Are Subaru Foresters Good Cars in Australia?

Yes, Subaru Foresters are generally good cars in Australia, particularly for families, commuters, outdoor enthusiasts and drivers who regularly travel on country roads. With standard all-wheel drive, generous ground clearance, excellent visibility and a practical interior, the Subaru Forester offers a combination of qualities that many competing SUVs struggle to match.

However, does that mean the Forester is the best SUV for every Australian driver? Not necessarily.

Although Subaru has built a strong reputation for capable and durable vehicles, Forester ownership comes with a few compromises. Fuel consumption can be higher than some competitors, servicing deserves careful consideration, and certain older models have experienced mechanical problems.

The latest generation, introduced in Australia in 2025 as the MY26 Forester, also brings a significantly improved hybrid option.

In this guide, we'll examine Subaru Forester reliability in Australia, driving performance, common problems, fuel efficiency, safety, maintenance expenses and whether buying a new or used Forester makes financial sense.

Are Subaru Foresters Reliable in Australia?

The Subaru Forester has a generally positive reputation for reliability, although its dependability depends heavily on the model year, maintenance history and how the vehicle has been driven.

One of the main attractions is Subaru's naturally aspirated Boxer engine. Unlike a smaller turbocharged engine, the conventional petrol Forester uses a relatively straightforward engine configuration without a turbocharger.

That doesn't automatically make it more reliable, but it removes one potential source of mechanical complexity.

Many Australian owners choose Foresters because they want a vehicle capable of handling daily commuting, family holidays and occasional trips along unsealed roads.

How Long Do Subaru Foresters Last?

A well-maintained Subaru Forester can potentially travel 200,000–300,000 kilometres or more.

However, reaching those distances is not guaranteed.

Long-term durability depends on several factors:

• Following the manufacturer's servicing schedule.
• Using the recommended engine oil and fluids.
• Addressing cooling system problems promptly.
• Maintaining the continuously variable transmission (CVT).
• Keeping all four tyres in suitable condition.
• Avoiding excessive towing loads.
• Checking for developing oil leaks and unusual noises.

A Forester that has travelled 180,000 kilometres with complete maintenance records may represent a better purchase than one showing 100,000 kilometres with neglected servicing.

For Australian buyers, we recommend prioritising maintenance history over mileage alone.

Why Are Subaru Foresters Popular in Australia?

Australia presents driving conditions that can be challenging for conventional family vehicles.

Drivers may encounter everything from congested city streets to wet highways, gravel roads, steep driveways and rural tracks.

The Forester is designed to handle this variety without requiring buyers to purchase a large four-wheel-drive vehicle.

1. Standard All-Wheel Drive

One of the Forester's biggest advantages is Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system.

Unlike many medium SUVs that primarily drive their front wheels, the Forester sends power through an AWD system designed to improve traction across changing road surfaces.

This can be particularly helpful when driving on:

• Wet highways.
• Gravel roads.
• Slippery rural driveways.
• Mountain roads.
• Uneven camping tracks.
• Roads affected by loose stones or mud.

AWD does not eliminate the risk of losing traction, and it cannot replace suitable tyres or careful driving. Nevertheless, the system provides an advantage for drivers who regularly encounter variable surfaces.

2. Excellent Ground Clearance

The current Australian Subaru Forester offers approximately 220 mm of ground clearance.

This is generous for a medium family SUV.

It helps when navigating steep driveways, uneven tracks, potholes and rough camping access roads.

However, the Forester remains a road-biased SUV rather than a traditional heavy-duty 4WD. Its suspension, tyres, underbody protection and overall design impose limitations on difficult off-road routes.

3. Practical Interior Design

The Forester has traditionally prioritised practicality over dramatic interior styling.

Its relatively upright body, large windows and accessible seating position make it appealing to families.

We particularly appreciate the emphasis on outward visibility.

In a market where many SUVs feature narrow rear windows and thick body pillars, the Forester's design makes everyday manoeuvring comparatively straightforward.

Subaru Forester Pros and Cons

Before deciding whether to buy one, it's worth comparing the Forester's main strengths and weaknesses.

Overall, we believe the Forester's advantages are particularly relevant to Australian drivers who value versatility over outright performance.

Subaru Forester Engine Reliability

The engine is one of the most important considerations when evaluating Forester reliability.

Over the years, Subaru has used several petrol, turbocharged, diesel and hybrid powertrains.

Their reliability histories should not be treated as identical.

2.5-Litre Boxer Petrol Engine

The conventional latest-generation Forester uses a naturally aspirated 2.5-litre four-cylinder Boxer engine.

In Australian MY26 specification, it produces approximately 136 kW and 247 Nm.

Its strengths include predictable power delivery, suitable everyday performance and no turbocharger to maintain.

However, some buyers may find its acceleration less impressive than that of turbocharged alternatives.

The engine can also become noticeably louder when accelerating hard, partly because of the way the CVT allows engine speed to rise.

For ordinary commuting, highway travel and family use, its performance is generally sufficient.

Subaru Forester Hybrid Engine

The MY26 Forester introduces a stronger hybrid system than the previous generation's mild-hybrid arrangement.

It combines a 2.5-litre Boxer petrol engine with an electric motor to produce a combined system output of approximately 145 kW.

The biggest improvements are fuel efficiency and smoother low-speed operation.

Unlike a plug-in hybrid, the Forester Hybrid does not need to be connected to an external charger.

Which Subaru Forester Is Most Reliable? Best Years

Its battery is charged through the vehicle's operation and regenerative braking.

However, because this stronger hybrid system is relatively new to Australia, we cannot yet claim that it has demonstrated the same long-term reliability as older Subaru petrol powertrains.

That will become clearer as more vehicles accumulate significant kilometres.

Common Subaru Forester Problems in Australia

No vehicle is completely free from faults, and Subaru Foresters are no exception.

When researching used Foresters, we should distinguish between historical problems, potential age-related failures and issues affecting particular generations.

CVT Transmission Problems

Subaru's Lineartronic continuously variable transmission has been used extensively across its range.

Many Foresters operate without major transmission problems, but some older vehicles have experienced:

• Hesitation during acceleration.
• Jerking or shuddering at lower speeds.
• Unusual transmission whining.
• Delayed engagement when selecting Drive or Reverse.
• Expensive transmission repairs.

These symptoms do not automatically indicate a failed CVT. They may have several causes and require diagnosis.

When purchasing a used Forester, we recommend testing the transmission both cold and after it reaches operating temperature.

Excessive Engine Oil Consumption

Some older Subaru Boxer engines developed reputations for consuming more oil than expected.

This concern is more relevant to certain earlier engines and production periods, rather than every Forester on Australian roads.

Warning signs include low oil levels between services, visible exhaust smoke or an unusual engine noise.

A properly maintained vehicle should be checked according to the manufacturer's oil-monitoring recommendations.

Head Gasket Problems

Head gasket failures are frequently mentioned in discussions about Subaru reliability.

However, this issue is strongly associated with particular older Subaru engine families.

It would be misleading to suggest that every modern Subaru Forester has an inherent head gasket defect.

Nevertheless, when examining an older example, we should inspect for coolant leaks, overheating history and contamination between engine oil and coolant.

Suspension and Wheel Bearing Wear

Australian driving conditions can be demanding on suspension components.

A Forester regularly driven on rough country roads may eventually develop worn bushings, wheel bearings or shock absorbers.

Common symptoms include knocking sounds, uneven tyre wear, vibration and humming noises that change with road speed.

These are not necessarily unique Subaru defects, but they deserve attention during a pre-purchase inspection.

Infotainment and Electronic Issues

Some owners have reported infotainment glitches, sensor warnings or electronic inconveniences.

The complexity of modern driver-assistance systems also means damaged windscreens or certain repairs may require specialist camera calibration.

Before purchasing a used model, check that all screens, cameras, warning systems and steering-wheel controls function correctly.

Is the Subaru Forester Good on Fuel?

Fuel consumption is one area where the Forester has historically faced criticism.

Its permanent AWD capability and conventional petrol engine can contribute to higher fuel use than some front-wheel-drive or more efficient hybrid competitors.

Fortunately, the latest hybrid offers a meaningful improvement.

Subaru Forester Fuel Consumption Australia

The following are official combined-cycle figures for the current Australian MY26 range.

Actual consumption varies depending on traffic, driving conditions, tyres, vehicle load and driving habits.

For example, drivers who spend considerable time in heavy Sydney or Melbourne traffic may benefit from the hybrid's electric assistance.

Meanwhile, drivers who mainly travel long distances at highway speeds may notice a smaller fuel-saving advantage.

Is the Forester Hybrid Worth It?

The hybrid is worth considering if fuel consumption is one of your priorities.

However, whether it represents better financial value depends on the purchase-price premium.

We recommend evaluating how many kilometres you travel annually and how long you intend to keep the vehicle.

If you're driving 20,000 kilometres or more each year, fuel savings may become increasingly meaningful.

For drivers covering fewer than 10,000 kilometres annually, the standard petrol model may still make financial sense.

Is the Subaru Forester Good for Australian Roads?

This is where the Forester becomes particularly appealing.

Australian roads vary dramatically by region, and many drivers need a vehicle that feels comfortable both in urban environments and beyond them.

City Driving

Despite its SUV proportions, the Forester is relatively manageable around town.

Large windows, a raised seating position and available parking assistance make it convenient in shopping centres and residential streets.

The suspension generally handles typical suburban road imperfections comfortably.

However, its AWD system and larger body make it less economical than a smaller hatchback.

Highway Driving

The Forester performs well as a highway family vehicle.

Its comfortable seating, stable road manners and relatively quiet cruising characteristics make long journeys manageable.

Are Subaru Foresters Reliable in Australia?

We also like the usefulness of adaptive cruise control on long Australian highways.

One limitation is engine noise during strong acceleration, particularly when overtaking or climbing steep hills.

Gravel Roads and Country Driving

For rural and regional Australia, the Forester offers one of its strongest arguments.

Its AWD traction, ground clearance and X-Mode technology make it well suited to many maintained gravel roads and moderately uneven surfaces.

This is particularly attractive for drivers living outside metropolitan areas.

Nevertheless, we would not recommend treating it like a Toyota LandCruiser or a dedicated off-road vehicle.

Deep ruts, large rocks, severe washouts and deep-water crossings can exceed its capabilities.

Subaru Forester Safety Rating Australia

Safety is another reason why the Forester remains competitive.

The latest Australian generation has received a five-star ANCAP safety rating, applying to variants introduced from June 2025.

Its assessment results include:

The assessment reflects the relevant ANCAP testing protocols and should not be compared directly with older ratings without accounting for changes in testing standards.

Subaru EyeSight Driver Assist

Subaru's EyeSight technology includes driver-assistance features designed to reduce the likelihood or severity of certain accidents.

Depending on generation and specification, features can include adaptive cruise control, autonomous emergency braking, lane-support technology and driver monitoring.

The current-generation Forester also benefits from improved camera-based assistance systems.

However, these technologies remain driver-assistance features.

Drivers must stay attentive and responsible for controlling the vehicle.

Is the Subaru Forester a Good Family Car?

For many Australian families, the answer is yes.

The Forester's combination of passenger space, accessible seating and practical cargo capacity makes it an appealing family SUV.

Unlike some sporty-looking crossovers, it has a relatively boxy design that helps maximise usable interior space.

Rear Passenger Comfort

The rear seats offer useful headroom and legroom for children and adults.

Large rear doors also help when installing child seats or assisting younger passengers.

Rear-seat air vents and additional comfort equipment vary depending on the model and trim.

For families with babies or toddlers, we recommend physically testing your preferred child restraint before buying.

Subaru Forester Boot Space

The current-generation Forester provides approximately:

These figures relate to the Australian specifications and can vary with trim and measurement configuration.

The wide opening and relatively practical cargo shape are important advantages.

For families carrying prams, sports equipment, camping supplies or large grocery loads, usability can matter more than the headline capacity.

The rear seats also fold to accommodate longer items.

Is It Suitable for Road Trips?

Absolutely.

The Forester is particularly well suited to family holidays involving highway travel and occasional gravel-road access.

Its visibility, ride comfort and versatile cargo area are useful for longer journeys.

For regular remote-area travel, however, we recommend carefully considering tyre choice, recovery equipment, fuel planning and spare-wheel availability.

Subaru Forester Maintenance Costs Australia

Maintenance costs are an important part of determining whether a Forester represents good value.

Subaru is not generally positioned as a budget-focused brand, and some servicing items can cost more than owners initially expect.

Service Intervals

The Australian MY26 Forester has scheduled servicing every 12 months or 15,000 kilometres, whichever comes first.

Older Foresters may have different service intervals, including 12 months or 12,500 kilometres.

Always follow the handbook for the specific vehicle rather than assuming every Forester uses the same schedule.

Capped-Price Servicing

Subaru's published MY26 capped-price schedule lists the following standard services:

These are published scheduled-service prices, not a guarantee of all future ownership expenses. Prices and programme terms should be confirmed before purchase.

Tyres, unexpected repairs, certain wear items and additional maintenance can increase the total.

Are Subaru Parts Expensive?

Some genuine Subaru components can be relatively expensive compared with those of budget-oriented vehicles.

The Boxer engine layout and AWD drivetrain may also make certain repairs more involved.

However, Subaru has an established Australian dealer and service network, and independent Subaru specialists operate in many metropolitan areas.

For owners planning to keep a Forester beyond its warranty period, finding a reputable specialist can be worthwhile.

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Subaru Forester Warranty in Australia

New Subaru vehicles sold in Australia generally include a five-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty for eligible private-use vehicles.

Different limits can apply to certain commercial uses.

The current Forester Hybrid also has separate hybrid-battery warranty coverage, published as eight years or 160,000 kilometres, subject to its terms.

This provides reassurance for buyers purchasing new vehicles.

However, a warranty does not guarantee that a vehicle will never experience problems.

Understanding exclusions, servicing obligations and coverage limits remains important.

Subaru Forester vs Toyota RAV4

The Toyota RAV4 is one of the Forester's most obvious competitors in Australia.

Both vehicles appeal to families seeking an efficient, practical and dependable SUV, but they emphasise different strengths.

If we regularly drive along gravel roads or appreciate standard AWD, the Forester deserves serious consideration.

If fuel economy is the main priority, the RAV4 Hybrid may be more attractive.

We would compare equivalent model years, equipment levels and driveaway prices before deciding.

Subaru Forester vs Mazda CX-5

The Mazda CX-5 offers a different ownership experience.

Mazda places considerable emphasis on interior presentation, responsive handling and a polished driving feel.

The Forester, meanwhile, focuses more heavily on visibility, cabin practicality and all-weather capability.

The CX-5 may appeal to drivers who prefer a more premium-looking cabin or a sportier driving character.

However, the Forester's large windows and upright body design can make it especially convenient for family use.

For buyers regularly travelling on rural roads, the Forester's standard AWD and generous clearance are compelling features.

Ultimately, both deserve a test drive because their driving personalities are noticeably different.

Subaru Forester vs Nissan X-Trail

The Nissan X-Trail is another popular medium SUV in Australia.

Its appeal includes a comfortable interior, available electrified powertrains and, in certain versions, additional seating flexibility.

The Forester offers a more consistent focus on AWD capability and outdoor-oriented versatility.

Buyers should examine seating requirements carefully.

The Australian Forester is a five-seat SUV, while certain X-Trail configurations offer seven seats.

For larger families, that distinction could determine the better purchase.

Are Used Subaru Foresters Worth Buying?

A used Subaru Forester can represent excellent value, especially for buyers who need AWD without paying for a new vehicle.

However, we would be selective about generation, maintenance history and mechanical condition.

Subaru Forester 2013–2018

Fourth-generation Foresters remain popular on the used market.

They can be practical and capable vehicles, but buyers should pay attention to oil consumption, transmission behaviour, suspension wear and signs of neglected maintenance.

Higher-mileage examples deserve a thorough inspection.

Cars that have regularly driven on beaches or difficult tracks should also be examined for corrosion and underbody damage.

Subaru Forester 2019–2025

The fifth-generation Forester is a particularly interesting used option.

It introduced a more modern platform and a strong emphasis on active safety.

The naturally aspirated 2.5-litre petrol versions are generally worth considering when supported by complete servicing records.

However, we still recommend examining CVT behaviour, electronic equipment, suspension condition and evidence of previous accident repairs.

The previous-generation mild-hybrid model is another possibility, although its fuel-efficiency benefits were relatively modest compared with the newer strong-hybrid system.

Subaru Forester 2025 Onwards

The latest generation delivers updated styling, improved safety technology and the stronger hybrid powertrain.

It is appealing for buyers seeking a new car, although purchase prices have increased compared with the outgoing model.

Because it is relatively new, its long-term reliability record remains incomplete.

For buyers planning to keep a vehicle for ten years or longer, that uncertainty deserves consideration.

What to Check Before Buying a Used Subaru Forester

Before paying for a second-hand Forester, we recommend arranging a professional inspection.

Pay particular attention to the following:

1. Service history: Confirm that maintenance has been completed at the required intervals.
2. CVT performance: Check for jerking, whining, hesitation or delayed engagement.
3. Engine condition: Look for oil leaks, coolant loss, excessive smoke and unusual noises.
4. AWD tyres: Ensure all four tyres are compatible and have reasonably consistent wear.
5. Suspension: Listen for knocks and check steering response.
6. Undercarriage: Inspect for damage caused by off-road driving.
7. Electronics: Test cameras, infotainment, safety systems and dashboard functions.
8. Accident history: Look for signs of structural repairs or inconsistent panel alignment.
9. Recall history: Check for outstanding manufacturer recalls using the vehicle identification number.
10. Ownership records: Verify registration details, finance status and written-off vehicle history through the appropriate Australian checks.

A professional inspection may identify expensive problems that are difficult to notice during a short test drive.

Is the Subaru Forester Expensive to Own?

The Forester's overall ownership costs depend on much more than its initial price.

We should consider fuel, servicing, insurance, registration, tyres, depreciation and potential repairs.

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Fuel Costs

The standard petrol Forester consumes more fuel than some hybrid competitors.

Drivers covering high annual distances may find that this difference becomes a noticeable expense.

The newer Forester Hybrid helps reduce this disadvantage.

Insurance

Insurance premiums vary according to the driver's age, location, driving record, annual mileage, vehicle value and selected policy.

A Forester driven in regional Queensland may attract a different premium from an equivalent vehicle kept in inner-city Melbourne.

Rather than assuming Subaru insurance is expensive or affordable, we recommend requesting quotes for the exact model before buying.

Tyre Replacement

An AWD vehicle needs appropriately matched tyres.

Using tyres with significantly different rolling circumferences can create unnecessary drivetrain stress.

Replacing multiple tyres together may therefore be necessary in situations where a two-wheel-drive vehicle might only need a pair.

Depreciation

Foresters have an established reputation and buyer following in Australia, which can support demand for used examples.

However, resale values depend on mileage, market conditions, vehicle condition and changes to new-car pricing.

We would avoid treating strong resale value as guaranteed.

Is the Subaru Forester Good for Towing?

The current Forester can tow moderate loads, although its capacity varies by powertrain.

These limits are subject to the manufacturer's requirements, equipment and applicable vehicle weight ratings.

The petrol version is the more suitable choice if towing is an important part of your driving.

It may be appropriate for certain trailers, small campers or lightweight caravans within the vehicle's limits.

However, the Forester is not intended for towing large, heavy caravans.

Before purchasing, verify the loaded trailer mass, towball download, payload and any applicable combined mass restrictions.

Who Should Buy a Subaru Forester?

The Forester is particularly well suited to buyers who prioritise versatility.

We would recommend considering one if you:

• Have a family and need a practical five-seat SUV.
• Frequently drive on rural or gravel roads.
• Want AWD without purchasing a large 4WD.
• Value strong outward visibility.
• Enjoy camping and outdoor activities.
• Prefer comfortable everyday driving over sporty acceleration.
• Want a medium SUV with useful ground clearance.
• Appreciate an established automotive brand and service network.

For these drivers, the Forester offers a convincing combination of practicality and capability.

Who Should Avoid the Subaru Forester?

Despite its strengths, the Forester will not suit everyone.

We would consider alternatives if you:

• Want the lowest possible fuel consumption.
• Prefer particularly sporty acceleration.
• Need seven seats.
• Regularly tow heavy caravans.
• Want a smaller or less expensive SUV.
• Primarily drive in the city and have little need for AWD.
• Prefer a more luxurious cabin for the money.

A vehicle can be reliable and well designed without being the right purchase for every driver.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are Subaru Foresters good cars in Australia?

Yes. Subaru Foresters are generally good vehicles for Australian driving conditions thanks to their standard AWD, spacious interiors, generous ground clearance and useful safety features.

They are especially appealing to families and drivers who frequently travel on country roads.

However, fuel economy, purchase price and maintenance expenses should be considered before buying.

2. Are Subaru Foresters expensive to maintain in Australia?

They can be somewhat expensive to maintain compared with certain budget-focused vehicles, particularly when additional AWD or transmission repairs become necessary.

However, Subaru offers capped-price servicing for eligible new vehicles, making scheduled maintenance expenses easier to anticipate.

Regular servicing remains essential for long-term reliability.

3. What are the most common Subaru Forester problems?

Potential problems depend on the generation and include CVT transmission symptoms, oil consumption on some older engines, suspension wear and occasional electronic issues.

Historical head gasket problems are more closely associated with older Subaru engines and should not automatically be attributed to modern Foresters.

A pre-purchase inspection is advisable for any used example.

4. Is the Subaru Forester better than the Toyota RAV4?

The answer depends on driving priorities.

The Forester is particularly appealing for standard AWD, visibility and rough-road versatility.

The RAV4 Hybrid has traditionally offered an advantage in fuel efficiency.

Both are strong family SUV choices, so we recommend comparing equivalent variants rather than assuming one is universally better.

5. How many kilometres can a Subaru Forester last?

A well-maintained Forester may reach 200,000–300,000 kilometres or more, although that should be considered a possibility rather than a guaranteed lifespan.

Service history, driving conditions, transmission health and timely repairs strongly influence longevity.

Final Verdict: Are Subaru Foresters Good Cars?

Yes, Subaru Foresters are good cars in Australia, particularly for drivers who prioritise safety, practicality and all-weather capability.

Their greatest strengths are not necessarily acceleration, luxury or exceptional fuel economy. Instead, the Forester delivers an effective combination of comfortable everyday transport and genuine versatility for Australia's varied driving conditions.

We particularly like its standard AWD, generous ground clearance, excellent visibility and family-friendly cabin.

The latest generation also makes the Forester more competitive by introducing a stronger hybrid system that meaningfully improves efficiency.

There are disadvantages worth acknowledging. The petrol versions can be relatively thirsty, servicing expenses require budgeting, and some older Foresters have experienced mechanical problems.

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For buyers considering a used model, a complete service history and professional inspection are essential.

Our recommendation: If we needed a practical five-seat SUV for Australian highways, family travel and occasional gravel-road adventures, the Subaru Forester would definitely deserve a place on our shortlist.

The petrol model is especially worth considering for buyers prioritising towing capability and a lower purchase price, while the hybrid makes more sense for drivers seeking improved fuel efficiency.

Ultimately, the Subaru Forester remains one of the more versatile medium SUVs available in Australia—and for the right driver, it can be a very sensible long-term purchase.