CarGurus expert rating: 3 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 5.0 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 32.6%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 4.1 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 90
Average Price: Around £34,500

Subaru Forester (2018-2024) Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Handles wet and wintery weather with ease, thanks to permanent four-wheel drive	The petrol engine is short on power
Roomy for people and their luggage	Expensive to buy as a new car
Excellent safety standards	Poor fuel economy and emissions

Quick Summary

The Subaru Forester (2018-2024) is a comfortable and roomy family SUV that combines estate-car practicality with genuine off-road capability. This fifth-generation model is longer and wider than its predecessors, offering plenty of head- and legroom for all occupants. With 520 litres of boot space and rear seats that fold flat for additional capacity, it's well-suited to families needing versatile storage. The sophisticated all-wheel-drive system and X-Mode terrain management make it genuinely capable in challenging weather and off-road conditions, whilst Hill Descent Control adds further confidence when tackling steep slopes.

The e-Boxer hybrid powertrain pairs a 2.0-litre petrol boxer engine with electric assistance, delivering 148bhp and three driving modes for varying conditions. Whilst performance is modest and fuel economy disappointing at 34.7mpg, the Forester compensates with comprehensive equipment levels, excellent Euro NCAP safety ratings, and a comfortable, composed driving experience. The Subaru Global Platform contributes to tidy handling and a smooth ride, making it an easy car to live with despite its limitations. However, at over £34,000 on the used market, it's a premium proposition compared to more efficient rivals.

Best for: Families seeking a spacious, capable SUV with genuine all-weather and off-road ability, and those prioritising safety and comfort over outright performance or fuel economy.

Not ideal for: Budget-conscious buyers, those seeking strong performance or competitive fuel economy, or drivers wanting a more efficient hybrid system with longer electric range.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the Forester if: You need a spacious, capable SUV with genuine all-weather and off-road ability, prioritise safety and comfort, and value comprehensive equipment levels.

Consider alternatives if: You're budget-conscious, seeking strong performance or competitive fuel economy, or want a more efficient hybrid system with longer electric range.

Competitive Position: The Subaru Forester (2018-2024) is a capable and well-equipped family SUV that excels in comfort, space, and all-weather capability. However, it faces stiff competition from more efficient and better-value alternatives. The Skoda Karoq and Mazda CX-5 offer superior fuel economy and value, whilst the Kia Sportage provides a more compelling overall package. The Forester's premium pricing, modest performance, and disappointing fuel economy make it a harder sell than its rivals, though its genuine off-road credentials and excellent safety record appeal to specific buyers prioritising capability and security over economy.

Read our full Subaru Forester Review

*The Overall CarGurus rating: that informs these recommendations is based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from July 2026, CarGurus expert reviews, and CarGurus user reviews.