2015 Subaru Forester Review: A Class-Leading Compact SUV Focused on Safety and Comfort

Oct 8, 2021

The 2015 Subaru Forester can be found used from $13,465 to $20,123, showing that it holds its value better than a lot of the competition. The Forester’s standard all-wheel-drive system, ample cargo room, and advanced safety technology make it a fantastic compact SUV.

The Good

An all-wheel-drive system is offered standard on the 2015 Forester. It is a very roomy, compact SUV with good passenger and cargo space. The optional EyeSight safety system is very advanced.

The Bad

The Forester feels a bit underpowered with the 2.5L engine. The cloth interior in the base models is not as nice as competitors. The infotainment system feels dated and slow.

The Bottom Line

The Subaru Forester is a class-leading compact SUV. This is a vehicle designed to go anywhere you need to go. If you are looking for something to haul people and gear, this is a great choice.

2015 Subaru Forester: Quick Overview

The 2015 Subaru Forester scores above average regarding overall reliability. They can be found on the used market from $13,465 to $20,123. The best model is the 2.0XT Touring.
There are two different engine options. Up first is a 2.5L 4-cylinder, and the second is a 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder. The turbocharged engine offers more power and better performance.
A 2015 Forester comes in second place for fuel-efficiency in the compact SUV market. Owners love the all-wheel-drive system and say that the 2.0L version is more fun to drive.
There are six models of the Subaru Forester. The Forester receives a 5-star crash test rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), and earned a Top Safety Pick+ award from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
The 2015 Subaru Forester is a class-leading compact SUV. The standard all-wheel-drive system helps it stand out from the rest of the pack. The Forester also offers better cargo room than the competition helping it be a more versatile choice.

Positive Owner Reviews

Kim C

Yeah for Subaru. . . Love the ride. . . Reliability. . . Safety.

Best car I have ever had. Really responsive and fun to drive. Safety features are great. Comfortable for 5. I wish it had a little more cargo room but I would definitely buy another. Very reliable. I wish all of my family had Subaru’s so I could feel they were in safe vehicles.

Ronald S

Trouble free dependable driving

I like the safety rating, We have owned it going on four years and have had no issues with performance. It has been free of any problems. I can find nothing wrong with it .

Shawn K

It has a very high safety rating.

I love my Subaru for all the safety features and crash test ratings. It also has a great field of view and the all wheel drive is a plus. I used to have a Honda CRV which had a lot more "cubbie storage" and the A/C worked better.

Jen T

No ac or heat vents to back seat makes it less comfortable for passengers

Like handling in winter. Wish it had heat/ac vents in back. And android auto would be nice too. I like the gas mileage

Stacy S

It handles well in severe weather conditions. Rain and snow is not a problem

I love the way it handles in the snow. It gets really good gas mileage. It has really high rates safety features

Helen C

The seat warmers are a wonderful bonus on cold days or when your back is aching!

The vehicle handles wonderfully and it's safe! I know that I'm safe in this vehicle. It's my second of the same make/model/year. The first was totaled when an oncoming vehicle ran a red light and hit it. A bruised shin was the only physical damage to the driver of my vehicle...from the leg airbag, The front end was destroyed in the accident, the cabin was pristine save for the airbag deployment. This vehicle is SOLID and safe!! After the accident claim check arrived, we purchased a replacement of the same kind.

Susan L

It gets better gas mileage than what is on the sticker.

I like that it is small enough to drive around town, but can also carry a lot of cargo and go off-road. I really like the fact that it gets great gas mileage. I am not totally sold on the Eyesight system. It goes off a lot when it shouldn't.

Ma G

The forester is trustworthy.

I love my car. It is an SUV but drives like a car. Subaru cars have the best safety records and I trust them to drive around my baby in. The cloth seats are very comfortable and the forester has amazing visibility out the windows which you never find on SUVs anymore.

Negative Owner Reviews

Jason V

Abysmal Quality

Multiple engine replacements due to excessive oil consumption, two recalls, constant rattles and squeaks, defective battery, AC system failed, and in the shop yet again. Car is barely past 60k miles and almost ready for the junkyard. My last Subaru.

Arsen

123

I bought a used 2015 Forester 2.5i from a Scarborough Subaru Dealer (Canada). It turned out to be many challenges. I spent about $ 2200, but could not eliminate the vibration. Dealership categorically refuses to acknowledge and correct the problem. Six independent licensed mechanics and two racers (Impreza) have confirmed significant vibration on the Highways. Who else can tell me what to do, and who can I ask for help. Thanks. Arsen Papanyan. (Personal information removed for privacy)

Arsen

123

Jeff M

Too many repairs over first 5 years/55k miles

I loved this vehicle at first. Handles exceptionally well in snow and wet conditions. Reasonably quiet at all speeds. Started to notice rust on the underbody after about a year. After 40k miles we have taken to the dealer 4 times for issues. One was a faulty alternator, two for standard recalls, and the third because the rear strut literally fractured into pieces and left the car incapacitated while parked in the garage. Had to have it towed for the last one but it was covered under a newly released recall. In addition, new tires were down to 5/32 after 9K miles. Car is now 5 years old with 55K miles. Had to replace the battery, fan controls are malfunctioning, needed another set of new brakes, and had to replace the rear passenger side wheel bearing. Done with the vehicle and took the loss on trading it in which will likely save me a few thousand in the long run. Terribly dissatisfied with the quality of parts and reliability. I just didn’t have the confidence that my wife and kids wouldn’t be stranded on a road trip.

Travis

2015 Subaru Forester - Nothing but problems

My wife and I purchased a used, 2015 Subaru Forester, under 30,000 miles in 2017 (Clean title, Car Fax, etc.). Since then, we've had to replace the front right axle twice, the front left axle once, among many other issues. This car has had nothing but issues. The horn stopped working and Subaru wants $500 to replace it. The A/C has now stopped working (as summer approaches here in Texas). The other issues are too numerous to count. I was always a believer in the reliability and longevity of Subarus. I would avoid purchasing any Forester from the 2012-2016 year range, and perhaps, avoid purchasing a Subaru altogether. After reading forums, it is clear that these cars have serious issues (from the moment they rolled off the line) and Subaru has done little to remedy the problems.

Lerma

Audio issue

I see a lot of happy owners of 2015 Forester . I love mine too, but am I the only one who is having problem with the audio? It keeps on unpairing my phone, therefore I cannot take or answer calls, and listen to my music. I brought it to the dealership several times; I was told my car's audio is an old model, cannot cope up with the new phone's upgrade, therefore cannot sync. The dealer said they cannot do anything about it, cannot change or upgrade the audio or sound system.

Wendy F

It's very pricey for what you get. It rides nice and is high in safety

Too plain, no bells and whistles. No dual heat/air, no trunk light.

tina h

It has good safety ratings Gets good gas mileage easy to drive

Too small for my needs Get good gas mileage my Bluetooth is glitchy

Is the 2015 Subaru Forester a Good Used SUV?

The 2015 Subaru Forester is a good used compact SUV to go with. It ranks at the top of the extremely competitive compact SUV market based on owner reviews. These are known to be reliable and comfortable to drive. One of the key selling points of the Forester is that it has an all-wheel-drive system offered as standard. This is a great feature if you live in an area that gets snow, or you know you will be driving down dirt roads.

How Much is a Used 2015 Subaru Forester?

In 2021 you can find a used 2015 Subaru Forester starting at $13,465 and that price goes all the way up to $20,123. The value of the vehicle depends on its condition, mileage, and model. When the Forester was new it had a retail price of $22,195 to just over $33,000.

What Problems Does the 2015 Subaru Forester Have?

The 2015 Subaru Forester problems and recalls include engine issues and faulty brake lights. One of the most common problems reported with the 2015 Subaru Forester involves the catalytic converter failing. This is a common problem that happens around 115,000 miles in these vehicles and it will cause the check engine light to turn on. If your catalytic converter wears out, it may also cause damage to the O2 sensors since the exhaust gases are not properly filtered.

Subaru has also issued a technical service bulletin for the 2015 Forester involving carbon deposits on the fuel injectors. These are known to get clogged which can reduce the flow of gasoline and cause the engine to run poorly. Subaru has updated their guidance on how to properly clean the system to improve fuel flow.

What are the 2015 Subaru Forester Models?

The base 2015 Subaru Forester is the 2.5i. This has a 6-speed manual transmission standard with an optional CVT. It also includes 17 inch steel wheels; Bluetooth, a CD Player, USB and iPod connectivity, and a backup camera.
The upgraded 2.5i Premium model adds 17 inch alloy wheels, an improved stereo system, an optional 6.1 inch touchscreen navigation system, and an optional driver assist technology package.
Above the 2.5i Premium model is the 2.5i Limited. This comes standard with the CVT, a power liftgate, automatic climate control, and leather seating.
The 2.5i Touring features 18-inch alloy wheels, Xenon headlights, a Harmon Kardon sound system, and power folding rear seatbacks.
Both the Premium and Touring models are also available with a 2.0XT turbo engine. It offers more power than the base 2.5L.

2.5i

170 HP 27 MPG

View Details

2.5i Premium

170 HP 25 MPG

View Details

2.5i Limited

170 HP 27 MPG

View Details

2.0XT Premium

250 HP 25 MPG

View Details

2.5i Touring

170 HP 27 MPG

View Details

2.0XT Touring

250 HP 25 MPG

View Details

How Long Will the 2015 Subaru Forester Last?

The 2015 Subaru Forester should be able to last over 200,000 miles. We can determine this based on information from owners, and previous generations of the Forester. According to Repair Pal, it should cost about $575 per year to maintain a Forester.

What Technology Does the 2015 Subaru Forester Have?

The base Subaru Forester offers a CD Player with Bluetooth, USB, and a rear view camera.
The upgraded technology package gives you a 6.1 inch touchscreen with GPS and voice control.
The optional safety technology package includes EyeSight. EyeSight has adaptive cruise control, pre-collision automatic braking, and a lane departure warning system.

Does the 2015 Subaru Forester Have Good Gas Mileage?

For a compact SUV, the 2015 Subaru Forester has excellent fuel economy. This vehicle ranks in second place for its class. You can get up to 24 miles per gallon in the city and 32 on the highway.

What Engine Options Does The 2015 Subaru Forester Have?

The 2015 Subaru Forester has decent performance for a compact SUV. With the upgraded engine and the all-wheel-drive system you should be able to do the sprint from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 6.3 seconds. This is relatively quick for a vehicle in the Forester’s class.

The base engine in the 2015 Subaru Forester is a 2.5L 4-cylinder engine that makes 170 horsepower.
There is an upgraded turbocharged 2.0L 4-cylinder engine that has 250 horsepower.

What Colors Does the 2015 Subaru Forester Come In?

How Safe is the 2015 Subaru Forester?

Subaru was focused on safety when they built the 2015 Forester. The Forester received a 5-star crash test rating from the NHTSA. This includes a 5-star overall side impact rating, and 4-star frontal crash and rollover ratings.

For the 2015 model year, the IIHS awarded the Forester their Top Safety Pick+ rating. This is the highest award that the IIHS offers. The vehicle scored “good” in all tests aside from the “small overlap front: passenger side” where it scored “marginal”. Where the Forester stands out is with its “superior” rated crash prevention system. This is a very advanced crash prevention system for vehicles from 2015.

How Big is the 2015 Subaru Forester?

The 2015 Forester is one of the most spacious compact SUVs on the market. The Forester is 181 inches long, 71 inches wide, and 68 inches tall. It offers up to 68.5 cubic feet of cargo room with the 2.0L engine, and 74.7 cubic feet with the 2.5L engine. This is class-leading and will allow you to carry more supplies. Owners also report the cabin feels spacious and airy inside compared to the competition.

How Does the 2015 Subaru Forester Compare to Other Compact SUVs?

For the 2015 model year, the Subaru Forester ties for first place in the compact SUV market based on owner reviews. One of the strongest competitors for the Forester is the Honda CR-V. The CR-V has a more powerful engine, and owners report that the driving position is more comfortable. Aside from that, though, the Forester wins out with its all-wheel-drive system, better ground clearance, larger cargo area, and better technology.

Another competitor for the Forester is the Mazda CX-5. The Mazda feels more nimble to drive and handles better than the Subaru. The CX-5 also has slightly better fuel economy than the Forester. After that it is clear that the Forester still offers the better overall package. Making it one of the best compact SUVs you can find.

Ranks #1 Compact SUV by Owners

Tie

2015 MINI Countryman

4.6

Tie

2015 Subaru Forester

4.6

2015 Honda CR-V

4.58

Final Verdict: Do We Recommend the 2015 Subaru Forester?

Yes, it is very easy to recommend the 2015 Subaru Forester. This is a vehicle that has a lot of positives, including excellent safety technology and an all-wheel-drive system. The Forester also offers good reliability which helps it climb to the top of the pack. The downsides are that the Subaru is not as sporty as some of the competition. Owners also report that the base cloth interior is not as nice as some of the competitors.

Owner Reviews

Write a Review

Miami Mike on September 8, 2023

Adequate for what it is.

2015 Forester 2.5 engine. The car is an adequate grocery getter, gets good gas mileage, excellent visibility. Car seems a bit "fragile" since in 80K miles we have replaced front lower control arms, rear wheel bearings (twice), rear sway bar links next. Maintenance is generally easy (I do all my own work), spark plug access stinks, fortunately, they only need replacement after 80K miles. I don't find the driver's seat especially comfortable, after about an hour I need a break. The sound system is horrendous - feeble, tinny, FM/HD radio sounds like you are listening on a cell phone. Speaker replacement is coming soon. (I don't expect concert hall quality sound in a car, but this one is exceptionally poor). A/C went out, repaired properly but really not up to summers in central Florida (let alone Miami). Been through three batteries, they fail without notice and have been the subject of a class action suit. Terms of the suit are you have to notify the dealer ten days before the failure, which is nonsense, the batteries give zero indication that they are about to quit. Dealer service is expensive (this isn't limited to Subaru) and there is a lot of misinformation about what they claim is the absolute necessity of having four completely identical tires on the car - if your tires are 1/4 worn and one picks up a nail, they want to change all four tires claiming the car is unsafe if you don't. That's nonsense - it might be true if you had a shopping cart wheel on one side and a 747 tire on the other, but in the real world there is no problem. (Ever see a tractor, big wheels in the back, little wheels in the front, and those work harder than ANY Subaru.) As I say, the car is adequate for what it is intended as, and most of my comments are pretty nit-picky. We'd buy another one if we needed to.

John G on October 11, 2021

2015 Subaru forester: great value!

I would definitely recommend the 2015 Subaru forester if you are looking for a reliable and affordable vehicle. We've owned the car for 5 years now and have had no problems other than one product recall for a small spring in the rear of the vehicle. The gas pedal is very responsive and accelerates quickly. The brakes are excellent. There are lots of windows to see very well in all directions, which is helpful for highway driving. The driver's seat is more elevated than say, a sedan, so you are somewhat higher up. The computer tells gas mileage, temperature, has Bluetooth capability, and USB/CD capability. The only negative thing about the vehicle in my opinion is the drive is slightly bumpy (like a 'buckboard' almost) and the seats are not the most comfortable for longer drives. It gets good gas mileage (about 28 mpg for us) and is very affordable for what you get.

Travis on October 11, 2021

2015 Subaru Forester - Nothing but problems

Jami M on October 8, 2021

2015 Subaru Forester XT Touring-Best, most fun car I've ever owned!

Subaru has always been my preferred car brand because of their reliability, form and function. The Forester XT is an exceptionally fun car to drive and living in the Northeast, a necessary one. It's capable and safe with AWD which has prevented me from needing to own two sets of tires. It's spacious and rugged yet feels like I'm driving a luxury vehicle. The massive sunroof is great during the summer. Because my model is turbo, it does take Premium gas so that can get a little expensive with a vehicle this size but I do get 24 miles to the gallon on average. I don't believe Subaru is making the Forester in the XT engine option any longer but if you can get a used model or if they bring it back, I highly recommend it.

Ashley A on October 8, 2021

2015 Subaru Forester-almost perfect.

I love my Subaru Forester and have been extremely happy with its performance thus far. The only issue I have had has been regarding electrical. The sensor for the system dynamics (downhill assist, brake assist, and traction control) kept coming on and occasionally I wouldn't be able to get the car out of park and into drive. The diagnosis was a faulty sensor but the even after the fix the issue returned shortly after. Again a sensor issue, nothing was actually wrong with the car. I will say though that even with this issue I find this car to be by and far the most reliable and safe feeling car I have purchased and I am definitely happy with my choice.

Erin L on October 12, 2021

The 2015 Subaru Forester is a fantastic vehicle that is above most other cars.

This car is incredibly reliable and performs very well in all weathers, environments, and degrees of stress (i.e. Braking, accelerating, etc.). The radio, while not as nice as the 2013 Outback radio, is quite nice and has numerous ways to adjust the way you listen to create a pleasant experience for you while you drive. The cabin interior can be a little bit noisy while you drive on a highway, but it is barely noticeable when the radio is going even at a low volume. The seats are comfortable and adjustable to several position combinations to best fit your needs and desired comfort level.

Kristen F on October 10, 2021

The forester is an excellent family car.

My 2015 Subaru forester runs smooth, has no issues, and works great for my family. It has excellent trunk space with added storage when the seats are folded down. The front seats are heated and very comfortable. All controls are simple and easy to operate. The information screens give quality, up-to-date information about the performance and status of the car. The eye-site feature is very nice when using cruise control. The lane-assistance is a bit sensitive, picking up spilled paint in the lane and telling me I have made a lane departure.

Kelly C on October 9, 2021

Subaru forester 2015 review.

This vehicle is the best car ever in snow and ice even though it is all wheel drive. It made it up icy hills that a 4 wheel drive struggled to do. It is very spacious inside, allowing a lot of legroom for front seat and back seat passengers. It is got front seat warmers which work great on those cold winter days when you are waiting for the car to warm up. It has nice big mirrors. The only downsides are that the blind spots by the front windshield are big due to the frame. Also, the dashboard makes a rattling noise sometimes when driving.

Marie D on October 8, 2021

2015 Subaru Forester is durable, comfortable.

I have had my 2015 Subaru Forester for three years and it has been a very reliable vehicle. No problems with it so far. Great for road trips, very comfortable. The driver's side seat is adjustable and has lumbar support. Safe - comes with many airbags. The ride itself is very smooth and it does a great job of off-roading. The display screen can be toggled between many different options, including gas mileage, radio info, and vehicle traction. I would highly recommend this vehicle.

Lerma on October 12, 2021

Audio issue

Anna B on October 9, 2021

Great electronic safety system and overall affordable and safe car option.

The 2015 Subaru forester drives smoothly and has a great turning radius for a full size SUV. The electronic safety features were the main attraction when looking to purchase this car and they have come in handy almost every time I use the car. With an abs (automatic braking system) and eyesight that can let you know when the vehicle ahead has moved as well as cruise control, it's an ideal and safe vehicle.

Marcy S on October 12, 2021

If you are on the fence, you will not regret choosing Subaru!

I haven't owned my 2015 forester 2.5i for that long, less than a month in fact, but I am loving it. It is just the right size for my two kids and I. Plenty of space for comfort and cargo. Head room may be a little “iffy” for a tall person. Love the heated seats and panoramic sunroof! Nice sound system, hand free capabilities, bluetooth, etc. Hoping for many more years of enjoying it.

Ann T on October 8, 2021

Very safe and reliable car.

Very reliable. Comfort level is mid range. It does have backup camera and sunroof. Cloth seats. Otherwise basic interior. No mechanical problems so far. Bought used two years ago. Car has 120,000 miles on it, not surprising for a Subaru. I don't particularly like the look, but was looking for a reliable, kid friendly car for my family. Great for kids. Good storage in the back.

Melissa N on October 9, 2021

Good and bad - reliability vs comfort.

My 2015 Subaru forester has not been the most reliable, but I believe that is mostly due to the specific year it was made. There was a recall on 2015 Forresters because of the transmission- which I had to get replaced. They extended the warranty though, thankfully. Overall it is not a bad car. It has great visibility which is what I like most about it.

Alicia E on October 8, 2021

2015 Subaru forester 2.5i limited is reliable and offers great features!

My vehicle drives really smooth and accelerates well and I think the CVT transmission is why. The seats are heated and comfortable. I like the Bluetooth feature that allow me to connect with my phone for music, navigation, and hands-free calls. The back seats allow enough room to feel comfortable and not cramped. I enjoy the moonroof a lot, too!

Reese S on October 8, 2021

2015 Subaru Forester- Spacious and a decent workhorse!

Vehicle is very comfortable and reliable, visibility from the driver seat is fairly high. No reliability issues have been encountered personally by me. I find the car to be very comfortable and spacious enough for my work. It gets fairly good mileage at around 22~ miles per gallon. I have been very satisfied with my purchase.

David S on October 10, 2021

2015 Subaru forester: a reliable car!

The 2015 Subaru forester gets great gas mileage, is very comfortable (even for a 6' 4' driver), and does well in snow (we live in the mountains). The only challenge can be that it will burn through oil at a great rate when driven on long trips. I highly recommend this car to anyone looking for a cost effective, reliable car.

Virginia S on October 9, 2021

The 2015 Subaru Forester is a great mobile office.

The Subaru Forester is a very comfortable car. I drive quite a bit for work and the space, visibility, and overall handling of the Forester makes my day much more enjoyable. Being a bit higher up and the large windows are really great on my longer drives. I recommend the heated seats and getting the sunroof, panoramic.

Kristen C on October 8, 2021

Subaru Forester 2015 review

The Subaru Forester is a pretty nice vehicle. I like the electronic computer system and it drives nice. There have been problems with Subaru's lately related to transmission issues and I'm concerned about my vehicle since it's from that same year. Also had the fan go out in it and it cost me 500 dollars to fix

Leah B on October 8, 2021

Heated windshield wipers.

Easy to drive and it handles very well. Reacts to snowy roads. Gives a warning when roads may be icy. Heated windshield wipers are nice along with the heated seats and lumbar support. Back up screen is helpful. Side view mirrors are easy to use. Interior is very nice and coordinates with the color of the car.

Jenna G on October 12, 2021

Subaru forester 2015- great overall vehicle choice.

The car is incredibly comfortable to driver, handles very well and is very functional. There is great visibility and very few blind spots. The gas mileage is not great, however I do mainly city driving and average 21 mpg which is what was suggested and she runs just fine on regular. Overall love the car!

Annie Y on October 10, 2021

Highlights and positive points.

There is a recall on my 2015 Subaru forester for the brake performance, but Subaru will schedule a service fee to get the part replaced for free. Besides that, I love my car and the way it drives. It is definitely smooth and the plus side is the back up camera. The angle of the back up camera is super!

Joan A on October 10, 2021

Subaru needs an overhaul - fine details require attention.

The interior material is hard to remove stains from.. The gaskets around door often come off. The paint scratches very easily. The Bluetooth rarely works. Setting the clock was very difficult to do. I like the car but seems cheaply manufactured on some of the small features mentioned.

Glenn H on October 10, 2021

Good in bad weather. Steady to ride. Good gas mileage.

Hesitate when making sharp turn. Very good in snow and sand. I'll interior is well designed, easy to reach controls. Problem connecting to Bluetooth. Day night automatic mirror works well. Trunk space is roomy. Comes with full stereo. Have had two recalls on vehicle.

Melodie C on October 12, 2021

2015 Subaru forester is great car.

Reliable, can carry a lot of stuff! 4 passengers + driver and load of sports equipment. Easy to drive and park. Great controls on steering wheel. Stands up to abuse. Great base model at decent price. Excellent safety rating and cloth seats which I prefer.

Lynne D on October 9, 2021

I love the color and ease of parking.

I would prefer leather interior, seating is getting worn. Driving on freeway is a bit rough. Gas mileage okay and haven't had any reliability problems. Stock tires have needed repair twice. Driver seat upholstery is tearing even though have seat cover.

Jason V on September 27, 2021

Abysmal Quality

Susan Y on June 25, 2021

Great experience, great car!

This is my second Subaru forester because I found the car to be very reliable, low maintenance, sporty, and enough room for dogs and cargo. It is the perfect size for getting around a crowded city and traveling to the mountains. Not too much of anything-macho or girlie, ritzy or cheap and only makes a statement that is smart, practical and pleasant to drive. I do not mind providing a picture but do not have one available and time to provide it tonight. Would be nice to have the option to provide later.

Sara H on June 24, 2021

The most comfortable car we've ever had.

We have had almost no problems with our Subaru since we bought it. It is comfortable to ride in, and roomy enough to carry four plus-sized adults without anyone having to sit in anyone else’s lap. The features are easy to access and use. We've driven it across the country, and no matter what the terrain and the weather were like, we knew the Subaru could handle it and give us a comfortable ride in the meantime. We almost never drive anything else, and we recommend Subarus to anyone we know who is thinking of buying a vehicle.

Andrew on June 20, 2021

Oil consumption and passenger air bag concerns

I’m waiting to purchase a 2015 Forester, I’ve read a lot of info on the positive and the negative of this year. There has been two recalls, and today I just read about the third recall due to heated seats and the deactivation of the airbag on the passenger side. Today also I’m reading there is a class action suit against Subaru for excessive oil consumptions! I’m very concerned now should I let this car go or buy it and hope for the best? Someone please help.

Lora R on June 19, 2021

I will never buy anything other than a Subaru again.

I have never felt more confident driving than I do in my Subaru. I used to be terrified to drive in the rain, but after experiencing how the Forester handles on wet roads, I can say that I no longer have those fears. It is very comfortable for long trips, as well. I have used it for many long drives and will continue using it until it falls apart. I opted to get a manual transmission and I love the way it runs. I have not had any mechanical issues. With regular scheduled maintenance, I anticipate it will continue to run reliably for many years to come.

Nina B on June 14, 2021

Pro's and con's of the Subaru.

The Subaru is great however I have had some problems with the oil, even thought I change it frequently the oil change light always lights up. Another issue I have been having is the airflow it seems like the airflow is lacking even when adding antifreeze. The Subaru is very spacious and it is great for riding over different terrain.

Karin R on June 12, 2021

Perfect vehicle for family of 4.

This is a nice size vehicle for a family of 4. The kids have enough leg space in the back and there is plenty of room in the trunk to hold things. I feel safe driving it in the rain and the snow. It gets good gas miles. We haven't had any problems with it.

Arsen on June 12, 2021

123

Monica J on June 8, 2021

Safety was my reason for buying the car, and I feel very safe driving it.

The only issue I have ever had is in the wintertime during very cold snaps the tire pressure light comes on and cannot tell which tire is low. The steering wheel will lock occasionally and difficult to unlock. Otherwise I am pleased with the vehicle, gas mileage is good and runs very well.

Sara S on June 2, 2021

Great car and fun to drive.

This car is stylish and fun to drive. I love the moon roof and power liftgate. Like every Subaru I have ever had, the cup holders are awful and the doors do not automatically lock when the car is in motion. The stereo is not very good quality. Otherwise it is a great car.

Elaine L on May 28, 2021

Great special features and quality car.

It has a great backup camera. The inside detailing is very nice. I wish the side mirrors lit up when another car is close or in the blind spot. There is an open roof. The space is perfect. The screens and set up are very easy to navigate. The gas tank must be opened from a lever in the inside of the car.

Jeffrey K on May 23, 2021

Amazing car with some simple but effective features!

The car has great space in the back, especially good for large musical instruments. Burns oil very quickly, but has great gas mileage. An amazing car for an average family. The color is very beautiful and stands out in the sunlight. The sunroof is amazing, especially for hot summer evenings.

Matthew E on May 20, 2021

Family forward, workhorse of a crossover!

Problems include a noisy transmission and while shifting gears. The performance on the car is mediocre, acceleration is poor, but visibility is great along with safety. The forester is comfortable to drive and very reliable, but has low end features and finishes compared to other luxury brands.

Christine K on May 19, 2021

Suzy the Subaru is the best car I ever bought.

I love my Subaru. It is reliable, safe and fun to drive. It is roomy and great on road trips. It gets great gas mileage. It has tons of awesome features, moon roof, Bluetooth, heated seats to name a few. It has close to 75 thousand miles on it and runs great. I got the remote start package, it wasn’t included but worth every penny.

Noel S on May 15, 2021

Best purchase of a car made us happy.

It is a great car and has been excellent for 5 years. We have taken many long car trips to various states and have had a smooth drive with no problems. We love taking the car to the service area for normal check ups and are amazed at the speed and care every time. The green forester makes us feel safe in all weather and we are happy we purchased it.

Melea B on May 14, 2021

Best car I have ever owned!

The best car I have ever owned. Reliable. Cheap to fix. Maintains value. Performs well in all weather. Got me across the country. I will be buying another Subaru after this one dies. I am impressed by the quality and value of my vehicle. I would highly recommend this car to anyone who is in the market for one.

Amanda N on May 9, 2021

I love my Subaru and It's eyesight function.

I really love my Subaru forester. I purchased it originally for the area I lived in which receives ample snowfall each year. It handles like a champ on wet and icy roads alike. It has been super reliable and has had few problems. The few that did come up were recalled and Subaru took care of them quickly and for free. Its super comfortable with ample space and visibility which is great. I also seeked this particular model out due to all the safety features it has. It's been a great travel car and would recommend.

Ginny W on May 9, 2021

Subaru forester: awesome small SUV.

I have been extremely satisfied with my Subaru. It is the perfect small SUV and is fun to drive. I have not had to do much maintenance/repairs on the car even though I have driven over 100,000 miles. The car comfortably seats 5 people and has a large storage space in the back. I also like the feature of a hidden compartment in the back.

Rajin N on May 7, 2021

Safe, comfortable, and reliable.

I love my car. My Subaru is very reliable and spacious. I have experienced no problems with the performance or quality of the car. I would recommend getting leather seats to optimize comfort. Also, one feature I really like is my car can detect what is in front of it and alter me immediately.

Patricia O on April 29, 2021

Great Subaru forester has all the things you need for traveling!

I love this car. It is all wheel drive so I do not have to worry about going on dirt roads or drive in the winter. The seats are comfortable. Plenty of trunk space and roomy back seats. I have had the car for one year and have not had any problems with it so far. I have owned subaru’s in the past and they always perform great!

Katie P on April 27, 2021

Love the fact that it does not appear to have any blind spots.

It is a fairly standard vehicle. Nothing fancy, but very reliable. It can be kind of a rough ride, but also does well on a variety of terrains. Compared to other cars I have driven, it does not appear to have a blind spot. In other words, it has lots of window space and visibility.

Franz D on April 22, 2021

Subaru, a car that will take you places.

It gets me where I need to go while saving on gas. Subaru cars are extremely reliable and the forester is the perfect size car for my needs. Now it is not perfect, obviously it is not a car that does not consume gas. To me it is still a wonderful car that can both move on the road and off. I took it to Arizona and it did just fine up in the gravel and dirt. I know people that go mudding in these kinds of cars. It is not my style but nice to know what my ride can do. If you are looking for a safe and reliable car, this one's for you.

Abby B on April 20, 2021

Subaru forester: reliable and easy.

I love my Subaru forester because it is very low maintenance and it is very reliable. My Subaru is 5 years old and still has amazing features such as Bluetooth, a backup camera, and automatic adjustments. The forester is very easy to clean and take care of and I have always loved the look of it. It is not too small and not too big.

Tiffany R on April 17, 2021

We love our family friendly Forrester!

We love our Subaru forester! It is a great family car, that has plenty of room for our family of four. It has the get up and go that a car has, but also the build of a small SUV. We love the safety features standard with Subaru. There have been a few recalls on the car, one being a seat sensor issue and the other a spring within the brakes. Subaru replaced/fixed these features free of charge. It is a comfortable car, has been completely reliable, and we know will last for years. My only complaint about this model would be that there is no air in the back, which in the 100 degree AZ heat, can be a challenge.

Alison L on April 17, 2021

AWD for the back roads and great for the city.

I love the AWD that it is very reliable. I love taking it to the lake and back desert and to the mountains. The seats are comfortable and the front seats lay all the way back. I like all the extra accessories available for outdoor activities. I also like the bright blue color.

Caitlin F on April 16, 2021

Subaru: best pre owned value, excellent life.

This is an extremely reliable vehicle. It drives in the snow like a champ. The maintenance costs are minimal. I haven't had any issues with it since I bought it. Subaru foresters are very safe. It is an excellent vehicle to purchase, even used. It is stylish, and roomy, and can transport large items.

Ann B on April 14, 2021

Good, solid vehicle with comfortable ride.

I haven't really had any mechanical problems. Then again, I only drive about 5000 miles a year. It drives well and is quiet. Next time I would get a vehicle that has an automatic hatch opener. I do wish the shoulder belt had a positioner so I could change how high up on my neck it goes. I am short so it ends up crossing my neck.

Karine S on April 8, 2021

Great car! More luxurious?

Great car! Wish it unlocked when you open from the inside and locked automatically upon driving. Cooling seats would be nice as well as a/c vents in back seat. One more thing is that the hatch takes it sweet time opening. No big deal. I love my Subaru!

Cathy W on April 5, 2021

2015 Subaru forester - your next vehicle.

This car has the features of seat warming for the winter. You can select from high or low seat warming. This car has the flexibility to have the back seats down for transporting things. This car has plenty of backseat room for transporting dogs, bags of soil and furniture.

James C on April 3, 2021

Solid car that has adaptive cruise control

It's a really good car. I love the adaptive cruise control in the car as I use it all the time on the highway. Really the only negative I have is the bluetooth. It's inferior to other cars. It doesn't download your numbers so you have to manually create names and numbers so when I call out I just manually call.

Melissa d on March 31, 2021

Safe for your entire family

I love the way the vehicle drives. It's comfortable, yet feels safe. It has many safety features that make me feel secure using it for my whole family. It's dependable and, aside from maintenance, I've not had any issues with it. I hope to drive it for a long time to come.

Randy S on March 29, 2021

Subaru Handles Great In All Kinds Of Weather and Terrain!

I Ike the height of the vehicle, the mileage and how it handles in the snow. I also enjoy the sun roof, the heated seats and the storage space. The ride is a little bumpy on rough roads.

Stephanie B on March 28, 2021

Great for adventure and family travel.

I feel safe in any conditions driving my Subaru forester. I feel like the car has great visibility and drives very smoothly. The only concern has been a number or recall, one of which was related to the brake light switch and one related to the passenger air bag sensor.

Travis on March 27, 2021

2015 Subaru Forester - Nothing but problems

Karalyn J on March 23, 2021

I feel safe and comfortable driving my Subaru.

I love the way the subaru drives. It is a safe and fun vehicle to drive on our family trips. Great gas mileage and room for everything we need. It's a good fit for our family.

lor e on March 23, 2021

My Subaru is a tough and durable car suitable for all driving conditions.

I like my Subaru because it is great in all weather conditions. It fits everything I need to go on all my adventures. It's a great car.

Stephanie R on March 23, 2021

Very reliable and comfortable vehicle.

My vehicle is very comfortable and reliable. I get great gas mileage. I have not had any problems with it. I love my heated leather seats. I love the all wheel drive. My vehicle goes great in the snow. I would recommend this vehicle to anyone. I am very happy with my vehicle.

Lauren M on March 20, 2021

Reliable 2015 Subaru forester.

As of right now I am not having any problems with my vehicle. I love my Subaru. I feel safe driving my car and feel it is a very reliable car to have. My car has a backup camera which comes in very handy, and Bluetooth. The only thing that frustrates me is when my dog is in the car with me the passenger seat belt notification goes off.

Lyn N on March 19, 2021

I bought it in boardman Ohio and the customer service is terrible. I bought it used and had to put new tires on right away

This is my first Subaru and I like how it rides, looks and is easy to drive

Olivia S on March 17, 2021

I love my Subaru! Awesome and beautiful.

I love my Subaru! It accelerates great and it is super easy to find all the nooks and crannies on the dashboard and control center. I do not have a garage so it sits outside in the cold. It does take some time to warm up and I have to set aside an extra 5-7 minutes because it does not have remote start.

Glen T on March 16, 2021

Good basic vehicle for all weather.

Good handling in snow conditions. Bluetooth problem, does not work well with various phones I tried. Good gas mileage. Only needed basic maintenance to date. Interior holds up well. Best feature is automatic dimming inside and outside mirrors. Controls on steering wheel well placed.

Leslee H on March 15, 2021

Our vehicle has Eye Sight, although it is not as advanced as the newer vehicle but for its day and still today I feel it is a lifesaver along with the navigation, headlights, it has a lot of safety features.

We purchased our Subaru as what I like to refer to it as our New Used SUV, while test driving it the miles flipped over to 6500. Someone else broke everything in and paid most of the depreciation. We are thrilled with our Forester.

Dani M on March 15, 2021

Reliable and stylish car that I can trust.

This is my second Subaru forester ever- I love the look and safety of the model and I trust the manufacturer. I love my car aside from the back panel blind spot (panels by back windows are a bit wide and make it hard to check your blind spot). Gas mileage is good, I like the size and the way it runs (mid size SUV), spacious trunk, and leg room. I stick with Subaru because they are reliable and durable and make me feel safe during New England winters.

Jeff M on March 9, 2021

Too many repairs over first 5 years/55k miles

Christina W on March 9, 2021

Blah Subaru has nothing special use.

The vehicle does not have any problems, it just is a very plain car with no bells and whistles. This is not my dream car. It performs well in the snow and bad weather and has a sunroof, otherwise the car is just blah. Nothing really special about it.

Sarah B on March 8, 2021

It's a nice comfortable car and one that I would recommend to others if you like a mid-size suv.

I like the color of the vehicle. It's also very comfortable and I like that it has bluetooth in it. I've had some maintenance issues with the car however and that is a major dislike.

Lance R on March 8, 2021

A good car for everyday use.

The forester has a good, smooth ride and its inline 4 boxer engine is excellent for fuel economy. The all wheel drive configuration helps greatly with off road travel and driving in snow during the winter. The interior is clean and comfortable, with some tech.

Cat T on March 8, 2021

Safe and reliable car great for whole family.

My vehicle is extremely reliable and it is a great family car for young drivers and older adults. The vehicle has excellent range of view with small blind spots and my individual vehicle has a small mirror in the driver's side mirror to show the blind spot as well making it even safer. The car is also great in the snow and ice conditions.

Brock W on March 7, 2021

Versatile SUV, the Subaru forester

It's a manual because my ex wife had to have a manual then she stuck me with it. Other than that the forester is great. Runs well, have had no maintenance issues in nearly 100k miles. Gets great gas mileage, and very versatile with the storage capacity.

Luis S on March 4, 2021

That is a reliable car to own and drive. Safety is a big concern.

It's a safe car to drive, riding the car is smooth. Sometimes the key ignition locks the wheel.

Alex Showalter

Alex is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. He brings a wealth of knowledge to Vehicle History as our Staff Writer and has written hundreds of used car reviews helping buyers make informed purchasing decisions. He is a member of the Automotive Press Association, and keeps up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry. Over the years, he has driven hundreds of cars, working on many of them. His mechanical experience evolved from modifying off-road trucks as a teen to focusing on automotive electrical systems as he got older. He now specializes in reviewing used cars as an automotive journalist. Some of his favorite brands are Toyota and BMW. The Toyota Land Cruiser is one of his favorite vehicles of all time since they’re built to last forever and can go anywhere. One of his current cars is a Lexus LX570, built on the same platform as the 200-series Land Cruiser, but it’s a better value in the used market.