Sixth generation · SL
Current2025–presentBolder styling and the first Forester Hybrid.
- Forester Hybrid for 2026
- Larger touchscreen standard
Compact SUV · 1998–present
Subaru Forester
Big windows, standard AWD, and a cult following in the mountains.
The Forester is Subaru’s upright, practical compact SUV: standard all-wheel drive, excellent visibility and generous ground clearance. It is a fixture anywhere it snows.
- Class
- Compact SUV
- Body style
- SUV
- Model years
- 1998–present
- Generations
- 6
- For sale near you
- 151
- Used from
- $7,495
About the Subaru Forester
A tall wagon at heart
The first Forester was built on the Impreza platform and looked more like a tall wagon than an SUV. That formula has stuck: tall glass, a low beltline and a boxy cargo area make it one of the easiest cars in its class to see out of and load.
Subaru Forester generations
6 generations since 1998. Newest first.
Fifth generation · SK
2019–2024On the Subaru Global Platform, with EyeSight standard.
- EyeSight standard
- Wilderness off-road trim from 2022
Fourth generation · SJ
2014–2018CVT arrives, plus EyeSight driver assistance and X-Mode.
- EyeSight available
- X-Mode for slippery terrain
- Last turbo XT until 2018
Third generation · SH
2009–2013Taller and roomier, leaning further into SUV territory.
- More rear legroom
- New FB25 engine in 2011
Second generation · SG
2003–2008Lighter and quicker, with a turbocharged XT model.
- Forester XT turbo from 2004
- Panoramic moonroof available
First generation · SF
1998–2002Impreza-based tall wagon with standard AWD.
- 2.5L boxer four
- Manual or automatic
Shop by model year
Jump to Subaru Forester listings from a specific year.
Watch
Resources
- WikipediaSubaru ForesterEncyclopedic overview with production history and sources.
- NHTSARecalls lookupCheck any VIN for open safety recalls before you buy.
- IIHSCrash test ratingsCrashworthiness and crash-avoidance ratings by model year.
- U.S. DOE / EPAFuel economy by model yearOfficial EPA mpg ratings and owner-reported fuel economy.
Subaru Forester FAQ
Is the Forester all-wheel drive?
Yes. Every Forester sold in the U.S. has standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive.
Which Foresters are turbocharged?
The Forester XT, offered from 2004 through 2018, used a turbocharged 2.5L (later 2.0L) boxer engine.
Subaru Forester alternatives
Compact SUV · 1996–present
Toyota RAV4
The compact crossover that started it all.
212 for salefrom $9,995Compact SUV · 1997–present
Honda CR-V
Honda’s roomy, sensible, endlessly popular crossover.
168 for salefrom $8,995Midsize wagon · 1995–present
Subaru Outback
The lifted wagon that defines Subaru.
167 for salefrom $7,995Compact SUV · 2013–present
Mazda CX-5
A sharp-handling compact SUV with a premium cabin.
97 for salefrom $9,995