2018 Subaru Forester Review: Comfortable & Dependable Small SUV With Low Ownership Costs

Alex Showalter

Jan 13, 2023

The 2018 Subaru Forester lasts around 250,000 miles with some relatively minor windshield and rattling issues reported. At $18,050 to $24,700, it’s a decent value for a comfortable small SUV with good reliability ratings.

The Good

The all-wheel drive system is great in the snow, the engines are efficient and visibility is fantastic.

The Bad

There’s a lot of road noise compared to other small SUVs, the towing capacity is low and the transmission feels slow.

Is the 2018 Subaru Forester a Good Used SUV?

Overall Rating 8/10 – 2018 is a good year for the Subaru Forester since reliability ratings are high & the all-wheel drive system is great. Owner reviews praise the safety features, nice cabin, as well as the relatively low ownership costs as they age.
Interior, Comfort & Cargo 8/10 – Interior materials are good for a small SUV, the seats are supportive on longer trips, cargo space is also good for its size.
Reliability 8/10 – There are no major problems found on the 2018 Forester. Stay away from models from 2014–2015 since they have engine problems, 2016–2022 are much more reliable.
Performance 8/10 – Performance is good from the upgraded turbocharged 4-cylinder engine for a small SUV.
Safety 9/10 – The 2019 Forester is safe, earning a perfect 5-star rating in government crash tests. There’s a standard rearview camera. Optional upgrades include automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, as well as lane keep assist.
Gas Mileage 8/10 – Fuel economy is good at up to 28 MPG, giving 445 miles of range from the 15.9 gallon tank. Gas costs are $60 cheaper than average, at $146 per month.
Value 8/10 – Depreciation is slow on the 2018 Subaru Forester, making it a great long-term value for shoppers, even if it’s more expensive up-front.

Positive Owner Reviews

Sarah G

Highly recommend the forester.

I really enjoy the panoramic sunroof and the openness of the forester. There is not a blind spot on the vehicle, the visibility of the car gives me peace of mind while driving. It also has a number a great safety features like automatic pre collision braking, lane departure alert, and distance pacing cruise control. It rides really smooth, is really roomy and a very reliable car.

Kelsey M

Perfect for two dogs. Love the look of the vehicle, quiet drive, actually enjoy driving

Perfect for transporting pets, love the features on the car, love the drive, only complaint is the white cloth seats

Debra M

It is a Subaru which means it has an all wheel drive!

I have a brand new Subaru Forester that I love! The styling looks like a Range Rover with lots of window space, a huge sunroof , all wheel drive, and lots of power! The seats are very comfortable, it sits higher off the ground to see over traffic, and is fun to drive. My only complaint is I wish it had a self opening and closing tailgate

Katherine F

Subaru forester is a dream car!

I love this car so much! By far the most reliable car I have ever driven. Gets me where I need to be without fuss or frustration and gas prices are never an issue with this car’s mileage. The car remains a comfortable place for me as a driver and my passengers. One of the only flaws is the lack of air conditioning/heating in the back seat, making hot days hotter and cold days colder. All the windows are large which allow for lots of light and visibility allowing me to always feel like I am immersed in my surroundings!

Kristie M

Subaru's in general, have a great rating for longevity and last a good long time.

I love the way my Forester drives, I love that it has lots of legroom not only in the front, but also in the back seats. Although I would like a larger car, like a minivan, I am happy with the space in the Forester. The price was right and the dependability was a big factor, it should last us a good long time.

Leah G

This is a well rounded car.

Overall, the Subaru forester is a great car. It drives especially well in the snow or rain. I learned how to drive in this car and it was perfect because of how smoothly it drove. I has many safety features such as the blind spot detectors and the automatic braking system.

Cathy B

I think gas mileage would surprise most people.

It gets great gas mileage. It has very high safety ratings. It is comfortable for a long commute. I wish I could have afforded leather seats and more options. But I love my Subaru.

Kate R

It is a very simple but well made car.

The Subaru forester is very simple and not flashy, which I like. It has a very roomy feel and visibility is good from every angle. I truly trust the brand and car to keep me safe while driving. The inside is comfortable and the controls are simple and straightforward.

Negative Owner Reviews

Kim Jackson

False Advertising on fuel mileage

This is one of the worst vehicles I have ever owned, and will never buy a Subaru again. I get only 15 MPG in town and 22 highway. I have had 2 manifold leaks on the car since new and expect that this will continue. Subaru refuses to acknowledge poor fuel mileage as there is no engine code being thrown.

Charles

This vehicle is not reliable and can be dangerous to drive.

Auto Star/Stop function is a BIG problem, very DANGEROUS when doesn't work propertly, the auto stop abruptly in any moment. Another big issue is the CVT Transmission doesn't last more that 5 years without big problems. I don't recomend this vehicle, it's a shame because I really like the look ans the AWD when works propertly.

Maddie W

Subaru: my favorite car, just a few cons you should know about.

I am not a fan of the seats. I loved the way it drove and that car was my baby but the only thing that bothered me was that the seats were uncomfortable to sit in for more than 30 minutes. But besides that it was my favorite car I have ever had. Also the drive wasn't very smooth but everything else was a dream in that car.

Jose M

The car is garbage stay away.

Well to start off the car is bad on gas and not a good car for a daily. Also the cars engine seems to fail in many ways my car actually caught fire and was completely rebuilt and now my car still shoots blew smoke out the exhaust. Another common problem is the engine oil seems to always be way to hot and the car always has a turbo leak always has turbo leaks. Also the cars breaks should be change asap after buying the car the breaks in the car are total garbage. The seats the seem so last all 4 months into the car daily driving it the seats look worn out.

Jenna G

It is fine. No issues with my car.

Giant crack in window and expensive lease. Car is fine other than that. Saved my life 2 years ago. Yea.

Amy J

Not so good

This is our third forester, the first being in 1998 the year the forester came out. I can attest that the carpeting and material used on the seats in the base model was far better than what you get now. We had fog lights standard, no longer so. With our 2018 we lost one of the holders for sunglasses, and 3 of the directional tabs for the vents broke off before the first oil change. It also takes far longer to warm up in the winter than the 2 previous models did and the pick-up also feels reduced. The trunk is not as deep, when you put the back seats up the strip that is supposed to be snapped in and glide up behind the seats buckles and needs to be reset. The tarp above the trunk area is not at all simple with the addition of a strip between the back seats and the bar that has stretch ties that go over the headrests. Not easy to quickly remove. If you are moving furniture, as we just recently had to do, it is difficult to slide anything into the back, it gets caught on the strip between the folded seats n trunk its so so very uneven that you have to pad the trunk area to level the space - ok if you're moving 1 thing - not ok if you are moving and need to pack more than 1 piece of furniture and other belongings. The seats are, amazingly, even more uncomfortable than the 2006 Forester we had making longer trips difficult. It does handle as well as the other Foresters we had, and the engine change should probably end the suicidal head gasket which both the 1998 and 2006 experienced at 79k n 100k respectively (the latter due to additives in the oil to extend the life of the gasket). Unhappy with the vibration of the rear view mirror which is now attached to the windshield instead of the ceiling and moves when the radio is on. The ride is not as loud as the 2006 was, however, the 2006 increased in rattling noise as it aged. Aside from the backup screen which I do like, the touch screen radio is not so great and more of a distraction. I'm sure its going to be a wonder of electronic mishaps for the future. My 2006 had a shorting sensor for the doors which was placed behind the grill on the drivers side. It happily locked me out of the car on rainy days when I'd get out to check the mailbox, took a bit to figure out it wasn't possessed. I am pretty sure this will be our last Forester. My husband has been the driving factor in our purchase of this model based on the all wheel drive and safety features. Im sure there will be more all wheel drive choices in the future from companies other than Subaru.

Beatrice Heard

All important a sound vehicle mechanics...in four years it has been a headache fir repairs

The handling on the road is excellent as for seeing out the side windows, back not very good ...difficult door frames are too much in the way....had to remove the passenger head rest for better viewing

Gretchen V

Subaru forester drives itself.

The eyesight feature makes the car seem to drive itself. The transmission does not allow for a smooth changing of gears from time-to-time. The warranty for the tranny has been extended from 36,000 to 100,000. The interior is nice and my vehicle came with both a rubber and carpeted floor mat.

What Do Critics Say About the Subaru Forester?

Consumer Reports says the 2018 Subaru Forester stands out from the crowd of small SUVs as a good choice, with high owner satisfaction scores.
Edmunds rates the Forester at 4.4/5, praising the higher ground clearance, but doesn’t like the unresponsive CVT transmission.
Kelley Blue Book users give the 2018 Forester a 4.3/5, enjoying the great all-wheel drive system, but owners don’t like the raspy-sounding engine.

What Common Problems Does the 2018 Subaru Forester Have?

Common problems found on the 2018 Subaru Forester include a broken windshield, excessive rattling from the dash, and a broken backup camera. Overall, these problems are very minor compared to other small SUVs, leading to lower than average repair bills as it ages.

A broken windshield is the most widespread complaint from 2018 Forester owners in the first 30,000 miles. There are some models which have weaker windshields than others due to manufacturing defects, making them more susceptible to cracking. Replacing the windshield is the only way to fix it, costing around $800.

Excessive rattling from inside the dash has also shown up on some Forester models in the first 10,000 miles. There are a lot of clips and screws in the dash which can come loose early in the ownership experience. Finding the source of the problem and replacing any damaged parts costs around $150, depending on local labor rates.

A broken backup camera has also been mentioned by some Forester owners at around 40,000 miles. Usually, when the camera does not display an image on the dash, it’s a sign of a software problem, and simply restarting the car fixes it. If that doesn’t solve the problem, you may need an update which is usually installed for free. If the camera itself is damaged then it costs roughly $650 to replace.

There are three recalls on the 2018 Subaru Forester, which is similar to other small SUVs. The most serious recall covers a fuel pump failure which can cause the engine to stall. Subaru will replace the fuel pump in affected models for free. Other recalls cover incorrect tire information labels, as well as a software update to the airbag system, which are both not mechanical concerns.

How Long Will the 2018 Subaru Forester Last?

A well-maintained 2018 Subaru Forester can last around 250,000 miles, which is about 50,000 miles less than the long-lasting Toyota RAV4. Regular annual maintenance costs are similar to other small SUVs, according to data provided by Repair Pal, at $484 per year.

As a used 2018 Subaru Forester reaches 100,000 miles, and depending on the vehicle history, owners should be prepared to replace the drive axle costing $850, oil pressure sensor costing $400, as well as the A/C compressor which is around $900.

Tracie S

So far I have had no problems with it. I got a letter about an impending recall on it, but that is about it.

Slevine R

I have no encountered any issues with my Subaru forester, if I do, I will be going to a Subaru dealership to handle them.

Christina M

This is an extremely reliable vehicle. We have not had any issues with it since we first started driving it a little over a year and a half ago. We actually plan to buy it once the lease is done!

Anna D

This vehicle is extremely reliable- I live in snow country and it has never let me down. It is great in snow and on ice. I feel secure in the Subaru forester.

heather b

Haven't had any problems other than a malfunction in window switch having a mind of its own when trying to put it up.

Tana T

My Subaru has no problems. I have had it for over a year and have gotten regular maintenance. We've had the inside air filter replaced and that is only because of the number of miles I was driving it and the conditions on those roads.

Josh M

Have had absolutely NO problems with it and yes I consider it very reliable. So far in the year I've had it - it's been wonderful.

Kris M

I think it is, especially as a car for leasing; it is maintained on a regular basis. Currently it does not have any problem.

How Is the Technology?

Entertainment technology is very good since the Forester offers a standard 6.2-inch touchscreen with Subaru’s Starlink software. There’s a 7-inch touchscreen on 2.5i Premium and higher models.

Standard safety technology is good, with a rearview camera. Subaru EyeSight is an optional upgrade. The advanced safety features in EyeSight include forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, head-up display, blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert, automatic high beams, adaptive headlights, as well as reverse automatic braking.

Is the 2018 Subaru Forester a Good Value?

Yes, the 2018 Subaru Forester is a good value since it offers decent reliability as it ages, with a nice interior. The blue book fair purchase price ranges from $18,050 to $24,700, making it more than a Kia Niro or Nissan Rogue. When new, the price was $22,795 to $36,090. Depreciation is better than some other small SUVs, losing only about 7% of its current value per year.

What are the Different Models of the Subaru Forester?

There are six models of the 2018 Subaru Forester offered from the 2.5i all the way up to the 2.0XT Touring model. All Forester models come standard with all-wheel drive.

2.5i is the entry-level model with:

17-Inch Steel Wheels
Cloth Upholstery
Height-Adjustable Driver Seat
60/40-Split Folding Rear Seatback
Bluetooth Phone Connectivity
Driver Information Display
Rearview Camera
2-Inch Touchscreen
Four-Speaker Sound System

2.5i Premium is a step up, adding:

17-Inch Alloy Wheels
Panoramic Sunroof
Power Driver Seat
Reclining Rear Seats
Automatic Climate Control
7-Inch Touchscreen
Voice Commands
Leather Wrapped Steering Wheel
Starlink Safety Plus
Satellite Radio
Six-Speaker Sound System

2.5i Limited is next in the lineup with:

Power Liftgate
Leather Upholstery
Blind-Spot Monitoring
Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
Cargo Area Cover
Upgraded Driver Information Display

2.5i Touring adds features such as:

18-Inch Alloy Wheels
Adaptive LED Headlights
Keyless Ignition and Entry
Dual-Zone Automatic Climate Control
Heated Steering Wheel
One-Touch Folding Seatbacks
Standard EyeSight Safety

2.0XT Premium offers more items including:

Unique 18-Inch Alloy Wheels
Larger Brakes
Sport-Tuned Suspension
Shift Paddles

2.0XT Touring is the flagship model with:

Power Liftgate
Auto-Dimming Rearview Mirrors
Eight-Speaker Harman Kardon Sound System

Base

170 HP 28 MPG

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Premium Black Edition

170 HP 28 MPG

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Premium Black Edition w/EyeSight

170 HP 28 MPG

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Limited

170 HP 28 MPG

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Premium

250 HP 25 MPG

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Touring

250 HP 25 MPG

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What Engines Come In the Subaru Forester?

The base engine is an average 2.5L 4-cylinder which makes 170 horsepower while getting up to 28 MPG. It’s offered with either a six-speed manual transmission, or a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT).
An available upgrade is the strong turbocharged 2.0L 4-cylinder which produces 250 horsepower at up to 25 MPG. It’s only offered with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). Performance is good, taking 6.3 seconds to go from 0-60 MPH.

What Colors Does the Subaru Forester Come In?

How Comfortable Is the Subaru Forester?

Overall, the 2018 Subaru Forester is a very comfortable small SUV. It has a smooth ride and supportive seats, and most owners say that it is easy to drive for long periods of time without feeling tired or stressed.

The Forester also has a good amount of legroom and headroom in both the front and back seats, which can be important for longer trips or for taller passengers. The cabin is also relatively quiet, with minimal road and wind noise, which can contribute to the overall comfort of the Forester.

How Much Storage Space Does the Subaru Forester Have?

Cargo space is similar to other small SUVs, giving enough space for 6-7 suitcases behind the rear seats, and over 15 with the back seats folded flat.

What Are the Differences Between Years?

The fourth generation of the Subaru Forester came out in 2014, and was replaced by the fifth generation in 2019.

2015: Upgraded 18-inch wheels offered, standard rearview camera on all models.

2016: New stereo system with 6.2 or 7-inch touchscreens available.

2017: EyeSight safety system has lane departure intervention, minor front grille changes.

2018: Black edition package available with darker wheels and trim.

2019: Fully redesigned for the fifth generation with more passenger room, stronger engines, and better safety technology.

2020: All-weather package added to Premium model, standard lane-centering assistance across the lineup.

2021: Automatic high beams are standard on all models.

How Does the Subaru Forester Compare to the Competition?

The 2018 Subaru Forester is a great compact SUV since it offers a nice interior, good reliability ratings, and a great all-wheel drive system which helps it stand out from the pack.

The Subaru Outback is another SUV offered by Subaru which costs around $1,000 more. Passenger room is better in the Subaru Outback, while the Subaru Forester is more nimble and fun to drive. We recommend the Subaru Outback since you get more practicality for your money, although both are nice choices.

The Toyota RAV4 is a small SUV which costs around $1,700 more. Ownership costs are slightly lower on the Toyota RAV4, while the Subaru Forester is much quicker with the optional engine. We recommend the Toyota RAV4 since they will be cheaper to own long-term, although both are worth checking out to see which you prefer.

Ranks #2 Compact SUV by Owners

2018 Kia Niro

4.71

Tie

2018 Subaru Forester

4.69

Tie

2018 Subaru Crosstrek

4.69

Do Owners Recommend the Subaru Forester?

Tracie S

Yes. The gas mileage is great. There are hardly any blind spots. My whole family fits easily into it and I love how it handles. I also love the options it comes with and the safety features.

Slevine R

Yes. It meets all of my needs and I feel safe in my vehicle. It is reliable and has not had any issues.

Christina M

Yes, I never thought I would drive an SUV, but this was the perfect transition vehicle for our expanding family and my comfort level. We also specifically sought out a Subaru because of the safety features and are very happy with how they perform. Also, the visibility is greatly improved from my previous vehicle, a Hyundai Elantra.

Anna D

The 2018 Subaru forester is an excellent vehicle. It perform excellently in snow and ice, is great on gas, has a sophisticated style and a great price. I love it.

heather b

Subaru forester is a good vehicle to have great in inclement weather great on road traction great vehicle all together.

Tana T

It is a very good vehicle. It is my daily driver, it is comfortable, safe, and gets good gas mileage.I've has it for over a year now and have driven it in the hills, on the highway, and in the snow. It handles like a dream in all conditions. Knowing about the traction control tire technology make me feel an extra level of safety when traveling in the snow over the holidays, I even drove in the snow and ice- no problem.

Natasha J

Very much so. love it. Very safe car. Love driving it. A step up from my previous smaller sized SUV. Feels sturdy and is great on gas mileage. Drives great in bad weather conditions.

Kali B

It is a great car for me for several reasons: spacious interior to tote my two boys around, has a nice height for a driver and space in the back trunk.

Owner Reviews

Write a Review

Dianne M on June 25, 2021

All the bells and whistles: rear backup assist. 'Eyesight' to keep driver safe.

My Subaru is perfect for me. It is comfortable with seats that can be heated when it is cold. It has 'eyesight' which is a feature that helps with all that surrounds the vehicle. It also helps with seeing what's coming in the adjacent lanes before changing lanes. It has the capability of stopping the vehicle if it is at the point of hitting the vehicle ahead.

Lee U on June 25, 2021

My blue heaven, my Subaru forester.

My Subaru forester, with 4wd, is a wonderfully reliable and functional SUV. It is great in the upper New England geography and weather (long snowy/icy winters) that I live in. It is very comfortable and feels safe and solid. It is a beautiful shade of blue and the sound system is real decent.

Chris N on June 19, 2021

Super smooth ride with a rugged look.

I love the foresters AWD and horsepower for a small motor. The car feels extremely safe and does great in all weather conditions. Fits my small family perfectly along with all of our luggage on short trips or a long vacation. I would recommend the vehicle to anyone.

Laura G on June 1, 2021

Safe car to drive! Good on gas.

Love my Subaru,I enjoy the features that it comes with. Feel safe in the car and that is hugely important to me. Seat warmers are an added plans in the colder weather. Lights that adjust when you turn the corners is a great feature. Wish that the back seat had a better adjusting position.

Sandra S on May 27, 2021

Overall great; wish had sprung for GPS.

The Subaru is a very smooth ride. I enjoy the backup cameras and the aid built into it. At times I wish we had sprung for the GPS package as it would make directions much easier. Other than that I can think of no other problems. The size is great and there is lots of trunk space.

Brandon H on May 26, 2021

The sport sharp mode is a lot of fun.

The Subaru forester is super practical. Can take it really anywhere that I could ever want. The xt is nice because it has a turbocharged engine making it fairly quick, compared to over midsize SUVs. The CVT transmission is also incredibly smooth and barely notice any issues with shifting.

Morgan H on May 20, 2021

The best car for Colorado is the Subaru forester.

I have had my car for three years and there has not been any problems so far. It handles well, especially in the snow. I am a delivery driver, and the mpg is really good and I always feel safe when I am behind the wheel. The windows all around offer great visibility, which is one of my favorite aspects.

Shannon G on May 19, 2021

Subaru fan for life, first time owner, but lifetime fan.

I love my Subaru. It is reliable and very comfortable. The only thing I wish it had was automatic headlights. Having to turn on headlights is literally the only thing I dislike about the vehicle. The forester provides plenty of room for passengers in the back seat and plenty of room for 2 large dogs in the back. It drives very smoothly. I would purchase another Subaru before and other make of car.

Ellen C on May 4, 2021

Safe, comfortable, with a great cargo area.

The car rides smoothly. I have great vision of the road since I ride higher in the CUV. I can sit 3 people currently in the back. It has a good truck space that I can load 3 large suitcases plus a few smaller ones when I take friends to the cruise pier or airport. It has lane departure warning and a backup cameras. It also has emergency braking if I get too close to the car in front.

Candace P on May 2, 2021

I love my Subaru and cannot imagine driving anything else!

I love the safety features of the Subaru forester! It has huge windows to help with blind spots and drives with ease. It is a pretty smooth ride and the panoramic sunroof is a extra added bonus! My model does not have the eyesight feature, navigation, or apple car play through. The next one will though as I believe it is pretty standard now. I really feel the tires grab the road and that makes me feel completely comfortable driving in the rain and etc. I am forever a Subaru buyer now!

audrey T on April 27, 2021

Subaru forester xt -- winner!

The visibility on the forester is outstanding, far superior to the outback, which does not have great visibility. The forester is very roomy and comfortable. I have the xt (turbo) model, which is very peppy and fun to drive. There is not much I do not like. There's a lot of glare and reflections happening while driving, which is a distraction. Subaru should offer some kind of seat protection for the front seats. Because of the side airbags, Subaru say you cannot use seat covers on this car. I would change that.

Whitney A on April 22, 2021

Love it! Worth the energy and money!

I do not have any vehicle problems. It is so reliable and comfortable. We drive it on long trips (10 hours) with no issues. It is roomy with basically no blind spots. When traveling, others always want to take my car. I highly recommend it. If you are looking for a new car, this is the one for you. Family friendly, safe and reliable.

Gaby G on April 13, 2021

Subaru forester, fall in love with the forester!

I have only leased the vehicle for a year so far, but my Subaru forester is very reliable. It does not have too many fancy extras, but I would definitely recommend leasing this make and model. I will likely lease the newest forester when my old lease is up!

Gretchen V on April 10, 2021

Subaru forester drives itself.

Aaron C on April 9, 2021

Very solid, reliable all-around SUV.

Great pickup getting on the highway and easy handling when on the highway. Good sight lines. Has remained in very good condition after two and half years of driving. No major repairs needed beyond basic maintenance. Good gas mileage for an SUV. Easy to use Bluetooth on audio screen. Back seats fold up and down easily for storing large items in the back.

Mary F on April 7, 2021

Safe and secure Subaru forester.

What I love about my vehicle is the safety system. It has great safety features, including video backup and auto cruise. The vehicle is very reliable, and I have never felt that I was unsafe in any weather, and I live in the Midwest, where inclement weather is very common.

Maria S on April 6, 2021

Easy to vacuum and keep the interior clean. Best car ever.

We have not had any major repairs on this vehicle. We do regular maintenance and the cost is very reasonable. We get good mileage, a very comfortable drive and it is very quiet. We love this vehicle. It has a lot of room and the back seat folds down when we need to transport something. The trunk area is great to take our dog with us with it is easy to remove and clean floor cover.

Kimberly W on April 3, 2021

It's being used in Vermont and will have to get through lots of weather...

It is roomy and comfortable. Sometimes it doesn't start right, which seems dumb for a new car. It looks nice.

Tracy P on March 31, 2021

The back up camera works really well during the day but at night it's cloudy.

I love the room it has for four people traveling, the sunroof goes back pretty far. It is like a mini SUV high off the ground not like a car which is low to the ground. The eye sight is awesome to know if a car is approaching on either side of you.

Halea S on March 30, 2021

Spacious and reliable family vehicle.

This vehicle is very reliable. The trunk space is large enough for a double stroller or the monthly grocery trip. One downfall of the vehicle is the lack of vents in the back seat. Other than this, the vehicle has been a great source of transportation.

Anna D on March 28, 2021

Love my Subaru forester for its safety features and comfort.

It is a very safe car and comfortable to drive. It handles extremely well in snow. I love it because of all the safety features and the backup camera is very wide. It is great on gas and easy to maintain. It is a comfortable car for passengers too. It has a lot of trunk room and the back seat can be lowered to expand trunk space.

YEEEEboi Z on March 27, 2021

Productivity key to economy – jobs do not matter if not productive. Giles 14.

This is an idea that keeps repeating itself like a bad burrito. And apologies, but a government job guarantee, the idea that the government should just create a job for anyone who has not got one and wants one, really is a terrible idea. Sure, some parts of the idea are to like--full employment is what drives up the workers' wages and rising real wages is what we want, that is the purpose of our having an economy. But straight government hiring, straight government job creation? Nope, a really lousy idea.

Jordyn P on March 27, 2021

The quality of this car is well worth the cost, and I will continue to buy from Subaru for life.

My Forester is not only comfortable, but it is easy to see all around you. It drives so smoothly and has good gas mileage. It has more space than it looks like it can hold. The size of the sunroof is awesome! Plus it has been an amazing 4WD vehicle for snow and off-roading.

anto c on March 26, 2021

Foresters Are Very Awesome

Great and reliable car, all wheel drive for bad weather and still great gas mileage. It's a lease but probably going to keep it.

Kim W on March 25, 2021

Subaru forester is a Vermont car.

It has been very good with its ability to drive in snow and mud in our Vermont town. Sometimes we had issues with starting it and needing the key to be at a certain angle. It looks nice but it also looks like 90% of cars here in Vermont. Everyone has a Subaru; it is extreme.

Nichole M on March 22, 2021

Great family vehicle with room for the dog.

Really good vehicle for family. Use it with 2 car seats and 1 large dog. It is a daily driver and we spend a lot of time in the car. Wish there was more space to store things with my family size but other than that great family vehicle. Had an issue with a sticky brake pad when bought but replaced it all and have had no issues since.

Dani R on March 21, 2021

The Subaru offers great performance in inclement weather.

The Subaru forester has great performance. You get very good mileage and it is perfect to drive in inclement weather. It is very comfortable, fits 5 people without feeling cramped. It is has a spacious back space for packages and groceries. You can accommodate large items too.

kim h on March 17, 2021

It is 4 wheel drive on demand. This is a great safety feature where we live with our dirt roads and the snow we can get.

We just bought this. It is our third Forester. Our last one was 8 years old. I love the 4 wheel drive on demand. I love how it handles in the snow. It has plenty of room in the back to move things.

Candace W on March 17, 2021

How easy it is to drive, it practically drives itself.

It has advanced technology like lane departure warning, backup camera, etc. Love the comfort of the seats and that it has lots of room. It's fun to drive and easy to handle.

Sandie C on March 16, 2021

Suebee cruising my forester is good looking and there isn't anything I don't love.

My suebee is awesome! Love driving it and it is very comfortable to drive. Lots of room in it and love all the bells and whistles. Love the stereo system it has and love having the sunroof and visibility is very good. Acceleration is great and gas mileage is too.

Anika E on March 16, 2021

Subaru forester: the car for comfort and safety.

I love my Subaru forester! This model has many safety features that are amazing for new drivers. The cruise control has a built in feature that slows down when the car in front of you gets too close. Also I really love that my car has heated seats, it makes the winters a little easier. Overall the only negative thing I would say is the gas and brake are very touchy which can make for a jerkier ride.

Makayla B on March 11, 2021

Comfy family car - great for commutes and long trips!

I love my forester! It is got really good gas mileage and I am obsessed with the auto assist/adaptive cruise control. I also love that the back seat is roomy for friends or for taking my dog places as well as the far back has plenty of space for luggage when traveling. This car checks off all of my boxes and I love being able to rely on it to get me where I need to go. If you are looking for a long lasting car that is comfortable and good for couples or families - this is your car!

Norma M on March 11, 2021

I love my Subaru Forester

I've owned a Subaru before and I bought my Forrester in June...it's a nice smooth ride and I am very happy with it. It has heated seats and rear camera which I'd never had before.its roomy and stylish

Amanda B on March 9, 2021

I love the turbo, but miss having navigation.

Great visibility and comfort. I love the xt (turbo) because it is great for driving on the highway. Even though it is an SUV, I still feel cool driving it because it is fast and fun to drive. The premium does not have all the fancy bells and whistles that the touring has, but I do not feel like I am missing out. I do wish it had navigation thought.

Jessie L on March 8, 2021

The Subaru forester is a great car.

There have been a few recalls in the past, but overall it is a great car. It drives really well and I love the backup camera. I cannot imagine driving without a backup camera. The heated seats are also really nice especially during the winter. The steering is really good also. I really like this car and Subaru is a great company with great values.

Am J on March 4, 2021

Safest car on the market today.

My Subaru forester is a very safe car. It sits up a little higher than the outback for better visibility. Like the moonroof and heated seats. No trunk, just a hatchback which can be a problem if traveling but we have a roof rack for a luggage add on.

Ally S on March 2, 2021

Overall a great family car.

The only flaws I have are; changing gears can be funky sometimes. When you go from reverse to drive it can lurch forward or fall back a little bit. I would get a 6 cylinder next time as well for more power. The pros are the inside is very spacious, seats are super comfortable, it is reliable on all terrain, and it has decent gas mileage.

Bert G on February 27, 2021

Subaru car play is very intuitive and helpful.

Performance is great, very spacious so super comfortable, very good features and has all wheel drive. Super reliable and very smooth ride. Subaru play is very intuitive feature that helps you navigate. Performance is fantastic no issues very smooth and non problematic.

Leigh S on February 26, 2021

Subaru's- very dependable!

The 2018 Subaru forester sport is a great vehicle. My car has all the bells and whistles- back up camera, lane assist, seat warmers, automatic seat adjustment, CarPlay, and several modes to adjust for rain and energy efficient driving. The only thing that is a little off putting at first about the vehicle is that the engine turns off when stopped at a stoplight- to save energy. It turns back on as soon as you take your foot off the brake, but it is just a feature you have to get used to.

Danielle B on February 25, 2021

Why the Lexus ES is a good choice to have for a car, and is safe for kids.

Rearview camera, beeps when over the line or getting close to hitting something. Super safe. Comfortable seats that adjust with a button instead of manually. There is also a feature where the side mirror flash when there is someone beside you, so you know when you can change lanes.

Jessica D on February 24, 2021

Loving my 2018 Subaru: Perfect size!

I purchased my subaru in September of 2017. I love this car. The size is perfect for my child and all the sports equipment that we carry around throughout the year.

Jenn B on February 24, 2021

Very safe and reliable vehicle.

The Bluetooth feature cuts in and out occasionally, however the performance of the vehicle has not changed since I got it. I have driven it for long road trips across country and around the city and it is performance has held up throughout both conditions.

di t on February 24, 2021

Big car feel but rides and handles smoothly

Handles very well, visibility very good, smooth ride. Miss not having keyless entry, would have had to upgrade to top model just to get this. No nav which is turning out to be drawback. Miss my side camera.

Cathy B on February 20, 2021

I think gas mileage would surprise most people.

It gets great gas mileage. It has very high safety ratings. It is comfortable for a long commute. I wish I could have afforded leather seats and more options. But I love my Subaru.

Diana A on February 20, 2021

An interesting detail is that is drives very smooth.

It is the perfect size and space. It is a little too aerodynamic because your stomach can become unsettled in windy roads. It is very comfortable, but it has little space in the back. There have been no problems so far. The CD player didn't work for a while but it works now. The air conditioning is great.

Christy D on February 18, 2021

2018 Subaru forester with sunroof!

I have about 30,000 miles on it and have had no problems thus far. It is very comfortable and roomy. However, Does not have a lot of bells and whistles. My main complaint is with the locks. I wish they would automatically lock when I shift to drive, and I wish they would automatically unlock when I open the door to exit the vehicle.

Kate A on February 17, 2021

I like to try and keep it clean, and keep the gas mileage at 29 mpg

I love the amount of room it has. It is great in the snow. The technology.

Marlene R on February 17, 2021

Amazing comfort and reliability.

Absolutely love my Subaru forester the car is spacious and has great cargo space no matter what you are trying to fit in. The built in eyesight feature is great for added safety and security. With having two children space is a must and comfort for long trips helps keep us all at ease.

Colleen C on February 17, 2021

2018 Subaru Forester review: lots of features at a good value.

I love my car. I have owned it 10 months and I have had zero problems. It is fun to drive, it has great visibility, I. E. No blind spots and it is really comfortable. It has a touch screen Audio and phone controls, and Subaru starlink so I can hit a button if I have some emergency, etc.

William T on February 15, 2021

Wonderful SUV, especially on snow and ice.

So far my forester has not had any problems at all. It is wonderful to drive, especially in snow and ice and bad weather in general. Its mileage has been surprisingly good, and it is very comfortable. The only major complaint is that I wish that it had more power. I also find the eyesight feature annoying at times when it is trying to correct my steering.

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.