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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.
SubaruForester2.5i-LWhiteClear all

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

  • 153582 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

2016 Subaru Forester S4 MY16 2.5i-L CVT AWD White 6 Speed Constant Variable Wagon

$19,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Wangara, WA

Dealer used
22/04/2024

Top2015 Subaru Forester S4 MY15 2.5i-L CVT AWD White 6 Speed Constant Variable Wagon

  • 110467 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

The 2015 Subaru Forester S4 MY15 2.5i-L CVT AWD Constant Variable Wagon is a versatile and capable SUV known for its reliable performance, spacious interior, and all-wheel-drive capability. As part of the 2.5i-L trim level, it offers a good balance of features and functionality for everyday driving and outdoor adventures. Powered by a robust 2.5-liter engine paired with a smooth continuously variable transmission (CVT) and Subaru's renowned all-wheel-drive system, the Forester 2.5i-L delivers

$22,500 Excl. Gov. Charges
Bibra Lake, WA

Dealer used
Yesterday

Top2018 Subaru Forester S4 MY18 2.5i-L CVT AWD White 6 Speed Constant Variable Wagon

  • 145441 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

ENQUIRE ONLINE TODAY to secure this 2018 SUBARU FORESTER 2.5I-L AWD AUTO at the SPECIAL INTERNET PRICE (DISCOUNTS HAVE ALREADY BEEN APPLIED). Our quality pre owned vehicles are carefully prepared for sale and presented in excellent condition. Each vehicle has undergone a 110-point vehicle inspection, to ensure our buyers are only buying vehicles free of major accident damage (PPSR available upon request) and in preparing our vehicles for their new owners we can demonstrate that our exacting sta

$24,480 Excl. Gov. Charges
Victoria Park, WA

Dealer used
21/04/2024

Top2014 Subaru Forester S4 MY14 2.5i-L Lineartronic AWD White 6 Speed Constant Variable Wagon

  • 217137 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

We have over 300 good quality cars at unbeatable prices, Auto or Manual, SUV or Wagon, Coupe or Convertible, Sunroof , Hatch or Sedan, Petrol or Turbo Diesel, 4x4 or 4x2 All cars are workshop tested, and optional parts and labour warranties are available .• *Pension Finance Available (Single Parent Payments, Parenting Payment, Disability Pension) • *Fee Free, No Interest Loan for Vehicles That Can Be Paid Off with Simple Fortnightly for ppl on Government payments. • *Dealer Charges Apply. •

$14,995 Excl. Gov. Charges
Minchinbury, NSW

Dealer used
15 hours ago

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

  • 97976 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

**For Sale: 2016 Subaru Forester S4 My16 2.5I-L Wagon** Looking for a reliable and spacious SUV? Look no further! This 2016 Subaru Forester S4 My16 2.5I-L Wagon is the perfect blend of comfort, performance, and versatility. With a smooth CVT transmission and advanced all-wheel drive system, you can navigate any terrain with ease. The 2.5L engine delivers a perfect balance of power and fuel efficiency, making it ideal for both city driving and off-road adventures. **Key Features:** - Spacious

$22,998 Excl. Gov. Charges
Edgewater, WA

Dealer used
17 hours ago

Top2015 Subaru Forester MY15 2.5I-L White Continuous Variable Wagon

  • 128389 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

" BOOKS AND EXCELLENT HISTORY, VERY VERY TIDY. We pride ourselves on good old fashioned service and we are dedicated to exceeding your expectations. Call today and allow one of our friendly sales professionals show you how easily this car can become yours. Locally owned and operated since 1992, we stock hundreds of vehicles every week at our undercover 3 acre site, located 90 minutes north of Sydney, 10 minutes from the M1 and just minutes from Newcastles beautiful beaches and cafes. We off

$16,253 Excl. Gov. Charges
Cardiff, NSW

Dealer used
Yesterday

2014 Subaru Forester S4 MY14 2.5i-L Lineartronic AWD White 6 Speed Constant Variable Wagon

  • 217137 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

We have over 300 good quality cars at unbeatable prices, Auto or Manual, SUV or Wagon, Coupe or Convertible, Sunroof , Hatch or Sedan, Petrol or Turbo Diesel, 4x4 or 4x2 All cars are workshop tested, and optional parts and labour warranties are available .• *Pension Finance Available (Single Parent Payments, Parenting Payment, Disability Pension) • *Fee Free, No Interest Loan for Vehicles That Can Be Paid Off with Simple Fortnightly for ppl on Government payments. • *Dealer Charges Apply. •

$14,995 Excl. Gov. Charges
Minchinbury, NSW

Dealer used
15 hours ago

2016 Subaru Forester S4 MY16 2.5i-L CVT AWD White 6 Speed Constant Variable Wagon

  • 97976 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

**For Sale: 2016 Subaru Forester S4 My16 2.5I-L Wagon** Looking for a reliable and spacious SUV? Look no further! This 2016 Subaru Forester S4 My16 2.5I-L Wagon is the perfect blend of comfort, performance, and versatility. With a smooth CVT transmission and advanced all-wheel drive system, you can navigate any terrain with ease. The 2.5L engine delivers a perfect balance of power and fuel efficiency, making it ideal for both city driving and off-road adventures. **Key Features:** - Spacious

$22,998 Excl. Gov. Charges
Edgewater, WA

Dealer used
17 hours ago

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

  • 91219 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

Safety and practicality at its finest. This one owner Forester is in fantastic condition with two keys and a great history! Introducing the 2017 Subaru Forester MY18 2.5i-L AWD: Timeless Design: The 2017 Subaru Forester MY18 2.5i-L AWD boasts a timeless design that combines ruggedness with refinement. Its clean lines, muscular body, and iconic Subaru grille give it a distinct presence on the road, while its raised ride height and AWD capability hint at its adventurous spirit. Reliable Perfor

$24,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Victoria Park, WA

Dealer used
18 hours ago

2016 Subaru Forester S4 MY16 2.5i-L CVT AWD White 6 Speed Constant Variable SUV

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

Buy with confidence knowing when you buy your Pre-Loved Car from us you will drive out with complete peace of mind in a vehicle that has been inspected, tested and approved by our licensed technicians. For your peace of mind our cars come with: 1. 12 Month Roadside Assist. 2. 48-hour Money Back Guarantee. 3. Fixed Price. We have done the research for you, no need to haggle. 4. No immediate expenses or service on your car. Located centrally, only 20 minutes from Melbourne CBD and 10 Minutes fr

$22,940 Drive Away^
Strathmore Heights, VIC

Dealer used
21 hours ago

2014 SUBARU Forester 2.5i-L 2014

  • 214686 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

SUBARU FORESTER WAT A GREAT CAR AT A GREAT PRICE FITTED WITH SAT NAV WITH REAR CAMERA OPTIONAL EYESIGHT RADAR PADDLE SHIFT AUTO CRUISE FULL GENUINE SUBARU SERVICE BOOKS FINISHED IN METALIC WHITE PEAR DUCO ABS LEATHER INTERIOR ALLOY WHEELS ELECTRIC SEATS CLIMATE CONTROL TRACTION CONTROL ABS BRAKES 2 KEYS CENTRAL LOCKING AIR BAGS CD PLAYER ELECTRIC WINDOWS THIS CAR COMES WITH ROADWORTHY CERTIFICATE STAMP DUTY TRANSFER FEE AND WE WILL SERVICE THE CAR BEFORE DELIVERY FOR THE NEW OWNER WE ARE A SMAL

$15,999 Drive Away^
Maidstone, VIC

Dealer used
22 hours ago

2017 Subaru Forester S4 MY18 2.5i-L CVT AWD White 6 Speed Constant Variable SUV

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

Buy with confidence knowing when you buy your Pre-Loved Car from us you will drive out with complete peace of mind in a vehicle that has been inspected, tested and approved by our licensed technicians. For your peace of mind our cars come with: 1. 12 Month Roadside Assist. 2. 48-hour Money Back Guarantee. 3. Fixed Price. We have done the research for you, no need to haggle. 4. No immediate expenses or service on your car. Located centrally, only 20 minutes from Melbourne CBD and 10 Minutes fr

$25,645 Drive Away^
Strathmore Heights, VIC

Dealer used
23 hours ago

2017 Subaru Forester S4 MY17 2.5i-L CVT AWD White 6 Speed Constant Variable SUV

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

Buy with confidence knowing when you buy your Pre-Loved Car from us you will drive out with complete peace of mind in a vehicle that has been inspected, tested and approved by our licensed technicians. For your peace of mind our cars come with: 1. 12 Month Roadside Assist. 2. 48-hour Money Back Guarantee. 3. Fixed Price. We have done the research for you, no need to haggle. 4. No immediate expenses or service on your car. Located centrally, only 20 minutes from Melbourne CBD and 10 Minutes fr

$23,886 Drive Away^
Strathmore Heights, VIC

Dealer used
23 hours ago

2017 Subaru Forester S4 MY17 2.5i-L CVT AWD White 6 Speed Constant Variable Wagon

  • 56044 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

****2017 Subaru Forester 2.5i-L S4**** Key Features: - Full Service History - Two Keys - Cruise Control - Bluetooth Connectivity Other Features: - 5 Star ANCAP Safety Rating - Cargo Cover - Roof Rails - Cloth Interior We put our "Best Price First" and our customers love it! We sell over 150 cars a month. Our high turnovers means we can operate with lower margins, resulting in a better price for you! Each of our vehicles undergo our strict 100-point safety inspection a

$27,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Maddington, WA

Dealer used
Yesterday

2015 Subaru Forester MY15 2.5I-L White Continuous Variable Wagon

  • 128389 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

" BOOKS AND EXCELLENT HISTORY, VERY VERY TIDY. We pride ourselves on good old fashioned service and we are dedicated to exceeding your expectations. Call today and allow one of our friendly sales professionals show you how easily this car can become yours. Locally owned and operated since 1992, we stock hundreds of vehicles every week at our undercover 3 acre site, located 90 minutes north of Sydney, 10 minutes from the M1 and just minutes from Newcastles beautiful beaches and cafes. We off

$16,253 Excl. Gov. Charges
Cardiff, NSW

Dealer used
Yesterday

2015 Subaru Forester S4 MY15 2.5i-L CVT AWD White 6 Speed Constant Variable Wagon

  • 110467 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

The 2015 Subaru Forester S4 MY15 2.5i-L CVT AWD Constant Variable Wagon is a versatile and capable SUV known for its reliable performance, spacious interior, and all-wheel-drive capability. As part of the 2.5i-L trim level, it offers a good balance of features and functionality for everyday driving and outdoor adventures. Powered by a robust 2.5-liter engine paired with a smooth continuously variable transmission (CVT) and Subaru's renowned all-wheel-drive system, the Forester 2.5i-L delivers

$22,500 Excl. Gov. Charges
Bibra Lake, WA

Dealer used
Yesterday

2016 Subaru Forester S4 MY16 2.5i-L CVT AWD White 6 Speed Constant Variable Wagon

  • 153582 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

2016 Subaru Forester S4 MY16 2.5i-L CVT AWD White 6 Speed Constant Variable Wagon

$19,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Wangara, WA

Dealer used
22/04/2024

2017 Subaru Forester S4 MY17 2.5i-L CVT AWD White 6 Speed Constant Variable Wagon

  • 110947 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

# Bought local / Serviced local / Traded privately # Full service history stamped SUBARU # tow bar # cruise control # constant ALL WHEEL DRIVE AWD # June 2024 REGO expiry # FULL SIZE spare Buy with confidence from Newcastle and the Hunters Largest Pre Owned Dealership Over 100 Quality Pre-Owned Vehicles Complimentary Mechanical Protection Plan and Roadside Assistance to Eligible Cars - Ask us about our Easy and Competitive Finance & Insurance - Interstate and Statewide Transport to your d

$24,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Cardiff, NSW

Dealer used
22/04/2024

2017 Subaru Forester MY18 2.5I-L White Continuous Variable Wagon

  • 106143 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

A extremely clean and original Forester 2.5i-L. One owner with a full service history. Clean straight and original. Freight and finance available. Jontom Car Sales. Lismore. www.jontom.com.au

$23,995 Excl. Gov. Charges
Lismore, NSW

Dealer used
22/04/2024

2016 Subaru Forester S4 MY16 2.5i-L CVT AWD White 6 Speed Constant Variable Wagon

  • 219113 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

PERTH THIS SUBARU FORESTER HAS COUNTRY KM'S AND COMPLETE SUBARU SERVICE HISTORY [OTHER THAN THE ONE WE DID]. IMMACULATE THROUGH OUT WITH 2.5 LITRE 4 CYLINDER POWER, AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION, ALL WHEEL DRIVE GRIP, COLD AIR CONDITIONING, CRUISE CONTROL, BLUETOOTH CONNECTIVITY AND ALLOY WHEEL. JUST SERVICED BY US AND IS READY FOR AN IMMEDIATE DELIVERY. ALL TRADE IN'S ARE WELCOME WITH US, WE CAN HELP WITH YOUR CAR FINANCE NEEDS IF REQUIRED AND WE ALSO OFFER WARRANTY EXTENTIONS IF YOU WISH TO PROTECT

$15,965 Excl. Gov. Charges
Attadale, WA

Dealer used
22/04/2024

2017 SUBARU Forester 2.5i-L

  • 156000 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

SUBARU FORESTER 2017 /2,5 IL 4 CYLINDER PETROL / AUTOMATIC /156000 KMS / JUST BEEN SERVICED / WILL COME QLD REGO 23/8/24 /ROADWORTY CERTIFACATE PPSR CLEAR TITLE /WARRANRTY / GOOD TYRES COLD AIR /BLUE TOOTH /CRUIZE CONTROL / REVERSE CAMERA/ PUSH BUTTON START / LANE DEPARTY WARING //NUDGE BAR /LIGHT BAR ./ CLEAN AND TIDY DRIVES WELL /CAN ASSISTE WITH FINANCE / TRADE IN WELCOME /LOCATED ACROSS THE ROAD FROM HUNGRY JACKS NAMBOUR ANY QUESTIONS PLEASE CALL KEV ON

$16,195 Excl. Gov. Charges
Diddillibah, QLD

Dealer used
22/04/2024

2018 Subaru Forester MY18 2.5I-L White Automatic Wagon

  • 72267 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

“New Location Alert! A1 Motors Company from New Town has moved to bigger premises in Moonah at 100-102 Hopkins Street TAS 7009. Visit us for unbeatable deals on quality used cars!” 2018 Subaru Forester MY18 2.5I-L Auto Wagon, 4 Cyl Petrol 2.5L -Full Service History -Two Keys -Reversing Camera -Bluetooth Connectivity -Cruise Control -Automatic Stop/Start -Daytime Running Lights - LED -17 Inch Alloy Wheels -Roof Rails -FOG Lights - Front -Power Mirrors with Indicators -Traction Control System -M

$26,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Moonah, TAS

Dealer used
21/04/2024

2018 Subaru Forester S4 MY18 2.5i-L CVT AWD White 6 Speed Constant Variable Wagon

  • 145441 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

ENQUIRE ONLINE TODAY to secure this 2018 SUBARU FORESTER 2.5I-L AWD AUTO at the SPECIAL INTERNET PRICE (DISCOUNTS HAVE ALREADY BEEN APPLIED). Our quality pre owned vehicles are carefully prepared for sale and presented in excellent condition. Each vehicle has undergone a 110-point vehicle inspection, to ensure our buyers are only buying vehicles free of major accident damage (PPSR available upon request) and in preparing our vehicles for their new owners we can demonstrate that our exacting sta

$24,480 Excl. Gov. Charges
Victoria Park, WA

Dealer used
21/04/2024

2015 SUBARU FORESTER 2.5i-L (AWD) 4D WAGON 2.5L AUTOMATIC 36 MONTHS FREE WARRANTY

  • 197000 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

This tidy Subaru Forester would make a fantastic family vehicle, with plenty of room for the whole family and all of gear, Free 36 Months warranty (Cover parts & Labour Australia Wide) Done 197,000 KMS Variant: 2.5i-L (AWD) Excellent condition i-Stop Reversing Camera Automatic Transmission 2.5 L 4 Cylinder Log Book service history Up to date service Tinted Window --------------------------------------------- - Good Tyres! - Icy Cold AC! - 100% Solid Body! - 100% Sound Engine! -

$15,490 Excl. Gov. Charges
Kenwick, WA

Dealer used
21/04/2024

2017 SUBARU FORESTER 2.5i-L CONTINUOUS VARIABLE 4D WAGON

  • 214026 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

One owner (non smoker) with full service history. Serviced every 6,000km - most recent in February. Driven locally only. New break pads, near new tyres, 2 keys, windows tinted in a darker tint called sunscreen, no accidents, very clean inside and out. Colour is classified as Pearl. Only sign of wear and tear is on the steering wheel. Rego until September 21st, 2024 Selling due to upgrade only. Will accept reasonable and nearest offer. New car already purchased so would like to sell quickly.

$21,500Negotiable
Mullumbimby, NSW

21/04/2024

2016 Subaru Forester S4 MY17 2.5i-L CVT AWD White 6 Speed Constant Variable Wagon

  • 114745 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

ENQUIRE ONLINE TODAY to secure this 2016 SUBARU FORESTER 2.5I-L AWD AUTO at the SPECIAL INTERNET PRICE (DISCOUNTS HAVE ALREADY BEEN APPLIED). Our quality pre owned vehicles are carefully prepared for sale and presented in excellent condition. Each vehicle has undergone a 110-point vehicle inspection, to ensure our buyers are only buying vehicles free of major accident damage (PPSR available upon request) and in preparing our vehicles for their new owners we can demonstrate that our exacting sta

$21,480 Excl. Gov. Charges
Victoria Park, WA

Dealer used
21/04/2024

Urgent

2017 Subaru Forester 2.5i-L Special Edition 4D WAGON

  • 102500 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

Special Edition S4 Subaru Forester MY17. Rego expires March 2025 Negotiable - must sell. Full Service history. Well maintained and always garaged. Second owner, first owned by a church. Used only as a Mums taxi and commute to work in local suburb, hence low Km’s. Replaced 5x tyres late 2023, all wheels are genuine Subaru (spare is same as what’s on vehicle). Replaced battery late 2023, heavy duty stop start type. Genuine Options added; Weather shields. Boot mat and bumper lip protector. Mudfla

$22,900Negotiable
Stanhope Gardens, NSW

21/04/2024

2016 Subaru Forester S4 MY16 2.5i-L CVT AWD White 6 Speed Constant Variable Wagon

  • 175981 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

We're thrilled to present this exceptional 2016 Subaru Forester, a standout in its class for those who demand versatility, reliability, and safety in their driving experience. Boasting a sleek design coupled with the rugged dependability Subaru is renowned for, this Forester promises an unparalleled driving experience, whether navigating urban streets or embracing off-road adventures. Its automatic transmission ensures a smooth, responsive ride, while the spacious interior offers comfort and pr

$16,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Tweed Heads, NSW

Dealer used
21/04/2024

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

  • 202303 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

CALL ANTHONY NOW FOR MORE INFO FINANCE AVAILABLE. We have over 300 good quality cars at unbeatable prices, Auto or Manual, SUV or Wagon, Coupe or Convertible, Sunroof , Hatch or Sedan, Petrol or Turbo Diesel, 4x4 or 4x2 All cars are workshop tested, and optional parts and labour warranties are available .• *Pension Finance Available (Single Parent Payments, Parenting Payment, Disability Pension) • *Fee Free, No Interest Loan for Vehicles That Can Be Paid Off with Simple Fortnightl

$18,995 Excl. Gov. Charges
Minchinbury, NSW

Dealer used
21/04/2024

2013 Subaru Forester 2.5i-L CONTINUOUS VARIABLE 4D WAGON

  • 130000 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

1 owner, wonderful family vehicle kept in pristine condition. Bluetooth capability for hands-free phone calls, Central locking, Rear vision / reversing camera

$16,990
Parramatta, NSW

18/04/2024

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.