The 2011 Subaru Forester is a compact SUV ranging from $7,641 to $12,023 in the used market. It has the plush ride and power you expect in a larger SUV, while still being nimble and able to go anywhere. It’s easy to recommend this small SUV.
2011 Subaru Forester: Quick Overview
- For the 2011 model year, Subaru added the more luxurious Touring model to its lineup. It scores above-average in overall reliability.
- Two engines are available for the Forester including a turbocharged powerhouse.
- Forester ranks sixth in its class for fuel economy with a combined rating of up to 23 miles per gallon.
- It scores average for safety, getting 4-stars in government crash tests. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) awards it a Top Safety Pick.
- The 2011 Forester ranks in the middle of the compact SUV market based on owner reviews. It is missing some of the latest technology and interior material could be better. Long-lasting engines and an all-wheel-drive system help it stand out from the pack.
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Problems Does the 2011 Subaru Forester Have?
2011 is a good year for the Subaru Forester since it has fewer complaints than other model years. The 2011 Subaru Forester suffers from airbag recalls and one of the most common complaints reported is excessive oil consumption. This can lead to more wear and tear on the engine as oil levels drop. It is a good idea to always top off the oil in your Forester. Other problems reported by owners include soft brake pedal feel and issues with the exterior lights.
There are fifteen recalls affecting the 2011 Forester. Most of the recalls involve airbag inflators, which are common across all cars. Other recalls include ignition switch issues, power relays, and brake line problems.
What are the Prices, Models & Specs?
The 2011 Subaru Forester can be found used from $7,641 to $12,023 depending on the mileage and model. When it was new it had an original price of $20,495 to $29,995. The Forester does a good job of holding its value, depreciating only 40% in the first 5 years.
- The base model is the 5X. Standard with cloth seating, remote door locks, power-adjustable mirrors, and a CD Player with 4 speakers.
- Next in the lineup is the 5X Premium. Upgrades include a roof rack, 8-way driver’s seat, power windows, iPod integration, and Bluetooth connectivity.
- Above that is the 5X Limited adding leather seating, heated front seats, a leather steering wheel, and an upgraded stereo with 7 speakers.
- The 5X Touring featuring a rear-view camera, dual-zone climate control, and power folding rear seats is the next upgraded trim.
- The 5XT Limited and Touring models both offer the same interior features as the 2.5X models, but with an added spoiler, hood scoop, and upgraded turbocharged engine.
How Long Will the 2011 Subaru Forester Last?
The 2011 Subaru Forester is a compact SUV capable of lasting over 200,000 miles when cared for. This estimate is based on ownership data and reviews. Repair Pal estimates it will cost $670 per year to maintain a Forester, more expensive than other vehicles in its class.
Yes it is very reliable I haven't had any significant problems with it since purchased it that weren't covered under the warranty.
It has been a very reliable car. It has only had routine maintenance at the dealership other than the airbag recall. I am retired and only put about 9000 miles per year on it.
Yes; and it does have minor problems, like needing parts replaced sooner than on older Subaru models, but it's nothing terrible
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
- Base technology includes a stereo with a CD player, auxiliary input, and 4-speakers.
- A touch-screen navigation system, Bluetooth connectivity, and satellite radio are options available for upgrade..
- Anti-lock brakes, stability control, airbags, and an optional backup camera included with the navigation system are safety features found on the Forester.
What Engine Options are Available?
The 2011 Subaru Forester’s standard all-wheel-drive system helps it handle better than its competitors. With the upgraded engine it goes from 0 to 60 in 6.6 seconds, which is quick for its class.
- The base engine is a 2.5L 4-cylinder with 170 horsepower.
- An upgraded 2.5L turbocharged 4-cylinder outputting 224 horsepower is found in the 5XT models.
What Colors Options are Available?
How Big is the Forester?
The 2011 Forester is average size for a compact SUV, but it sits lower than some of its competitors. Its cabin is roomy and comfortable for passengers, with good headroom. With the second row of seats up, it has 33.5 cubic feet of cargo space. When the seats are folded flat, it increases to 68.3 cubic feet. It offers a good amount of cargo space with more than enough room for luggage on a road trip, but it is not class-leading.
How Does the 2011 Subaru Forester Compare to Other SUVs?
The 2011 Subaru Forester ranks sixth in the compact SUV class based on owner reviews. A strong competitor is the Honda CR-V. It has less powerful engine options compared to the Subaru, but gets a higher overall reliability rating. Where the Subaru wins out is with its standard all-wheel-drive and a higher safety rating. The two SUVs are a close call and a test drive of each is the best comparison.
The Hyundai Tucson competes with the Forester. More roomy than the Forester and with more up-to-date exterior styling make the Tuscon worth consideration. The Subaru has better overall build quality, making it feel more stable on the road. Close in reliability, the Subaru wins out in overall owner satisfaction making it the better choice.
Final Verdict: Is the 2011 Subaru Forester a Good SUV?
Yes, the 2011 Subaru Forester is a good SUV. Its standard all-wheel-drive system is better than its competitors. The upgraded turbo engine also offers more power than you will find in other compact SUVs. Interior quality is lower than some competitors and the technology feels outdated. Overall, the Forester is a good compact SUV if you want a vehicle that is well-built, comfortable, and more capable in the snow and mud than others in its class.