records, avoiding major accidents, and keeping the vehicle in good condition. Always consider local market conditions and the specific model when estimating resale value.
Which Subaru model has the best resale value?
The Subaru models with the highest resale value and value retention are the WRX, Forester, Crosstek, Impreza, and BRZ, each staying close to 60%.
Why do subarus have such a high resale value?
Exceptional Reliability
Many Subaru models regularly exceed 200,000 miles with proper maintenance, which reassures buyers looking for a dependable used car. This reliability helps keep resale prices high, as buyers are willing to pay a premium for a vehicle that will last.
What year to stay away from a Subaru Outback?
Years to avoid for the Subaru Outback include 2010–2014, which had widespread CVT, oil consumption, and oil leak issues, and 2018, which had recalls and reliability concerns. Additionally, some sources recommend avoiding the 2005–2007 models due to head gasket problems and the 2020 model, which had electrical and windshield issues.
Years to avoid
- 2010–2014: These models are frequently cited for significant transmission issues (CVT), oil consumption, and general reliability problems. The 2010 model specifically had issues with the torque converter locking up.
- 2018: This year saw recalls and owner complaints related to oil consumption, exhaust components, and electrical issues.
- 2005–2007: These models are known for head gasket failures, which can cause coolant and oil leaks.
- 2020: This model year is associated with a high number of electrical problems, including dead batteries and stalling, as well as issues with the windshield cracking from small chips.
Other potential problem years
- 2013: Frequently mentioned for oil consumption issues.
- 2015: Some reports list it with electrical and engine problems.
- 2017: Reliability issues were noted.
Do subarus hold their resale value?
Yes, Subarus generally hold their resale value well, with many models consistently ranking high in their categories for retaining value. This is due to factors like their standard all-wheel-drive, reputation for reliability and durability, and strong brand loyalty.
- Industry accolades: Subaru has received awards for best resale value from organizations like Kelley Blue Book and ALG.
- Popular models: Models like the Crosstrek, Forester, and Outback are frequently recognized for their strong resale value. Some reports show models like the Impreza also retaining value well.
- Key features:
- Standard all-wheel drive: A major selling point, as it's a standard feature on most models.
- Reliability and safety: Subaru's consistent reputation for safety and dependability is a key factor in maintaining value.
- Durability: The engineering and design contribute to the vehicles' long-lasting appeal.
- Brand loyalty: A strong community and a loyal customer base also help support high demand and resale values.
- Used car market: Used Subarus are often sought after, and some models may hit a sweet spot for used car buyers where they are an attractive value.
