EXPERT REVIEW · COMPACT SUV

2026 Subaru Forester review

Subaru Forester: a class leader on the details. Illustrative review

8.4/10 OffLot expert score

The 2026 Subaru Forester sits near the top of its class. Standard driver-assist suite; roomy second row and flexible cargo floor. Third row (where offered) is for kids and engine gets loud under hard acceleration, so test the trim you'd actually buy. Starting around $30,000, it undercuts most direct rivals.

What's good

  • Standard driver-assist suite
  • Roomy second row and flexible cargo floor
  • Well-organized infotainment

What to check

  • Third row (where offered) is for kids
  • Engine gets loud under hard acceleration

Best for: Buyers who want low running costs without giving up comfort. Starting MSRP: $30,000.

Owner reviews · 4.0 of 5 from 3 owners

★★★★☆Camille G. · Houston, TX · 30 months owned
Would buy again

The cargo room is the standout. My only gripe is the touchscreen climate controls, which I knew going in.

★★★★☆Isaiah M. · San Antonio, TX · 28 months owned
Second one we've owned

Twelve thousand miles in. Nothing has gone wrong, dealer service has been easy, and the cargo room still impresses passengers.

★★★★☆Hannah W. · Portland, OR · 6 months owned
Better than the test drive suggested

Twelve thousand miles in. Nothing has gone wrong, dealer service has been easy, and the cargo room still impresses passengers.

Price trend · used Subaru Forester, 12 months

$18.9k$19.2k$19.5k$19.8k$20.2kNov 25Jan 26Mar 26May 26Jul 26Sep 26

Average used asking price in the OffLot demo index: $19,425 · -2.41% last 30 days · +1.09% year over year.

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