2014 Subaru Forester Review: A Dependable and Affordable Midsize Crossover with Available Turbo Power

Feb 3, 2022

The 2014 Subaru Forester is a strong used purchase that’s more affordable than its rivals, valued between $12,718 and $16,513. It’s more powerful and economical, too. However, maintenance costs are well above average.

The Good

The 2014 Subaru Forester’s available turbocharged engine makes it one of the quickest in its class. Larger than its predecessors, it easily accommodates five people and their luggage. It’s also one of the safest compact sport utility vehicles available.

The Bad

The Forester’s maintenance costs are astronomically high. Rivals offer more equipment on base variants. Depreciation rates are steeper than average for the class.

The Bottom Line

Despite reports of excessive oil consumption and high maintenance costs, the 2014 Subaru Forester is a reliable and dependable daily driver. It has a capable 2.5i engine and six-speed manual option, plus a turbocharged 2.0XT variant. If you stay on top of maintenance, it’s one of the best-used options in the segment.

2014 Subaru Forester: Quick Overview

The fourth-generation Subaru Forester was an all-new model for 2014, and is one of the safest SUVs in its class, receiving an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ rating.
The 170 hp 2.5-liter and 250 hp 2.0-liter turbocharged engines are offered with all-wheel drive as standard. Fuel economy ranges from 24 to 27 mpg combined.
Annual running costs are especially high for the Forester, but reliability is strong. Excessive oil consumption and a collapsed rear suspension are the main things to look out for.
The Forester is cheaper, faster, safer, and more economical than key rivals including the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V. Those rivals are larger, better equipped, and cheaper to maintain though.

Expert Ratings

KBB

3.7/5

U.S. News

8.1/10

Cars.com

4.4/5

Positive Owner Reviews

Gail W

My thoughts on my Subaru purchase.

I love my Subaru forester. It is reliable, comfortable, and fun to drive. I plan on staying with the Subaru brand for all of my future cars. I drove this one on an extended three month trip. It was great to drive, reliable and safe. I have to say that I am happier with my Subaru than any other brand of car I have own previously.

Kathy A

Love the great gas mileage!

This is my first new car purchase and it has been fabulous. It gets great gas mileage and the car handles well on the road.

Martin f

Quality and utility in one package

Very convenient and economical with sporty feel

Chriss P

Good gas mileage All wheel drive Easy driving Nice size

Right size Awd Good gas mileage Back seat not comfortable

Ceil D

My sweet Subaru gets great gas mileage and is the number one SUV!

My Subaru is like my best friend. It handles curves perfectly. I'drives like a car. Most importantly, it has great gas mileage and has not had any problems since I bought it new six years ago. I love every little thing about my little SUV! I'drives very smooth too. I will always love my Subaru!

Madelyn A

Great family adventure vehicle!

This vehicle is the perfect family car. It is great for driving around town, road trips, and back road adventures. The AWD helps me feel safe and the trunk is large enough for hauling everything we need for weekend trips. I plan to stick with foresters forever!

Alexander J

Reliable SUV with good fuel economy and plenty of space.

The Subaru forester is a great and reliable car. Even for an SUV, it gets incredible fuel economy. It is very versatile and has a lot of carrying space in the back because the seats fold down and create a flat surface. This makes it great for camping trips and hauling large items.

Collin S

The quality and the ability of it to go off road and perform in daily driving

I love the design of the interior. It is very simple and functional to use. I love the off road handling and the sporty design.

Negative Owner Reviews

Donna B.

Afraid it will leave me stranded.

First the positive: I love the color. I am tall and appreciate the leg and headroom. Now what matters: I have grown afraid of driving it for two reasons: The oil light has come on twice. The first time it happened I was driving my sister who had just been diagnosed with cancer to a cancer center 200 miles from her home. I hated leaving her so vulnerable. I learned to carry oil with me at all times. Then, I decided to get the oil changed every 3000 miles after the light went on again. I now have almost 34,000 miles on it and they tell me I have a transmission leak . I am now venturing into the process Subaru has established with its "extended CVT warranty". I am not car savvy at all. When I have needed a new car I would consult Consumer Reports and buy one of the ones they recommended. My 2001 Toyota Echo had almost 300,000 miles on it. Currently I feel safer driving my 2006 Honda with 187, 000 miles on it then I do this Subaru. I don't trust Consumer Reports anymore and I don't trust Subaru. I have always only wanted a car that would not leave me stranded. Twice this car has scared me already and made me pull over. Now with this l don't know. I don't know how people deal with having car problems. I don't like it and I do not think we should have to tolerate it with a new car. I am just not that brave and I refuse to put my sister or anyone else driving with me at risk of being stranded somewhere.

kevin roberts

LEMON

I have had nothing but problems w/my 2014 Forester,,,,spend $5000 per year on problems.

Mel R

It's a SUV drives like a truck not a car oh we oh we

Too tall. Drives like a truck. Seats feel weird. Miss the car feel

V Bess

Piston/oil issue and ac compressor and condenser

I had problem w oil light coming on. Found out certain vin #s had what they call soft pistons. It was random vin and years. I never got a notice but I was losing oil. They did an oil consumption test and it failed. Pistons were replaced, paid for by Subaru. If you have this isssue have dealer check vin # And get it checked Also just had to have condenser replaced it was leaking. Still had issue with intermittent cool and hot air. Now found out the compressor is bad. So pissed. What’s the deal - Subaru in general don’t have too many problems. Any one else having issues. I have 70,000 miles and am meticulous in caring for vehicles I have

Jesse A.

Costly Repairs

My Forester was great until I hit the 80K mile mark and the low oil level light came on. Took the car to the dealer and it was determined that oil consumption was an issue. Subaru paid for the small engine block replacement and it took care of the oil consumption issue for about 6 months and then my oil level came on again at 128,033 miles. As of 08/25/2020, the car is back on an oil consumption check monitoring by the dealer. Around this time period, my check engine light came on and it was diagnose error code “P0700 Active” and “P2762 History” recommended replacing valve body assembly which is kind of rare, nonetheless, Subaru indicated repairs are not covered under warranty because the mileage on the car is over 100K. Cost of repairs was $1,710 parts & labor. Note: Most of my driving commute are freeway mileage Overall this is my 3rd Subaru and the Forester model cost of repairs are starting to be too disturbing. Jesse A. On 08/26/2020.

JESSE A

Costly Repairs

Lauren M

Dependable but leaves a lot to be desired.

It is very reliable, but clearly is the baseline version of the model. It could be modernized a bit. The cloth seats leave a lot to be desired. However, I really like how large it is inside. The gas mileage is very low, but I have had very few engine issues. It handles tough terrain well. It is slow to accelerate.

Lisa F

Love my subbie! Best car yet!

There are a lot of recalls but some are strictly preventative. It is comfortable with no blind spots. It is not the prettiest car but has a lot of bells and whistles. I love the automatic gate, the large sunroof and heated seats! I 100% would recommend the car.

What Problems Does the 2014 Subaru Forester Have?

Nearly 340 complaints have been submitted to the NHTSA regarding the 2014 Forester. The most common and serious issue cited is the rear suspension collapsing due to snapped coil springs. Most reports claim it happened at lower speeds or while parked. Excessive oil consumption is also among the more common complaints.

Only two recalls have been issued, and both only require simple fixes. The widest recall was issued in February of 2019 and affected 1.3 million vehicles for faulty brake light switches that prevent the brake lights from illuminating and keyless ignition vehicles from starting. The other concerned 10,137 vehicles, which had floor mats that could curl up and interfere with the pedals.

Despite some foibles, the 2014 Forester remains devoid of common, serious issues, making it one of the better years to choose from.

What are the Prices, Models, and Specs?

The 2014 Subaru Forester retailed between $21,995 and $32,995 when new, but you can expect to pay around half that now. Values range between $12,718 and $16,513. Typically, the Subaru Forester sees a depreciation rate of 40.3 percent after five years – slightly above average, but with a slow and steady decline. There are four trim levels to choose from for the 2014 model:

Base 2.5i: Very basic, with 17-inch steel wheels and black plastic cladding and mirror caps. Manual cloth seats, a basic four-speaker stereo with CD and Bluetooth, and manual air conditioning are all you’ll find inside.
2.5i Premium: Stepping up a trim level adds 17-inch alloy wheels and roof rails. A 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat and reclining rear seat are added, but cloth upholstery remains. It also adds a six-speaker stereo, automatic driver’s window, and enhanced color trip computer display. CVT-equipped models also boast a panoramic moonroof.
2.0XT Premium: The XT models add several extras over the 2.5i Premium, including 18-inch alloys and larger vented disc brakes. The X-Mode driving mode system and Hill Descent Control are also added.
2.5i Limited: Most changes occur inside on these models, with heated leather seats, a leather steering wheel with audio controls, and automatic climate controls added.
2.5i Touring and 2.0XT Touring: These models add a 6.1-inch touchscreen with GPS navigation and SiriusXM satellite radio, plus an eight-speaker Harman Kardon audio system. Dual-zone climate control also features.

2.5i

170 HP 27 MPG

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2.5i Premium

170 HP 27 MPG

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2.5i Limited

170 HP 27 MPG

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2.0XT Premium

250 HP 25 MPG

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2.5i Touring

170 HP 27 MPG

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2.0XT Touring

250 HP 25 MPG

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How Long Will the 2014 Subaru Forester Last?

Subarus have a reputation for being long-lasting vehicles, and a 2014 Forester could last up to 250,000 miles. However, staying on top of maintenance is key, and Subaru is unfortunately known for above-average maintenance costs. You’re looking at roughly $683 per year to keep one of these going, which is the only possible preventative to ensuring its longevity.

Courtney S

I have not had any problems with my forester since I have had it other than lights going out easily. The interior does stain easily with the littlest touch of something, but other than that I have not had any issues.

Josh n

It is very reliable. Only had to replace the wheel bearings on it. The biggest problem is that the bluetooth does not connect automatically and it is quite a pain.

Kyle B

It has been reliable. One issue that seems common is intermittent problems with the airbag system which sometimes does not recognize a passenger and other times recognizes a passenger when there is not one. The problem only happens periodically.

Jasmine V

The forester is a very reliable vehicle. The CVT transmission ensures that the engine is always functioning at the right RPM for the situation

Trish B

I think it is reliable, Have not had any problems with this car. It only needs regular oil changes and maintenance.

Tammy C

It has been very reliable. It is great in the snow as well. I haven't had any major issues with the car yet.

Emily N

I think the Subaru is very reliable , I have only had it for a few years haven't had to do much work. I love this car

Melissa N

Very reliable. We haven't had any issues. Just regular maintenance. Runs great, always works. We haven't had any major issues.

What Technology & Safety Features are Included?

Most models are a bit light on technology, but AM/FM/MP3 radio, CD, and Bluetooth are standard range-wide. All have a multifunction trip computer display atop the dashboard. All but the base model feature a backup camera.
The 6.1-inch touchscreen with navigation – standard on the Touring – can be added to 2.5i Premium and Limited models. Keyless entry and remote start are optional on Touring models.
Basic safety tech including stability control, ABS, and rollover sensor are standard. Models from the 2.0XT Premium up also add Hill Descent Control. Subaru’s EyeSight active safety suite with adaptive cruise control is optional on Touring variants.

What Engine Options are Available?

As with other Foresters before it, both naturally aspirated and turbocharged four-cylinder boxer engines are offered, both with all-wheel drive. The latter can get it from 0-60 mph in just 6.3 seconds, making it feel quite peppy. The only automatic offered was a CVT, but it has been praised for feeling more direct and responsive than most, especially with the turbo engine.

2.5i models feature a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated flat-four producing 170 hp at 5,800 rpm and 174 lb.-ft. at 4,100 rpm. A six-speed manual was standard, but the CVT was optionally available. With the former, it only manages 22/28/24 mpg city/highway/combined, but the CVT achieves 24/31/27 mpg.
2.0XT versions offer a potent 2.0-liter turbocharged flat-four with 250 hp at 5,600 rpm and 258 lb.-ft. from 2,000-4,800 rpm. The CVT is standard and features both six-speed and eight-speed manual modes. Fuel economy sits in the middle at 23/27/25 mpg city/highway/combined.

What Color Options are Available?

How Big is the 2014 Subaru Forester?

This fourth-generation model grew in size over its predecessors but is still smaller for the class. The larger dimensions make for a larger cargo space, however, offering up to 34.4 cu. ft. with the rear seats up, and 74.7 cu. ft. with them down. Models with a moonroof eat into this, reducing it to 31.5 and 68.5 cu. ft. respectively. Regardless, you’ll fit enough luggage for five people under the cargo cover. Perfect, given it comfortably seats five with plenty of headroom and legroom.

How Does the 2014 Subaru Forester Compare to Other Compact Crossover SUVs?

The 2014 Toyota RAV4 is one of the Forester’s most popular rivals, and is the first-ranked crossover based on Vehicle History‘s owner reviews, ahead of the Forester in fifth. The RAV4 is not only very reliable, but larger, cheaper to maintain, and better equipped in base form than the Forester.

The RAV4’s sole powertrain option sees it left in the dust by the quicker Forester, though, particularly the turbocharged model. Its fuel economy is also bested by 2.5i CVT-equipped Foresters. It’s the exact same story for the 2014 Honda CR-V as well, which is ranked second overall based on owner reviews.

Smaller and more powerful, but still comparably economical and reliable, the Forester is the more affordable used purchase as well.

Ranks #6 Compact SUV by Owners

2014 Land Rover LR4

4.73

2014 MINI Countryman

4.67

Tie

2014 Subaru Forester

4.53

Final Verdict: Is the 2014 Subaru Forester a Good Car?

Yes, the 2014 Subaru Forester is a good car, as our analysis of government sources, automotive websites, and reviews, and 451 real owner reviews clearly indicate. For those after a simple, reliable, and dependable daily driver, the 2.5i models have you covered. Those who love driving will also be enthused by its six-speed manual option, or the turbocharged 2.0XT variants.

The main things to watch out for are simply excessive engine oil consumption and its astronomical maintenance costs. If you’re prepared to stay on top of that maintenance, though, it’ll easily last you well in the long run. It’s one of the best-used options in the segment.

Photos: Subaru

Owner Reviews

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Zia C on June 7, 2021

Subaru forester! Go get one!

I have no issues. It drives smoothly and is comfortable. It does great in the cold weather and the heated seats are a plus. It comes with an option to add automatic start which is great for really cold days. The car warms up quickly. I have never needed anything outside of regular maintenance.

Alex M on June 6, 2021

Very cool and fast blue car.

I love the way it drives, it is very smooth. The speakers are great. The seats are comfy but I wish they were heated. I wish I had it came with a backup camera and there’s a blind spot between the windshield and the driver/passenger windows. The gas mileage is great.

Andrew W on June 5, 2021

Subaru forester runs great review.

The vehicle runs great. The pickup is great for such a fuel sipper. No major mechanical issues just normal wear and tear so far. There is enough storage space and legroom and headroom for me, a 6ft+ tall larger man. The motor sound is a bit vroomy and loud at times but other than that the ride is smooth and quiet.

Sam K on June 1, 2021

Subaru forester is great for people who want a reliable vehicle!

My Subaru forester is an amazing car. It has great visibility throughout, it handles really well in the snow which is important since I live in the Midwest, and has great storage capabilities. The seats fold all the way down so it is great for hauling longer items for moving, as an example. It has a good sound system, and lots of cupholders!

Katherine M on May 10, 2021

5 stars for the 2014 forester.

I love my forester. It is super spacious but still fits in compact spots. Gas mileage was great when I first got it, but has gotten worse as the years have gone on. I like camping and taking it off road is not a problem with x-mode. Turn radius is awesome and it's super smooth for long road trips. I feel very safe in it because of Subaru's reputation. I could not recommend this car enough!

Brenda B on May 7, 2021

Happy with my Subaru forester.

I love my Subaru forester. I love that it is all-wheel drive and does well in the snow. The fold down seats are great for my Costco and walmart runs. The forester gets very good gas mileage and is quite comfortable for long drives. I really enjoy listening to CD's, the radio, or Sirius XM. The GPS system is very handy to have. I recommend Subaru's to everyone looking for a vehicle.

Irene S on May 2, 2021

Love my forester. Love the turbo feature.

I love my forester. We’ve had it for 6 years. It is a turbo and has lots of get up and go. It is difficult driving or driving in other vehicles that “putt” down the road. We have kept up the regular maintenance on the vehicle and have had no issues. I would buy this again in a heartbeat.

kevin roberts on April 19, 2021

LEMON

I have had nothing but problems w/my 2014 Forester,,,,spend $5000 per year on problems.

Addy B on April 17, 2021

Great adventure car-- good for off road, long road trips, and pets!

I love the great highway mileage that the car has and is fairly inexpensive to fill up the tank. The steering and brakes are more sensitive than cars I have had in the past, and the pick up is good when accelerating onto the highway. A big thing for me is the turning radius-- it is very easy to maneuver this car into tight spaces or tight turns. The company itself is dog-friendly which is something I take into consideration as I take my dogs with me everywhere. The premium package came with a rubber mat for the back of the car which is perfect for hauling dogs and any type of grocery or errand and keeps the car clean.

Kyndell T on April 17, 2021

Love have a spacious trunk and being able to go off roading with no problems!

I just bought my car a few months ago and so far I love it. It is super roomy and has plenty of room for my dog. Wish it came with upgrades but I can add those later. Love that it is completely hands free and I can control everything from my steering wheel.

Emma S on April 15, 2021

Subaru forester 2014 is it worth it.

I learned how to drive on my car and ever since I have absolutely loved my car. It has had some problem with the ignition but it wasn't anything that we could not get fixed. There has been some other problems with the alignment but again nothing that you can't get fixed.

Will M on April 13, 2021

High performance, low waste.

My first Subaru was a 1996 outback and have loved them ever since. Dependable, economical, and will go anywhere a light duty truck can and some they cannot. Also, Subaru has not contributed to landfill waste in over a decade and are helping other auto manufacturers do the same!

Natalya T on April 3, 2021

Spacious with a lot of cool features, but loud on the interstate.

One thing I do not like about it is that it is very 'loud' when you are driving on highway or interstates, as if the car is not sealed properly. All of my friends cars are much quieter when driving fast/on big roads. Otherwise I am a fan on the interior and it is features, I like how the outside looks, I think it is very spacious.

Amanda E on April 3, 2021

Great, until it has problems.

The vehicle is excellent in the snow and other weather conditions like rain and sleet. It handles very well overall. However, recently it has started to have problems with oil and getting loud. Come to find out, it is under a lawsuit for excess oil consumption and I may need repairs. I have to drive it to so many miles before they will know and in the meantime, I have a loud vehicle that does not perform like it used to.

Nicole D on April 3, 2021

Safe and reliable. Buy Subaru.

Very reliable. Only problems are ones that are expected over 100k miles, new clutch, timing belt, tires, brakes. It has an exceptional safety package too which makes me feel better having the kids in the car. My only complaint is the problems I have had with the ac. I have had to pay twice to repair it.

Thomas M on April 2, 2021

The most important thing is how well Subaru's drive and how dependable it is.

Overall I really love my Subaru. The all wheel drive and the durability are really important!

James H on April 1, 2021

Very good vehicle, rides well, handles well.

No problems at all Have had to replace battery and tires and brakes, normal at this time and mileage. The forester maintains fantastic fuel mileage. Came with 2 sets of floor mats for summer and winter. The headlights come on and stay on whenever the key is in the ignition

Louise V on March 29, 2021

Combination of convenience and safety, the impressive of Subaru forester.

SUV and great for small family, a great convenient car, fuel efficiency, durable exterior. Come with roof rail, comfortable interior, versatility and functional style. Long lasting quality is one of the reason my husband bought Subaru forester. Additional to the sliding panoramic moonroof, make us feel the breeze, brighten the day and check out the star.

John N on March 27, 2021

Great smooth drive would very much recommend this safe reliable car.

Good comfortable drive nice moon roof and great gas mileage, great family car safe and great for insurance, no complaints about any of the car easy to keep clean. It drives smooth and does not have any type of hiccup and I will love to purchase another when the time is right for a new car.

Nathan O on March 23, 2021

The best mats if you have a dog.

The Subaru forester is a great SUV. I really enjoy the dose wheel drive, especially since I live in a cold, snowy climate in the winters. It has so far been a really reliable car without any major problems as of yet. The only problems I have had so far are with the oil and air conditioning. In regards to the oil, I have noticed that I need to change and refill my oil more often than necessary; however, it is not a huge issue. As for the air conditioning, it began to not work earlier this year on the hottest day of the year, of course! It would begin to work, but then get warmer and warmer as the drive progressed. Luckily I was able to purchase and change the part I needed for much less than it would have been to take it to the shop. The comfort of the vehicle is very nice and I recently purchased new tires that make the car drive very smoothly. I have a sunroof and leather seats which were a must for me. Probably the biggest selling point for me was the Subaru version of weathertech mats as I have a large, hairy dog who sheds so much. These mats make it much easier to clean my car after he is in it for a ride.

PHILIP B on March 22, 2021

It is a versatile vehicle with good passenger space or cargo capacity. Braking and handling have been excellent and fuel economy quite good especially in highway driving. The only thing I have found that I don't like is the support for the rear cargo curtain which must be removed when loading high cargo items.

My Forrester, which is a crossover, provides good gas mileage and a comfortable ride. It seats 5 adults comfortably and has a cargo area adequate for my needs. With the rear seats down it handles a good size cargo load. It handles very well and maintenance costs are good.

Nat O on March 20, 2021

Subaru forester for the win.

I really enjoy my vehicle because it does the job and I do not have to worry about anything. I primarily bought it because I wanted a SUV with four wheel drive and mats that wouldn't stick with dog hair. The Subaru weathertech mats are awesome and always keep my car looking more clean that it had before. I did have to change the filter in the ac, but it is understandable since the car has nearly 100,000 miles on it. The car is super comfortable and I enjoy driving it. I am not a huge fan of the radio because it is hard to alter and switch between nearby stations easily. That is probably the biggest s downfall.

Lauren M on March 18, 2021

Dependable but leaves a lot to be desired.

Deb T on March 18, 2021

Safety number one! Great mpg! Safe in case being t boned.

Difficult to see speedometer in daytime nothing else. Wish it came with blind spot warning as standard and lane detection. Wish it have a little more storage in center of seats. Needs some tighter space by seat as everything falls thru of side of the seat.

lucy H on March 18, 2021

It's very reliable and safe.

I like that my Subaru has plenty of room for my dogs. I like the way it handles and that it is very safe. I have no complaints about it.

Josh N on March 15, 2021

Great car and safe car worth it.

Just wish the Bluetooth connection was better, but other than that it drives nice is a very smooth ride. I definitely recommend this car the safety aspects are really nice it made insurance easier and cheaper than any other car we looked at. The gas mileage is not something to sneeze about it is been a family car for 4 years now.

Cat L on March 14, 2021

Great first car for any driver.

A great first car, the four wheel drive is very important to me since I live in a place with bad winters. There is also a lot of room to move items in the back. And the audio system is great with Bluetooth, if you do not want Bluetooth aux as well as USB are available. All in all a great car and would definitely buy another Subaru.

DIANE R on March 14, 2021

More comfortable than some SUVs

This car is more comfortable than SUVs that have lower seats however the seat is still not high enough at its highest setting for me. I traded in a full sized SUV for this car so it seems cramped to me. The car's shifting requires some getting used to and can be rough in traffic when traveling at slow speeds.

CJ P on March 14, 2021

Reliable and quirky: take care of her and she'll be fine.

One minor problem where I had to get suspension fixed but warranty covered it. It's a very small engine with a large turbo so there is some lag. The transmission is a little inconsistent as well. There is a lot of little variances in acceleration if you sit around the 2k rpm mark. But it has never broken down, gets decent mpg and is quick on the highway.

Jamie H on March 11, 2021

Overall a great car, but has some factory faults.

Have to refill oil in between services. Multiple recalls. It is a comfortable car, just pricey maintenance. Leather seats tear pretty easily. Cool feature of remembering your birthday: anniversary. Has a pretty good gas mileage, just wish gas was cheaper.

Megan M on March 8, 2021

Subaru Forester safe, durable family vehicle.

Absolutely love my 2014 Subaru Forester. Runs like a dream. We have owned it for 2 years now and it has needed barely any maintenance besides regular maintenance ( oil change, washer fluid refill, etc.. ) Safe and drives very smooth. Great family car. Very spacious comfortable drivers seat. Would love it to be slightly larger in the back / trunk as we are adding another baby to our family soon, but it is a fantastic car!

David H on March 7, 2021

It drives really well for a car its size in terms of pickup and handling

I like that it is compact but higher off the ground that a normal car so it allows me to see better. Also it has good space for storage

Emily S on March 6, 2021

Love the features of my car, everything about it!

To get into the vehicle, you do not need to bend down and slip into the car, it is at the average height. The seats are not leather, easy to clean with spills and warm up fast with the heated seats on. Large cup holders to hold larger cups and/or wrappers, food, etc. I have not had any issues regarding tires, interior breaking, breaks, other car maintenance things. I really do not have any complaints!

Bonnie S on March 4, 2021

It's good in difficult driving conditions.

Reliable in poor weather, snow. This makes me feel more secure driving alone. Runs well at high mileage. I would like a sportier car.

John F on March 2, 2021

Great handling great quality.

No problems. Excellent quality love driving. Handles snow with no problem AWD abs traction control reliable. Handles well great gas mileage. Climbs hills with no problem. Great for going off road. Would recommend to family and friends. I give it 5 stars.

Kate G on March 1, 2021

Great car for the winter weather.

Perfect size. Drives well in the brutal winter weather. Holds up well. Never had any recalls. The only thing that could be improved for this year car is the stereo is relatively outdated even for the year 2014. I didn't anticipate actually liking this car when I first saw it but I fell in love.

Luke Sillies on March 1, 2021

Decent Bang for Buck

We love Subaru and have liked our Forester but we are regretting getting the lower tier model. It is a noisy car from both windows and beneath and the interior feels cheap. When I drive my brothers higher model Outback it feels like the car I wish we bought. However, it’s been reliable, safe, and didn’t set us back too much, depends what you want out of a car.

Spencer B on February 27, 2021

Fun car to drive — safe and reliable.

Fun to drive. Good handling. Interior is spacious and nice. Gas mileage is not the best, but it is not terrible. The navigation/display screen is mediocre. Great small family car. Safe and reliable but also sporty and fun to drive. I would purchase this car again.

Noemi A on February 27, 2021

Great value for luxury, comfort and premium vehicle.

Subaru is the best ever, it has great mileage per gallon and it is very comfortable inside, it has very luxury features like, GPS, leather seats and sunroof, for an SUV it gives you the power you need for the snow and it is very easy to drive and park especially with the camera and the size of the vehicle and fits three car-seats so it's perfect for a family of 5 and still have a lot of room for the luggage in the trunk and in the roof grill. Just love my car.

Mary T on February 24, 2021

Great, reliable all around SUV.

My car is a basic model without a lot of bells and whistles though it does have a backup camera which I love. It is got a tight turning radius, four wheel drive and is very reliable. It has a great field of vision and no blind spots when driving. It is turned out to be a great car.

Michael M on February 24, 2021

It has held up well over all of the trips we have been on. We go camping a lot and it handles great on rough terrain.

I like the safety features and the large windows to see on all sides. I have had to change my tires multiple times though in a short amount of time which has not been the case with other vehicles in the past.

Dawn B on February 23, 2021

Safe in my Subaru forester.

I feel safe in my Subaru forester. A deer hit my vehicle and did a lot of damage, but my dog and I are alive to tell the tale. It performs well in snow and ice. It is comfortable, even on long road trips. Speaking of trips, there is plenty of space for people and dog gear. The only thing I do not love is the loud road noise I can hear. I have to turn up the music or audio book louder than I would like. I think newer models may not have this issue.

Marie W on February 22, 2021

It is wonderful all around.

Love the safety feature and traction in rain and snow. Dislike the Bluetooth technology. Doesn't sync more than one phone at a time.

Cynthia D on February 21, 2021

Built to survive an Alaskan winter.

The Subaru forester has been a great car for where I live in Alaska. If you look around town it seems that at least half the people in town have a forester. They are great for here because they are sturdy cars with low repair record and most importantly they have 4wd to help us survive an Alaskan winter with lots of snow.

Diane S on February 19, 2021

Very reliable, great on winter roads, comfortable and roomy, good gas mileage.

I love my Subaru! It is comfortable, especially on long drives. It handles very well in the winter on the snowy, icy roads of VT. It always starts in the cold. The only negative thing is I am constantly replacing brake pads, rotors, calipers, etc. Subaru is known for having lousy brakes and, no matter how many times they claim to have fixed this problem, I still have friends with newer models with the same issues. As far as features are concerned, I have a bare bones model, so I have only the basics. But, even with the brake issues, my next car will still be a Subaru.

Craig A on February 13, 2021

Costly repairs for stuff that shouldn't go wrong. Subaru parts are c**p

Handles well in snow, but it's too heavy. It accelerates well and rides nice, but it requires constant, expensive maintenance despite low miles

Brittney C on February 10, 2021

2014 Subaru forester perfect for outdoor adventures.

I love my Subaru forester! Great on gas mileage and great in all types of weather with the AWD. Huge plus is the heated seats, great feature in the cold months. Has a large sunroof that is perfect for sunny summer days. Bluetooth options for calling and music as well as options for hd radio.

Ryo K on February 9, 2021

The blakes pad in our car are thinning and I am not sure that that's normal for mountainy place.

I like that subaru forester is good for a hilly place, which we live in, and I like the fact we have never had any issues since we bought it three years ago. I feel this one is lighter than old one we had before and that concerns safety level, but other than that, I'm pretty satisfied with this car.

April G on February 7, 2021

It is moonroof is amazing!

My forester is spacious and reliable. My initial investment into a forester was to have a car big enough to fit many people and one that would last a long time. Subaru safety rating was appealing and the new style of the forester gave it a fresher look. After test driving it, I knew it was the one. I have fit many things in my hatchback and even added a hitch. It is great for road trips. The moonroof is phenomenal whether it is breeze or views.

Justin L on February 7, 2021

Safe and cozy through the streets.

Very comfortable, feels safe to drive, the heat works good and visibility in the mirrors is superb, when I have kids myself I am certainly going to get them a Subaru, what other car could you possibly want. Dents easily however but if you use the handy backup camera you'll be fine! 10/10 would recommend any model of this vehicle based on its safety and comfort.

Patrick Jackson

Patrick Jackson is a freelance journalist currently based in Adelaide, Australia, with over five years of experience in print, radio, and online media. Having road-tested and reviewed over 230 new and classic cars in that time, he has extensive first-hand experience with the most popular vehicles on the market along with desirable modern classics, particularly from the 1990s and early 2000s. Patrick has written for Drive Tribe Force GT, and Which Car, among other titles. He also runs his own website, Drive Section. He is a graduate of the University of South Australia with a degree in Communication and Media.