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SUBARU FORESTER Used Car Review

Subaru joined the 'soft-roader' SUV club in 1997 when it used the platform of its famous Impreza small car as the basis for the Forester. The model has become the Japanese brand's most popular model in Australia, as well as being one of the country's favourite SUVs. Currently into its fourth generation, an all-new Forester has been unveiled and is due in late 2018.

Pros

Cons

  • Fantastic all-round visibility
  • Clever Eyesight safety tech on more recent models
  • Ride comfort consistently good across generations
  • Permanent all-wheel drive (most rivals use a part-time AWD system)
  • Servicing costs higher than average and limited capped-price program
  • Full-size spare reduces boot space
  • Cabin design lacks flair and premium feel
  • For light-duty off-roading only
This is general information and should not be relied on as purchasing advice.
SubaruForesterDrive AwayAir conditioning?: YesClear all

Top2023 Subaru Forester S5 MY24 2.5i-S CVT AWD Silver 7 Speed Constant Variable Wagon

  • 2162 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

leather trim satnav sunroof heated front seats adaptive cruise control keyless entry alloys front side and rear cameras powered rear tailgate all wheel drive balance of factory warranty and much more

$49,000 Drive Away^
Geelong, VIC

Dealer demo
06/05/2024

Top2018 Subaru Forester S4 MY18 2.5i-S CVT AWD Silver 6 Speed Constant Variable Wagon

  • 196999 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

We are located 15 minutes from Melbourne CBD. One of the biggest Mazda dealership in the WESTERN suburb ++++ 2018 Subaru Forester S4 MY18 2.5i-S Wagon 5dr CVT 6sp AWD 2.5i ++++ Sunroof. SAT NAV Reverse camera. Alloy wheels. AND MUCH MUCH MORE!!! One PRIVATE owner been traded on brand new Mazda.. DEALER benefits: RWC, Stamp duty and transfer fee all included.

$19,770 Drive Away^
Ravenhall, VIC

Dealer used
06/05/2024

Top2020 Subaru Forester S5 MY21 2.5i-S CVT AWD Red 7 Speed Constant Variable Wagon

  • 16574 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

** JUST ARRIVED** **WE CAN SEND A COMPLETE WALK AROUND VIDEO** We are a Franchise Dealership with all vehicles sold have been inspected by Factory Backed Trained Technicians. We put our 'BEST PRICE FIRST' We Sell over 100 Cars per month and stock over 150 Cars, With Such a HIGH TURNOVER AND SIZE means we can operate with Far LOWER MARGINS RESULTING IN A FAR BETTER PRICE FOR YOU! We Provide a large range of FACTORY BACKED COMPETITIVE FINANCE PACKAGES are available to approved purcha

$41,999 Drive Away^
Traralgon, VIC

Dealer used
06/05/2024

Top2017 Subaru Forester S4 MY17 2.5i-L CVT AWD White 6 Speed Constant Variable Wagon

  • 94057 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

Experience the perfect blend of adventure and reliability with our 2017 Subaru Forester, now available for a discerning buyer. With only 94,057 kilometres on the odometer, this automatic Forester is a testament to Subaru's renowned durability and performance. It's the ideal companion for both city driving and off-road escapades, thanks to its versatile design and all-wheel-drive capability. At blinkr, we stand by the blinkr promise - to offer you a fair, easy, and fast car buying experience.

$23,886 Drive Away^
Strathmore Heights, VIC

Dealer used
05/05/2024

Top2016 Subaru Forester S4 MY16 2.5i-L CVT AWD White 6 Speed Constant Variable Wagon

  • 96083 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

Introducing the exceptional 2016 Subaru Forester, now available at our dealership! With a reliable track record and 96,083 kilometers on the odometer, this automatic SUV stands out as a prime choice for adventurers and families alike. Known for its robust performance and versatility, the Subaru Forester is ready to take you on your next journey, whether it's urban commutes or off-road excursions. At our dealership, we're committed to the blinkr promise, ensuring your car buying experience is

$22,720 Drive Away^
Strathmore Heights, VIC

Dealer used
05/05/2024

Top2017 Subaru Forester S4 MY18 2.5i-L CVT AWD White 6 Speed Constant Variable Wagon

  • 74593 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

Discover the epitome of adventure and reliability with our 2017 Subaru Forester. This automatic gem comes with just 74,593 kilometres on the clock, promising a blend of comfort, performance, and safety that is hard to match. At our dealership, we stand by the blinkr promise, ensuring your car buying experience is fair, easy, and fast. We prioritize your satisfaction above all, offering a 48-hour money back guarantee, 12-month roadside assistance, and the assurance that this Forester won't need

$25,645 Drive Away^
Strathmore Heights, VIC

Dealer used
05/05/2024

2007 Subaru Forester 79V MY07 X AWD Luxury Silver 4 Speed Automatic Wagon

  • 160279 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

BARGAIN LUXURY 4 CYL AUTO WAGON!! As New 2007 Subaru Forester Luxury AWD Wagon, 2.5 Petrol Engine, Auto Gearbox, Low 160,000ks with EXTENSIVE Log Book Service History from new, Full Black Leather Interior, Massive 3 Way Electric Sunroof, Freezing Cold Air Cond, Power Steering, Electric Windows and Mirrors, 90% Yokohama Geolander Tyres, Remote Central Locking with 2 Keys, Cargo Barrier, Bonnet and Headlight Protectors, Aftermarket Reversing Camera, Towbar, List goes on.. WILL NOT FAULT THIS C

$9,990 Drive Away^
Slacks Creek, QLD

Dealer used
2 hours ago

2020 Subaru Forester S5 MY21 Hybrid L CVT AWD Silver, Chrome 7 Speed Constant Variable Wagon Hybrid

  • 108139 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

v Fantastic Service History! v We are located 15 minutes SOUTHSIDE BRISBANE CBD (Magic Mile), This Car is Still AVAILABLE. v Balance of the new car Factory Warranty . v 'NO HAGGLE’ The final drive away price is displayed on every car. v The price shown INCLUDE Registration and Government charges v We are an MTAQ member v All of our vehicles come with a PPSR security certificate . v QLD Safety Certificate. v Every car has already been given a multi-point safety check. v FINANCE AV

$29,990 Drive Away^
Moorooka, QLD

Dealer used
8 hours ago

2013 Subaru Forester S4 MY13 2.5i-L Lineartronic AWD Red 6 Speed Constant Variable Wagon

  • 155216 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

v We are located 15 minutes SOUTHSIDE BRISBANE CBD (Magic Mile), This Car is Still AVAILABLE. v 3 Year Unlimited Km ** FREE ** Warranty on FULL purchase price. v 'NO HAGGLE’ The final drive away price is displayed on every car. v The price shown INCLUDE Registration and Government charges v We are an MTAQ member v All of our vehicles come with a PPSR security certificate . v QLD Safety Certificate. v Every car has already been given a multi-point safety check. v FINANCE AVAILABLE

$15,990 Drive Away^
Moorooka, QLD

Dealer used
8 hours ago

2005 SUBARU Forester XT

  • 207000 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

SUBARU FORESTER LT 2006 /AUTOMATIC / 207000 KMS WILL COME QLD REGO 28/11/24 / ROADWORTY CERTIFACTE PPSR CLEAR TITLE STAT WARRANRTY / FULL LEATHER INTERIOR /TURBO TIMER /CRUIZE CONTROL /REMOTE CENTRAL LOCKING /RECENT TYRES /COLD AIR /CLEAN AND TIDY /DRIVES WELL CAN ASSISTE WITH FINANCE /TRADE IN WELCOME /LOCATED NAMBOUR /ISPECTION BY APPOIMENT CALL KEV ON

$9,195 Drive Away^
Nambour, QLD

Dealer used
9 hours ago

2017 Subaru Forester S4 MY18 XT CVT AWD Premium Grey 8 Speed Constant Variable Wagon

  • 149965 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

Adaptive Cruise Control Satellite navigation Bluetooth Device Integration Leather Appointed Interior With Front Heated Seats Reversing Camera With Rear Parking Sensors Keyless Entry And Push Button Start 2 KEYS We are Western Victoria's Biggest Used Vehicle dealer located just 10 minutes from the famous Sovereign Hill with a wide range of pre-owned vehicles in stock ready to choose from along with several New Vehicle options on site with Kia, Peugeot, LDV and SsangYong on offe

$25,990 Drive Away^
Wendouree, VIC

Dealer used
10 hours ago

2017 Subaru Forester S4 MY18 2.5i-L CVT AWD Fleet Edition Silver 6 Speed Constant Variable Wagon

  • 77753 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

* 2017 Forester 2.5L Petrol Auto AWD * 16 Bowen Rd, Hermit Park * 5 Star Safety Rating * 8.1 L/100kms Combined * Ex Fleet; Lease * One Owner * Full Service History * Window Tint * Rubber Mats * All Wheel Drive Security This Forester is located at 16 Bowen Rd, Hermit Park !?! so you're Keeping it Local as we are a Family-Owned company here in the unofficial capital of NORTH QUEENSLAND. A large city with a relaxed country feel, so we're a close knit and Friendly sales team. Your Sa

$23,890 Drive Away^
Garbutt, QLD

Dealer used
13 hours ago

2018 Subaru Forester S5 MY19 2.5i-L CVT AWD Silver 7 Speed Constant Variable Wagon

  • 101483 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

First registered 2019! One Owner with full Subaru service history. Features Automatic transmission with a 2.5lt engine. Looks stunning in Silver duco with matching plush trim and Alloy wheels. In immaculate condition. This vehicle has a drive away price and includes all on road costs, We are located just a one hour drive south of Rockhampton or a one hour flight from Brisbane, We are a family owned dealership with an excellent reputation and 33 years experience selling quality used cars at the

$28,990 Drive Away^
Gladstone, QLD

Dealer used
14 hours ago

2021 Subaru Forester S5 MY21 2.5i-L CVT AWD Black 7 Speed Constant Variable Wagon

  • 35688 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

### INCLUDES BALANCE OF MANUFACTURE'S WARRANTY TO MARCH-2026 ### LOVE THIS CAR AND WANT TO KNOW MORE? SEND US AN ENQUIRY VIA TEXT, PHONE OR EMAIL TODAY TO DISCUSS GETTING YOU INTO YOUR NEXT VEHICLE. FEATURES OF THIS CAR INCLUDE: FRONT/REAR/SIDE VISION CAMERA, REVERSE PARKING SENSORS, FORWARD COLLISION WARNING, LANE DEPARTURE WARNING, LANE KEEPING ACTIVE ASSIST, BLIND SPOT MONITOR, DISTANCE CONTROL CRUISE CONTROL, APPLE CAR PLAY & ANDROID AUTO, DAB+ DIGITAL RADIO, KEYLESS START, HEATED FRO

$36,990 Drive Away^
Coburg North, VIC

Dealer used
14 hours ago

2021 SUBARU FORESTER 2.5i-S (AWD) TOP OF THE RANGE ONLY 20,000 KM 6 MONTH REGO RWC WARRANTY

  • 20000 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

BUY WITH CONFIDENCE ,FROM TURST DEALER, TOP OF THE RANGE,For Sale Beautiful 😍 2021 Subaru Forester 2.5i-S, Top of the Range, Premium Luxury,2.5 L Petrol, Boxer Engine, only 20,000 km, Cvt Automatic, Symmetrical all wheel Drive, 5 seat 👨👩👧👧👨👨👧Great family suv, Great fuel economy 7.4 L/🔋100km(combined), Great driving Dynamic,Hwy,City, Around Town, AWD. 👉Come with All Latest features.💻💻. 👉EyeSight®Driver Assist. 👉XMode. 👉Powered Rear gate. 👉Subaru’s Vision Assist. 👉Steering

$36,999 Drive Away^
Hillcrest, QLD

Dealer used
14 hours ago

2021 SUBARU FORESTER 2.5i-S (AWD) TOP OF THE RANGE ONLY 27000 KM 6 MONTH REGO RWC WARRANTY

  • 27000 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

BUY WITH CONFIDENCE ,FROM TURST DEALER, TOP OF THE RANGE,For Sale Beautiful 2021 Subaru Forester 2.5i-S, Premium Luxury,2.5 L Boxer Engine, only 27000 km, Cvt Automatic, Symmetrical all wheel Drive, 5 seat Great family suv,super comfortable to Drive on Hwy,city,Town,outback, Great fuel economy 7.4 L/100km(combined)city and Hwy. Come with All Latest features. *EyeSight® Driver Assist. *XMode. *Powered rear gate. *Subaru’s Vision Assist. *Steering Responsive Headlights. *18 Inch Alloy Wheels. *

$34,999 Drive Away^
Hillcrest, QLD

Dealer used
14 hours ago

2023 SUBARU FORETER 2.5i SPORT (AWD) ONLY 900 KM 6 MONTH REGO RWC WARRANTY

  • 900 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

BUY WITH CONFIDENCE FROM TURST DEALER,For Sale Beautiful 2023 Subaru Forester 2.5i SPORT Premium Luxury, MY22 , 2.5L Petrol, Boxer Engine, only 900 km, Cvt Automatic, Symmetrical all wheel Drive, 5 seat Great family suv,super comfortable to Drive on Hwy,city,Town,outback, Great fuel economy 7.4 L/100km(combined)city and Hwy. Come with All Latest features. *EyeSight® Driver Assist. *XMode. *Sport seat. *Powered rear gate. *Subaru’s Vision Assist. *Steering Responsive Headlights. *18 Inch Alloy

$40,999 Drive Away^
Hillcrest, QLD

Dealer used
14 hours ago

2014 Subaru Forester S4 MY14 2.5i Lineartronic AWD Luxury Silver 6 Speed Constant Variable Wagon

  • 173281 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

If you are interested in any of our vehicles please don’t hesitate to enquire as we will be happy to answer any questions and explain the nature of the sales moving forward. We can also offer virtual tours via video link to view our vehicles. Anyone in Gippsland region; we have a contact point available. Please enquire on your chosen vehicle and we will make the necessary arrangements. ALL PRICES INCLUDE ROADWORTHY CERTIFICATE AND STAMP DUTY - DRIVE AWAY NO MORE TO PAY!!!!

$16,400 Drive Away^
Pakenham, VIC

Dealer used
15 hours ago

2021 Subaru Forester S5 MY21 2.5i Premium CVT AWD Grey 7 Speed Constant Variable Wagon

  • 59101 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

BUY WITH CONFIDENCE FROM A MULTI-FRANCHISE DEALER Yes this vehicle is available! Located in the Northern Suburbs of Melbourne and only 10 minutes East of Melbourne Airport! Call or SMS for a quick response from one of our friendly sales team. We have over 100 cars to choose from, of all makes and models. All prices are drive away, all vehicles under 160,000km come with a 3 month/5,000km Statutory Warranty Ask us about our optional 10 year/200,000km Mechanical Protection Plan covered Australia

$39,990 Drive Away^
South Morang, VIC

Dealer used
16 hours ago

2019 Subaru Forester S5 MY20 2.5i CVT AWD Silver 7 Speed Constant Variable Wagon

  • 106500 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

We are thrilled to present this exceptional 2019 Subaru Forester, a standout in its class for those who demand versatility, reliability, and advanced safety features in their ride. This automatic gem has been meticulously maintained and showcases the perfect blend of comfort, technology, and performance that Subaru is renowned for. Whether you're navigating the urban jungle or exploring off the beaten path, this Forester is equipped to deliver a seamless and enjoyable driving experience. Its sp

$27,990 Drive Away^
Tweed Heads South, NSW

Dealer used
16 hours ago

2008 SUBARU Forester X

  • 265123 km
  • SUV
  • Manual
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

Great looking MY09 Subaru Forester 4X4 5 speed Manual with rego, RWC service history with books with all on road costs Features Include: 5 speed manual, dual range AWD, power steering, air con, dual front airbags, side airbags, ABS brakes, cruise control, power windows/mirrors, central locking, and much more!

$6,899 Drive Away^
Footscray, VIC

Dealer used
17 hours ago

2019 Subaru Forester S5 2.5I Silver Constant Variable SUV

  • 91393 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

A standout member of the Subaru family – this 2019 all-wheel drive S5 Subaru Forester is a car were excited to list with Subaru being a new car brand within our dealership group. Dressed in sophisticated Ice Silver, this Forester is a symbol of the durability and reliability that the Subaru name has carried for years. Equipped with Subaru alloy wheels and a handy tow bar for your bike rack or a small trailer, this vehicle perfectly combines utility with style. The Forester’s keyless entry s

$28,990 Drive Away^
Ashmore, QLD

Dealer used
17 hours ago

2012 Subaru Forester S3 MY12 X AWD White 4 Speed Sports Automatic Wagon

  • 125066 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

As a pre-owned vehicle from Melbourne's number one pre-owned specialist based in the South East suburbs, you can trust that this car has been thoroughly inspected and maintained to ensure that it is in excellent condition. We offer a hassle-free, no-haggle policy and price check our vehicles daily to ensure they are competitively priced for their condition, year, and mileage. We have hand-picked all our vehicles to undergo our 101 point safety check, so you can drive away with confidence

$14,980 Drive Away^
Springvale, VIC

Dealer used
17 hours ago

2012 Subaru Forester MY12 X Black 4 Speed Auto Elec Sportshift Wagon

  • 263987 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

******FREE 6 MONTHS WARRANTY****** AUTO AIR STEER GREAT FAMILY WAGON FULL POWER OPTIONS LOOKS AND DRIVES EXCELLENT VERY CLEAN INSIDE/OUT $7990. We are now open to the public Monday to Saturday 9-5. 16A Carlingford St Regents Park Over 40 cars in stock in one location All cars are wholesale priced to clear, where quality costs no more 1-3 years warranty with 24/7 Roadside assist available on selected vehicles National delivery options available Price is exclusive of dealer and gover

$7,990 Drive Away^
Regents Park, NSW

Dealer used
17 hours ago

2015 Subaru Forester S4 MY15 XT CVT AWD Premium Silver 8 Speed Constant Variable Wagon

  • 195231 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

Yes! It’s still available! WE CAN BRING THIS CAR TO YOU. Comes with RWC and a clear title. 15 mins down the freeway, West from the Westgate Bridge, we provide a service that you don't have to come to us, we can travel anywhere in Victoria to show you our vehicles - obligation free. Great finance packages available and Trade-ins welcome. We are a husband and wife, Proudly Australian owned and operated team that give great customer service: No massive overheads, no pressure techniques, no 'double

$16,790 Drive Away^
Hoppers Crossing, VIC

Dealer used
17 hours ago

2010 Subaru Forester S3 MY10 X AWD Silver 4 Speed Sports Automatic Wagon

  • 175138 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

Has full leather interior! Yes! It’s still available! WE CAN BRING THIS CAR TO YOU. Comes with RWC and a clear title. 15 mins down the freeway, West from the Westgate Bridge, we provide a service that you don't have to come to us, we can travel anywhere in Victoria to show you our vehicles - obligation free. Great finance packages available and Trade-ins welcome. We are a husband and wife, Proudly Australian owned and operated team that give great customer service: No massive overheads, no pres

$11,990 Drive Away^
Hoppers Crossing, VIC

Dealer used
17 hours ago

2019 Subaru Forester S5 MY19 2.5i Premium CVT AWD Silver 7 Speed Constant Variable Wagon

  • 56127 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

Buy with confidence from us as we have a strong reputation as a trusted automotive dealer group, with a network of 28 brands, spanning 24 locations from South Brisbane in Queensland to Southwest Sydney in New South Wales to Melbourne Victoria. All our vehicles have been inspected by our expert technicians and undergo rigorous mechanical and safety inspections. With 1000+ used cars in stock we can offer the best rates on finance, insurance and service! We can also organise freight to anywhe

$31,990 Drive Away^
Robina, QLD

Dealer used
17 hours ago

2013 Subaru Forester S4 MY13 2.5i Lineartronic AWD Red 6 Speed Constant Variable Wagon

  • 107800 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

Just Arrived! * 12 Months Complimentary Warranty * Five-star ANCAP safety Rating * FWD * Roadworthy Certificate * Clear title * Packed full of features including Automatic transmission, Bluetooth, Reversing Camera, Tinted Windows, Roadworthy Certificate, Full Service History, Rear camera, Air conditioning, Cruise control, Stability control, 6 speaker stereo with USB/aux inputs and much more! At our VACC-accredited used car dealership, we personally handpick all our vehicles and professionall

$16,990 Drive Away^
Moorabbin, VIC

Dealer used
17 hours ago

2013 Subaru Forester S4 MY13 2.5i-S Lineartronic AWD Brown 6 Speed Constant Variable Wagon

  • 206393 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

2013 Subaru Forester MY13 2.5i-S Wagon 5dr Lineartronic 6sp AWD Petrol - Unleaded ULP, 4 Cyl, 5 Seats *TOP OF RANGE WITH FULL GEARS PLEASE READ BEFORE YOU MAKE ANY ENQUIRY!! STILL AVAILABLE' Yes! If the advertisement is still up, it's available for purchase. BUY WITH CONFIDENCE! Comprehensive Mechanic Inspection has been done with more than 20 years’ of experience buyer, and we carefully pick all our stocks to make sure the cars are in great condition. >5-star Google Reviews & strives

$15,999 Drive Away^
Ringwood, VIC

Dealer used
17 hours ago

2018 Subaru Forester S5 MY19 2.5i-S CVT AWD Blue 7 Speed Constant Variable Wagon

  • 86780 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

A capable SUV made to do more of the good stuff. The Forester 2.5i S delivers more space and easy access, so you can pack more into life. Made for everyday adventuring with the family, this is an SUV built for the toughest weekends and the busiest streets, so you've got time to get more done and have more fun. Performance • Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive • 2.5-litre horizontally-opposed Boxer engine • Lineartronic™ CVT with manual mode • Maximum power output: 126kW @ 5800rpm • Maximum

$29,990 Drive Away^
Seaford, VIC

Dealer used
18 hours ago

Overview of the Subaru Forester

Overview of the Subaru Forester

Subaru joined the 'soft-roader' SUV club in 1997 when it used the platform of its famous Impreza small car as the basis for the Forester.

The model has become the Japanese brand's most popular model in Australia, as well as being one of the country's favourite SUVs.

Currently into its fourth generation, an all-new Forester has been unveiled and is due in late 2018.

SUBARU FORESTER GENERATIONS (SINCE 2002)

2002-2008

2009-2013

2013-2018

2018 (September) onwards

RUNNING COSTS

Fuel Consumption

2.0L 4-cylinder turbo diesel: 5.9 to 6.4 litres per 100km

2.0L 4-cylinder petrol: 7.2 litres per 100km

2.5L 4-cylinder petrol: 8.1 litres per 100km

2.0L 4-cylinder turbo petrol: 8.5 to 9.3 litres per 100km

= Highly economical.

= Good economy.

= Average fuel use.

= Heavy consumption.

Servicing

SIMILAR MODELS TO SUBARU FORESTER

WHAT TO LOOK OUT FOR: SUBARU FORESTER (2013 ONWARDS)

The first check with any second-hand Subaru is of the service record. These engines are generally tough but use small oil pathways, and when these block with dirty oil, terminal damage isn't far away.

Like a lot of modern engine designs, the 2.0-litre non-turbo petrol engine can also consume a little oil between services. Subaru is not on its own here, and it's a fact that the latest engines with their low-friction designs aimed at saving fuel can use some oil.

Similarly, with modern engine designs, a lack of proper servicing can lead to a build-up of sludge and even higher oil consumption. Check the service record for gaps and check the dipstick for thick, black oil that suggests missed oil changes.

Some owners also report that the CVT transmission can be slow to select gears - particularly reverse - from park. Subaru dealers have been re-flashing the on-board computer to fix this, but in some cases the delay gradually gets worse again as time and kilometres pass.

While the Forester is all-wheel drive it's not a heavy-duty off-roader, so make sure it hasn't been used as one.