2019 Subaru Forester Review: Reliable & Comfortable Compact SUV With Low Ownership Costs

Alex Showalter

Dec 16, 2022

The 2019 Subaru Forester lasts around 250,000 miles with only minor battery and windshield issues reported. At $21,275 to $28,325, it’s a good value for a dependable small SUV with an excellent all-wheel drive system.

The Good

The standard all-wheel drive system is great in the snow, safety technology is fantastic and the cabin is roomy.

The Bad

The engine is noisier than other compact SUVs, it’s weaker than the competition and the towing capacity is low.

Is the 2019 Subaru Forester a Good Used SUV?

Overall Rating 8/10 – 2019 is a good year for the Subaru Forester since it pairs reliability with standard all-wheel drive. Owner reviews praise the smooth suspension, advanced safety features, as well as the efficient engine.
Interior, Comfort & Cargo 8/10 – Interior materials are well-made, the seats are comfortable with plenty of cushioning, cargo space is also good for a compact SUV.
Reliability 8/10 – There are no major problems with the 2018 Forester. Avoid models from 2014–2015 since they have engine problems while 2016–2022 are more reliable.
Performance 6/10 – Performance is poor from the 4-cylinder engine which focuses more on efficiency rather than power.
Safety 10/10 – The 2019 Subaru Forester is very safe, earning a perfect 5-star rating in government crash tests. Standard safety features include adaptive cruise control, rearview camera, forward collision warning, along with automatic emergency braking. Optional upgrades include adaptive headlights as well as driver attention monitoring.
Gas Mileage 8/10 – Fuel economy is good at up to 29 MPG, giving 481 miles of range from the 16.6 gallon tank. Gas costs are $66 cheaper than average at $167 per month.
Value 9/10 – The 2019 Subaru Forester is pricey, although it holds value well, making it a good long-term proposition.

Positive Owner Reviews

Joan L

Highly efficient and cost effective.

The suv that we own is a subaru forester limited. It is very safe, easy to use and highly fuel efficient especially on long interstate drives. It is also spacious and is able to sit us comfortably even with a car seat in place. It also is big enough to carry furniture around.

Hannah B

My Subaru forester review.

The Subaru forester is absolutely amazing. It is safe and super easy to drive. I love all the safety features from back up camera, keeping you in your lane, to pre breaking collision as well as the great sound system, heated seats, open lift gate and huge sunroof.

Lori M

The reliable big red adventure.

I love Subaru vehicles, they are reliable, attractive and come with a variety of options. They are comfortable to drive and depending on the make and model have really good pick up. I have had problems with connectivity (phone to car) at times, but it has not been a big deal.

Shradha S

Great car but fix the back seat angle.

The Subaru forester is a great car for families and inexperienced drivers as it aids in safety and is relatively simple to function. The seats are comfortable and soft, the mobility of the driver seat is wonderful for most heights and lengths. However the back seats of the car are not as set forward, it is at a backwards leaning angle and it can be quite annoying to sit on as a passenger.

Gail J J

I said everything on previous screen.

Very comfortable to drive with good visibility. Many safety features, warning lights and sounds. Still have to look everything up in manual to figure out how to make changes and even with manual some changes are difficult. Gas mileage is good. Love the backup camera. Controls are very accessible even if I do not always know what to do with them.

Ashley R

I love my forester, and I would recommend it.

Great ride, smooth, great turn radius, visibility, height, space in cabin, and engine performance. Very durable car, very easy to maneuver. Great for people of all sizes. Great gas mileage for the size, I get almost 27 miles per gallon. 10/10 would recommend.

Savanna L

Sub forester 2019 sport edition.

Perfect vehicle for any outdoor adventure! Wanna go camping? Plenty of room is included, heated seats, sunroof with a perfect view, sports edition was my choice (can you blame me). If you're looking for the perfect sporty vehicle, you've found it! Ice silver was my color choice.

Brooke L

I have always wanted a moon roof it is just a perk to an already great car.

My forester is almost a year old and I still love everything about it. I have owned 2 subaru’s in my life and will only ever own a Subaru. It is reliable and safe for our growing family. It rides smooth and is comfortable for longer trips. Also does well on gas for a crossover.

Negative Owner Reviews

Thomas

Camera Broke Already

I have had the 2019 forester sport not even 3 months and brought into the shop for Eye Sight Indicator issue. They tell me they have to order a new camera not happy.

Lincoln Millstein

Dangerous car

This was the third Subaru I owned. It has a bad design flaw which is dangerous. The right rear roof support looks just like the front grill of an oncoming car. So many times I’ve attempted a lane change but pulled back. Subaru customer service had no solutions.. Buy an Outback if you must have a Subaru. The entertainment package is also a disaster but that’s another story...

Navigation System SUCKS!!!

Won't let you enter addresses like a normal NAV system. Must enter everything in a search box and the searches are usually unsuccessful even for common points of interest and street names. Voice recognition is awful and completely useless. Paid 1500 for top of the line NAV system and ot is complete GARBAGE!

Peter Warburton Shih

2019 Forester is a Disappointment!

I’ve been driving the Forester Touring model for 6 months and just went to my Connecticut dealer for the 6000 mile service just last week. Let me first say that the dealer is terrific. The tailgate has been a continuing problem as it doesn’t always open and now opens less than one foot and must be then manually pushed up. I’m told that you must hold the open button for 8+ seconds to force it to open. Dealer ordered a part which hopefully will be fixed by next week. Meanwhile, the hazard light is also not working. Although the engine was reported to be delivering more horsepower, it is noisy and labors until it reaches about 30mph. The 2019 Honda CRV is quieter and peppier. Steering was extraordinarily squirrelly and I asked the service manager to check it out. Apparently the “Vehicle Dynamics Control” system was in “on mode” and interfered with my steering. This feature as well as “Eyesight” is something I could and prefer to do without. What I could use are garage openers as standard equipment. I’m told that I can install a special mirror with garage opener buttons at a cost of several hundred dollars. My previous car was a Toyota Forerunner Limited with factory garage opener buttons that I bought new in 2003 and ran it for over 250,000 miles. I now seriously regret not going with Toyota or Honda.

Lon6

Seats are horrible..

Love the Forester, ride,handling and economy will allways impress me, and, thiers impressive power for hills.highway.. The down side, seats are terrible for long drivesi in Touring model. Drove from Calgary AB to Crescent city California...and back.. Seats are garbage....on long drives..

Jim W

Radio problems

I have almost 11,000 miles on my new Forrester. Very frustrated with radio issues, specifically that it continually loses the station presets. Appears there are many complaints about this and has been an issue for a long time.

Brenda M

Subaru forester needs to fix headlights.

Pros:starts easy, looks nice. Like doors locking automatically. Glove department is a decent size, as is the console. The backup guides on the camera are very helpful. The hooks inside the cargo area are helpful to hang groceries on and keep them in place. The automatic cargo door is helpful in opening and closing. Cons: the headlights are a nightmare. They do not project high enough to see road signs. They will not go to bright in totally dark situations.

Aly K

Subaru forester review for families.

Does not ride as nicely as the outback. Louder road noise. The screen also is not as nice as my previous outback. The car is very reliable and has not had any issues to date. It is a good family car but could be small for older kids. Will trade it in when able.

What Do Critics Say About the Subaru Forester?

Consumer Reports says the 2019 Subaru Forester is an excellent small SUV with a roomy interior and high owner satisfaction scores.
Edmunds rates the Forester at 4/5, praising the great all-wheel drive system, but doesn’t like the weak engine.
Kelley Blue Book users give the Forester a 4.5/5, enjoying the excellent fuel efficiency, but owners don’t like the low 1,500 pound towing capacity.

What Common Problems Does the 2019 Subaru Forester Have?

Common problems found on the 2019 Subaru Forester include excessive battery drain, Bluetooth connectivity issues, as well as windshields which chip easily. Overall, these issues are relatively minor compared to other small SUVs, leading to lower repair costs, too.

Excessive battery drain is the most widespread complaint from 2019 Subaru Forester owners at around 10,000 miles. There are a lot of electrical accessories in modern cars which sometimes drain the battery even when it’s off. Diagnosing the excessive battery drain costs around $150, while a new battery is about $250. Some owners also replace it with a larger battery, which costs around $440.

Bluetooth connectivity issues have also been reported by Forester owners in the first 5,000 miles. There is a software update for the stereo system which improves the reliability of the Bluetooth connection. Most dealers will install the update for free, while others charge around $50.

Windshields, which chip easily are another issue mentioned by owners at 6,000 miles. There are some batches of windshields which are weaker than others, leading to them chipping and cracking easily. Replacing the windshield costs around $650. We also recommend avoiding following too closely, especially on rocky roads, to prevent damage to the windshield.

There are 3 recalls on the 2019 Subaru Forester, which is similar to other small SUVs. The most serious recall covers the rear stabilizer bolts, which can detach and allow the suspension to come loose. Subaru will retorque and replace any bolts on affected models. Other recalls cover a broken PCV valve, as well as the electronic power steering assistance system. Subaru will replace and repair those parts for free as well.

How Long Will the 2019 Subaru Forester Last?

A well-maintained 2019 Subaru Forester can last around 250,000 miles, which is only about 50,000 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 $438 per year.

As a used 2019 Subaru Forester reaches 100,000 miles, owners should be prepared to replace the axle boots for $250, spark plugs costing $450, as well as the serpentine belt, which costs $185.

Jennifer C

I feel that the forester is very reliable. I have not had any problems as of yet. I have not had to use any of the drive features.

Stacy S

The car does not have any problems. It runs well. Gas mileage is decent. I like the CarPlay feature.

j b

No problems. 100% totally reliable. It has not had any mechanical or design problems. But I have to say I would expect that from any 2019 new car.

Amanda O

Yes, I haven't had any problems and know that this vehicle will last a long time because Subaru is known for being reliable.

Camille B

The wipers are kind of iffy but that is an easy fix. I would say it is a very reliable car, Subarus overall are known to be very reliable. That is why so many people in Vermont for example have them.

Cheri c

None at all. I have almost 19,000 miles in a year. I have had to replace two windshields due to rocks hitting it on the interstate and the windshield cracking all the way across.

John A

Yes it is. It has given me no good problem this time round or at any time in the process of driving this car.

Izaak M

It is very reliable and I really enjoy driving it I have only had a couple of problems with the radio.

How Is the Technology?

Entertainment technology is very good with a standard 6.5-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. There’s an optional larger 8-inch touchscreen system available as well.

Safety technology is fantastic for a compact SUV. Subaru’s Eyesight safety system is standard. It includes a rearview camera, adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, along with lane keep assist. Optional upgrades include automatic high-beam headlights, blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert, driver attention monitoring, as well as reverse automatic emergency braking.

Is the 2019 Subaru Forester a Good Value?

Yes, the 2019 Subaru Forester is a good value for great reliability paired with all of the safety technology. The blue book fair purchase price ranges from $21,275 to $28,325, making it more than a Mazda CX-5 or Nissan Rogue. When new, the price range was $24,295 to $34,295. Depreciation is better than other SUVs, only losing about 5% of its current value per year.

What are the Different Models of the Subaru Forester?

There are five models of the Subaru Forester offered in 2019, from the entry-level Base, all the way up to the well-equipped Touring. The Forester also comes standard with all-wheel drive, which is great in the snow and dirt.

Base is the entry-level model with:

17-Inch Steel Wheels
Cloth Seating
Automatic LED Headlights
Rearview Camera
Push-Button Start
Bluetooth
5-Inch Touchscreen
Satellite Radio
Four-Speaker Audio System
Subaru Eyesight Safety System

Premium is a step up, adding:

17-Inch Alloy Wheels
Roof Rails
Panoramic Sunroof
Rear Spoiler
Hill Descent Control
Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel
Power-Adjustable Driver’s Seat
Rear Air Vents
Six-Speaker Audio System

Sport has additional features such as:

18-Inch Black Painted Wheels
LED Foglights
Keyless Entry
Rear Roof Spoiler
Orange Interior and Exterior Accents
Steering Wheel-Mounted Paddle Shifters

Limited offers good upgrades like:

Adaptive Headlights
Leather Upholstery
Dual-Zone Automatic Climate Control
Power Liftgate
8-Inch Touchscreen

Touring is the flagship model which has:

LED Foglights
Heated Steering Wheel
DriverFocus System
Heated Rear Seats
Nine-Speaker Harmon Kardon Premium Audio System

Base

182 HP 29 MPG

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Premium

182 HP 29 MPG

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Sport

182 HP 29 MPG

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Limited

182 HP 29 MPG

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Touring

182 HP 29 MPG

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What Engines Come In the Subaru Forester?

The engine found in the 2018 Subaru Forester is a relatively weak 2.5L 4-cylinder which makes 182 horsepower while getting up to 29 MPG. It’s paired with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). Performance is slow, taking 8.5 seconds to go from 0-60 MPH.

What Colors Does the Subaru Forester Come In?

How Comfortable Is the Subaru Forester?

The 2019 Subaru Forester is a very comfortable compact SUV with seating for up to five passengers. Seating offers very comfortable padding with soft cloth or leather options which hold up well over time.

Passenger room is excellent throughout the cabin with enough legroom for taller adults in the rear seats.

How Much Storage Space Does the Subaru Forester Have?

Cargo space is good for a compact SUV, although it’s not as large as some of the competition. There’s enough room for 6-8 suitcases behind the rear seat, and around 15 with the seats folded flat.

What Are the Differences Between Years?

The fifth generation of the Subaru Forester was launched in 2019.

2015: Rearview camera standard on all models, 18-inch wheels available.

2016: New stereo system with 6.2 or 7-inch touchscreens depending on the model.

2017: EyeSight safety system updated with lane departure intervention.

2018: Black edition launched with dark trim and wheels.

2019: Fully redesigned for the fifth generation with more room, a stronger engine, as well as better safety technology.

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

2021: Automatic high beams are standard on all models.

How Does the Subaru Forester Compare to the Competition?

The Subaru Forester is a great compact SUV, offering excellent safety technology, good reliability scores, along with a strong all-wheel drive system.

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 offers a more responsive driving experience. We recommend the Subaru Outback since the extra money is worth it for the added practicality.

The Toyota RAV4 is a compact competitor which costs around $2,000 more. Performance is better in the Toyota RAV4 with its stronger engines, while the Subaru Forester’s standard all-wheel drive system is better in the snow. We recommend the Toyota RAV4, although both are very good compact SUVs worth taking a look at.

Ranks #3 Compact SUV by Owners

2019 MINI Countryman

4.75

2019 Kia Niro

4.74

2019 Subaru Forester

4.72

Do Owners Recommend the Subaru Forester?

Jennifer C

Yes. My Subaru drives well and has great safety features. I love how it handles in inclement weather.

Stacy S

Yes. It has a lot of features to increase safe driving. Handles well in rain and snow. Very spacious backseat. Trunk is also very spacious. I like the push to open/close trunk button.

j b

Yes, love it a lot. Handles great in bad weather, and gravel road, rugged yet refined. Great interior features and infotainment system too.

Amanda O

Yes, it is great on gas and is big enough for a family of four. It has nice upgrades like adaptive cruise control and heated seats. It is a safe vehicle due to lane assist and eyesight.

Camille B

Yes, absolutely love it. I feel safe driving it in all sorts of weather and it is the perfect size for traveling as the trunk provides a lot of space. I also just love the way it looks.

Cheri c

Yes! I love this vehicle-the gas mileage, the safety features, the comfort inside the vehicle plus we have hauled lots of stuff in this vehicle-it does it all.

John A

Yes it is, it is very much a quality of something great. It has great drive and good features, as it has a four wheel drive.

Izaak M

It is an excellent vehicle. I love its handling ride acceleration quietness and versatility. It has a lot of storage to. It is the perfect car for young family.

Owner Reviews

Write a Review

Richard on February 16, 2023

Head gasket problem

We own 2019 Forester.It has 35,000 miles on it. Coolant magically disappears. Subaru dealership checked it over and said nothing was wrong. Pretty sure it's a head gasket.

emily B on June 25, 2021

Good, standard, reliable family ride.

I like my vehicle in terms of basics: does great in winter driving, good gas mileage, good price, comfortable. I dislike how it looks. I want something more unique, vibrant, fun. This could easily be solved by cooler colors. Also, the upgraded models have a great orange thread trim in the otherwise black interior that really stand out. We got ours used so we didn't have that option.

Mauricio S on June 18, 2021

Fun, comfortable family hauler.

Overall it is very reliable, has great room for our family of four and we love the gas mileage. We also love the looks of the exterior, it is very sporty. As for the interior, we love how it looks rugged while still feeling like very comfortable. We really like the stitching and the combination of leather with the neoprene. The oversized sunroof is great and one of the favorite parts of the car for the kids. They love to be able to look out of it at night when the moon is out. Cargo room in the back is very adequate and the bonus roof rails are a huge plus. We've been able to bring larger items on the roof with just the use of some smaller bungee cords. The car handles great and can be fun to drive by switching it to the paddle shifting manual mode.

Jennifer J on June 11, 2021

Subaru forester - amazing vehicle!

No problems! Very reliable! Lots of room. Handles great, easy to get in and out of. Hatchback makes it super convenient for loading and unloading. Visibility is great, lots of windows and amazing sunroof. Handles really well in the snow and slick or wet roads. Very safe vehicle.

Amanda R on June 10, 2021

2019 Subaru forester sport edition is super stylish.

The Subaru forester sport edition vehicle seems very reliable and drives very well, however it is not very fast for a sport car, and the acceleration is not very quick, but it is comfortable, stylish, pretty good on gas, has lots of room, and has up to date technology. It also has lots of safety features.

Ogbemi A on June 3, 2021

Very reliable, affordable, and attractive vehicle.

A very reliable vehicle. Great gas mileage. The road handling is awesome especially with the added feature of the x sport. The size of the vehicle is perfect for when we go camping or taking the pets out or even shopping. Honestly, I'd say this one of the best vehicles I have ever owned. It was affordable and well worth the purchase. I would suggest this for families or single people. It's a gorgeous car on the outside and has all the bells and whistles on the inside.

Bernie R on May 27, 2021

It is a very new, innovative, family, and safety car.

The safety of the vehicle is impeccable, I feel extremely safe letting go of the wheel on the highway. There are not many issues with the vehicle. The amount of miles you get per gallon is great as well. It fits all of my children. It has a good amount of space and it automatically detects when you get into the vehicle.

Kiely S on May 27, 2021

Camping and traveling for the win!

I have had my forester for almost a year and a half now and I have nothing but wonderful things to say about it. A few of the premium features in my model include heated front seats, a full-sized moon roof, lane correction, and—my personal favorite—adaptive cruise control. These features alone are enough to hook me for life, but the 2019 forester just keeps giving. I love how spacious the backseat leg space is, even when the front seats are almost all the way back. My 6’3” husband can sit comfortably behind my 5’10” self when I am driving without his knees in his chest. There is plenty of space for our car camping setup, and we can easily fit a full 5 adults into the vehicle along with our two large dogs in the hatchback area. 10/10 would recommend, and will likely drive it into the ground before I trade in for anything other than a Subaru forester.

April F on May 17, 2021

Great car for the outdoor lover. Will buy again and again!

Great performance and style. The stock tires wore too fast (not due to driver). I like the roominess and clean lines in the interior. Great for the outdoors with its x mode. Hard rubber floor mats are a nice inclusion considering the outdoor lifestyle. Good resale value for years to come.

Maggie D on May 13, 2021

2019 Subaru forester, great car!

I love my forester, I have great visibility of the road and it is very comfortable. I also really like the cars computer/radio interface it gives me great options to play music, take calls and display my phones GPS app for hands free directions. The size of the car is really convenient for my family.

Daniela J on May 13, 2021

Best Subaru compact SUV ever.

The best car I have ever purchased. Really beautifully designed. The sport trim is very attractive with the orange stitching, partial leather/cloth interior. The only things that would make it better are: change the accent color from orange to red, offer all black interior, and bring back the turbo!

Steven M on May 12, 2021

Buy Subaru - you cannot go wrong!

The new Subaru with lane-assist and the cruise control upgrades are awesome - especially in high traffic areas. The seats and a/c make it comfortable, and in the winter the seats are heated which is an added bonus. I had my previous forester for 16 yrs before I traded and I expect this one to last just as long.

Sarah C on May 11, 2021

It is extremely slick in appearance.

My car has excellent power. We've taken it off roaring several times and it had handled everything we've thrown at it. The tires have held up really well against punishment on forest roads and we take it backwoods camping and it is done very well. It is extremely comfortable and the heated seats are a must. I would absolutely buy this car again if I had to make the decision again.

Amanda B on May 9, 2021

Subaru has outdone itself on its key features.

I am quite happy with my Subaru forester. My gas mileage is fantastic! I never have to use chains in the snow. There is plenty of room for taking trips with the family (lots of legroom as well). I enjoy the features the car has. I especially enjoy its safety features for making sure the car is always at a safe distance, and notification sounds for emergency braking. The only disappointing factor is the seats of the vehicle are not as luxury comfortable as I would like for long trips. After about 3 hours of driving, the seats feel quite firm. This is especially uncomfortable if you are pregnant or have back issues. However, the seats in this vehicle are large enough to fit those who are not of average size, so the firm seats are not that big of a deal for my family.

Trinity H on April 29, 2021

This car is perfect for anybody, so many features that make your life easy!

Amazing car, I love how many feature it has and how easy everything is in it. The back and front seats are both very spacious and comfortable. This car can go anywhere and does great in sport mode! My only wish is that it had more horsepower, but of course I knew that when I purchased it. I highly suggest this car for any couple or family that wants a vehicle that can handle any situation and that is convenient.

Pat S on April 25, 2021

We love our 2019 forester!

We love our 2019 Subaru forester! The ride is smooth regardless of street or weather conditions - both of which can be suspect living in Chicago. We made the leap to Subaru about a year ago and have not looked back. One of the few downsides is that leather interior upgrades were not available in anything but the higher trim packages.

Dave B on April 9, 2021

2019 Subaru forester review.

For while there was a software update needed, all channels on radio would keep resetting. Also had instance where dog blanket got caught in back hatch and drained battery overnight. Wasn't much of warning that back wasn't completely latched. No other issues that we've had.

Savannah D on April 4, 2021

Subaru forester makes travel with dogs very comfortable.

The Subaru forester is the perfect vehicle for pet owners. The amount of space is great for my dogs and leaves enough room for luggage. The AWD makes the vehicle feel safe and the panoramic sunroof is an excellent feature. The seats are comfortable and the amount of added features (heated seats, apple carplay, safety detection, etc) make driving this vehicle daily a lot more comfortable.

Belinda F on March 29, 2021

Comfortable, but could be designed better.

It handles well, but the electronic features that I bought it for have issues sometimes. Especially the apple CarPlay. It is pretty comfortable for long drives, but the aircon vents are not calibrated right and it comes out of the side vents much stronger than anywhere else.

Lily H on March 27, 2021

Eyesight feature has gas and brake assist.

The 2019 Subaru Forester is a 4 out of 5 for me. This is because the cars safety features are too safe! The eyesight feature is good, until there is traffic on the highway, and then the cars pre-collision feature turns on automatically. This is not good because the car slams on the brakes without warning and way too soon. This causes the brakes to wear down very fast.

John A on March 26, 2021

Just the rearward camera to see where you are parking and turning.

The touring model of the Subaru forester has all the great aspects. Four wheel drive, camera to see when you reverse. It is just a nice car in general. The performance is great and it gets very good mileage. It is just the best car to have right now.

Shannon L on March 25, 2021

Thumbs up on this vehicle.

Car drives smooth, gas mileage is great. Perfect size car with kids. Great for road trips and long drives. Great in snow, eyesight in car is also a plus. Nice moon roof, trunk space is decent while the back seats can fold down. Lots of back space for backseat passengers. Actually pretty comfortable car overall.

Zoey M on March 22, 2021

It is the safety features for me.

I moved to Colorado from Texas and fell in love with my friends Subaru so much so that I bought one. I get great gas mileage, the safety features are amazing. From the lane assist, brake assist, and auto adjusting cruise control you will not be disappointed.

Renee B on March 20, 2021

2019 Forester Sport Review

It rides smooth, is quiet on the highway, good gas mileage for an SUV. It has a lot of bells and whistles to learn, however. It takes getting used to the auto hold when stopped. I love the sport look and feel! I wish the sunroof would open a few different ways rather than just open or closed.

Danny K on March 19, 2021

A mostly great SUV that is fun and safe to drive.

It is very roomy inside compared to the rav4 and CR-V. I also like the safety and reliability that Subaru brings but it stands out in the crowded SUV market. As for dislikes. I had an issues with the rear hatch not opening but was fixed under warranty. The stereo sounds great but cannot play an album in track order via USB. It plays it alphabetically. I also dislike that not all the interior and exterior lights are cool led (some are warm led) and the sunroof button is the only button that does not light up!

Liyuan H on March 18, 2021

The greatest radio and surround sounding.

This car is comfortable riding on for a ride, and is great driving for a driver. The seats are in nicely and the motor starts up fast. The radio is also very nice in the car, so is the sounding. The seats are cushioned and very comfortable to sit and drive in.

Felipe R on March 9, 2021

Subaru has the best all wheel drive vehicles in the market.

The only actual issue I have with the vehicle is when you are engaged into adaptive cruise control and the vehicle is set to a higher speed than it is currently traveling, when the lane becomes clear, the vehicle will accelerate a bit harshly and uncomfortably. Otherwise, the vehicle is reliable, comfortable, fuel efficient specially for an all wheel drive SUV, as well as spacious and very convenient and easy to live with. I am really happy with my purchase.

Emily W on March 6, 2021

Best road trip vehicle of the year.

It's a great daily car, I go hiking a lot and it is four wheel drive and perfect for windy and icy roads up in the mountains. Lots of room in the car, for all the gear (hiking or snowshoeing) plus all my guests. The comfort of the car is great and I drive long trips quite frequently. It performs great and gets relatively good gas mileage for an SUV.

Tami B on March 5, 2021

Subaru is a great value and safe.

Drives great. Roomy. Low maintenance. Excellent crash rating. Was hit from behind while stopped. Other driver never braked. Car minimized shock to me. My Forrester was drivable. Other car had so much front end damage it had to be towed. I am on my 3rd Subaru and plan to continue with this manufacturer's cars in the future.

Brenda M on March 5, 2021

Subaru forester needs to fix headlights.

Cassandra T on March 3, 2021

Fun, comfortable and affordable vehicle.

I have had zero issues with this vehicle. It is comfortable to drive and I love it. The sport trim also looks really nice and it is pretty fun to drive. The breaks are very responsive and it turns on a dime for being a good sized vehicle. I honestly have nothing bad to say about it.

Kendall H on February 28, 2021

Lots of safety features. Hatch has a good amount of problems.

My favorite things about my car are as follows: I love the interior. I have black and white seats which I love and the whole inside just looks very sleek and new. There are a lot of safety features as well. I have a lot of problems with my hatch opening which has been a huge pain recently.

Camille M on February 23, 2021

Subaru Forester premium 2019

No vehicle problems as of yet. The car is only a month old. One thing that I wish was different is the infotainment screen. It's really small compared to my old car. It also buffers sometimes. Another feature that bothers me a little bit is that the back windows do not go all the way Down

Anthony J on February 21, 2021

Subaru forester, a brief overview.

The vehicle is very reliable and comfy. The windows are large and make seeing the road very easy. The black color of my car is spectacular and really pops after a nice car wash. The style of the rims I am not fond of but those could be swapped out anytime.

Aly K on February 18, 2021

Subaru forester review for families.

Nathanael I on February 8, 2021

Good little wagon, a couple nitpicks.

Overall we really like the forester, it rides comfortably and it drives fairly sporty for its size. We like the large sunroof. Some problems I would mention are an overly sensitive eyesight module that occasionally will start breaking because of traffic in the opposite lane and too many distracting alert sounds that constantly go off during driving.

Kelley S on February 7, 2021

It is small and gets pretty good gas mileage

My Subaru forester is my favorite vehicle. It is comfortable and has a lot of room in the back for my children. I love the drive assist features. It almost drives itself while on the highway.The 'Truck' is small but it works for daily commuting. The sport features are a bonus, plus it makes it the best looking forester on the road.

Kay B on February 2, 2021

Smooth ride, easy to drive. Smart car features.

Smooth ride, like the sport feature. Gas mileage is okay. Set higher than the Crosstrek so easier to see. I like the blind spot feature and lane shift feature. Wish it came in all leather it is a mix of fabric and leather. Like the all black tires and rims.

Charlie R on January 31, 2021

A car that is almost perfect.

The Subaru sport is an amazing car with a very slick interior and a slick trim. The only thing I have come across is sometimes it is a bit loud and I wouldn't recommend the automatic back foot open. Keep it manual. Sometimes it does not open up and it is honestly just such a pain when getting groceries.

Jason S on January 30, 2021

The best car you didn't know you could afford.

The forester is a comfortable driving machine. It not only exceeds expectations in all weather conditions, but takes on any challenges the road throws at it. There are few cars that come even close to its comfort. Performance is exceptional, and lives up to it is reputation.

Sue B on January 27, 2021

My 1st Subaru is safe and comfortable.

Love everything except for the front windshield is angled so that it is super hot when the sun's out. Have had trouble with the rear liftgate not opening. The interior is very comfortable. I like all the safety features and the packing cruise control.

Jamie W on January 25, 2021

It is the safest car out there!

It is very detailed and comfortable on the inside. It is rides very smoothly. It holds well on gas, meaning the money you put into the gas tank goes along way. The interior is high-quality and I do like that the technology in it is up-to-date. I wouldn't say there’s a whole ton of problems. I actually, since it is recently bought, haven't noticed any problems.

Gwenn M on January 25, 2021

Subaru forester sport is fun, peppy and reliable.

My Subaru forester is my favorite vehicle I have owned to date. The sport package is eye catching and unique both inside and out, and the seats are very comfortable. The windshield design provides maximum visibility and the headlights are really bright - both of these are great for night driving, which I struggle with. It gets great gas mileage, yet has a punchy acceleration and is super fun to drive. I also love the extended sunroof and excellent sound system. I have not had any performance issues with this vehicle whatsoever and feel confident taking it long distances.

Pamela J on January 22, 2021

2019 Subaru forester sport.

The 2019 Subaru forester is a fantastic vehicle. It has plenty of space and the openness of the car is great. The car is spacious and the windows and windshield are huge. The trunk is a great size for carrying luggage or hauling sports equipment for your kids. It gets good gas mileage and the sport package has a sleek and edgy look. My only complaint is that the cup holders in between the front seats are too far back. They are not comfortable to use when driving. I highly recommend the Subaru forester!

Jennifer B on January 18, 2021

A great reliable comfortable car.

Not much I dislike. My mirror on sun visor (driver side) broke. I do not like the center console wish there was a space big enough to put my phone & a phone changing pad would be great. I also wish the trunk was a bit bigger. Overall a great car very reliable and comfortable.

Linda F on January 17, 2021

Subaru s are pretty great cars.

We love our Subaru. This is the fourth one we have leased. It is easy and fun to drive. We have never had difficulty in the snow due to the all-wheel drive. The 2019 model does require you to use your iPhone to use the GPS. I think I would rather have the GPS built into the car itself.

rick B on January 13, 2021

Great car, great features and reliability!

Great ride, acceleration and safe driving technology. Leather seats heated steering wheel, great sound system and very roomy! Night driving lights very good and overall a wonderful dream care to drive. This is my first Subaru and all the hype of owner loyalty and reliability sure seem right on.

Joshua N on January 12, 2021

Smart cruise control is perfect for family road trips.

Having put roughly eighteen thousand miles on this car, I can say that it has met my expectations. On the highway it gets about 28 mpg and about 25 in the city. My favorite feature of this car would have to be the smart cruise control, it is perfect for long road trips.

Deb A on January 9, 2021

Subaru forester is the right choice.

I love my car. It is a bright, open, airy vehicle. It handles extremely well in snow and bad weather. There’s a lot of up-to-date, modern amenities. The radio, sound system are amazing. It has plenty of storage and the seats fold down. Having all wheel drive all of the time is a relief when the weather turns bad, fast.

Ryan B on January 4, 2021

It is a reliable with a lot of space in it.

Pros: camera for reversing car. Warning if I leave my lane or someone is getting to close. A lot of room on the inside. Big trunk with lower seats. Tall off the ground. Stock sound system is good. Con: gas is not the best. Do not like the auto brake system but it can be turned off.

Raquel S on December 27, 2020

Subaru forester 2019 overall review.

I absolutely love my Subaru!! It is very smooth to drive, and it is many base fair tires are so helpful. The alerts it gives me when I am drifting out of a lane are super helpful and I love the automated cruise control it incorporates to keep me from even drifting. The mirrors are excellent, I can see almost everything and the blind spot is relatively small. The lights on the side of the mirrors are super helpful when letting me know if there is a car in my blind spot. I have never had any issues with my Subaru, I highly recommend. It is also one of the most comfortable cars I have ever sat and drove in, makes road trips even better comfort wise!! I love the sound system, and the apple CarPlay feature is super awesome and easy to maneuver. Once again, I love my Subaru!

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.