Which Subaru Forester models have leather seats?

Leather seats in the Forester are standard on the Limited and Touring trims; other trims are typically cloth, and leather is not commonly offered as a factory option on newer model years. This article breaks down the current layout and explains how to verify leather availability for the year you’re considering.

Leather seating by trim: what to expect in the latest model year

In the latest Forester lineup sold in the United States, leather upholstery is standard on the Limited and Touring trims. Trims below those levels usually come with cloth upholstery, and leather may not be offered as a factory option on those models in recent years. Availability can vary by year and region, so always confirm the exact configuration for the car you are evaluating.

• Limited — Leather seats standard (leather-trimmed upholstery)


• Touring — Leather seats standard (leather-trimmed upholstery)

Note: Availability can vary by model year and region. If you are shopping older model years or a different market, verify the leather option with the dealer or the official brochure for that year.

How to verify leather availability for your Forester year

To confirm leather options for a specific model year, use official brochures, the Subaru build configurator online, and the dealer's configuration screen. When shopping used, inspect the seat surfaces and request the build sheet if available.

Check official documentation and dealer configuration

Review the year’s Subaru brochure and use the online configurator to see whether leather-trim upholstery is included in Limited or Touring, or offered as an option on other trims.

Used-car considerations

For used Foresters, check the seating surface for wear and verify whether the vehicle has leather or leather-trim upholstery. Ask for the window sticker or a copy of the original build sheet if possible.

Summary

Leather seats are a hallmark of Subaru Forester’s higher-end trims, with Limited and Touring typically offering leather as standard. To ensure you get the exact configuration you want, verify the model year’s brochure or speak with a dealer or seller about the leather option on that specific car.

Which Forester has leather seats?

The Subaru Forester has leather seats on the Limited and Touring trim levels. The Touring trim is the most luxurious and comes with premium Nappa leather, heated and ventilated front seats, and heated rear seats. The Limited trim also features leather-trimmed upholstery, often with features like a leather-wrapped steering wheel.
 

• Limited: Comes with leather-trimmed upholstery and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. 
• Touring: The most premium option, featuring Nappa leather, heated and ventilated front seats, and heated rear seats. 

Do any Subaru SUVs have leather seats?

The Forester Touring trim also comes with exclusive saddle brown leather-trimmed seats. The trend stays true: the Subaru Outback Limited comes standard with leather seats. However, the Outback is available in seven trim variants, with three offering leather-trimmed seats: Limited, Touring, and touring XT.

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. 
You can watch this video to learn more about the worst model years for the Subaru Forester: 44sCar ExpertlyYouTube · Apr 14, 2025
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. 

What's the difference between a Forester Premium and Forester Limited?

Sport and Premium have cloth seats. Limited has leather seats. Some people like the luxurious look of leather but cloth is more low-maintenance, cooler in summer and warmer in winter. Sport + the package is the sweet spot for utility.