Subaru Forester 2019-2024: what to know before you buy?

The sixth-generation Subaru Forester is now on the road. As with its predecessors, the evolution is rather conservative and strategic. As a result, those shopping for a used Forester won't feel like they're making a big compromise or going out of fashion.

If you're thinking about it, read on to find out more about the 2019 to 2024 Subaru Forester...

First of all, it's worth mentioning that this fifth-generation Forester has benefited from a new, stiffer platform and increased practicality. For example, it boasts a much wider trunk opening and an electric tailgate that opens and closes more quickly than its predecessors. The trunk itself boasts a good volume and can exceed 2,100 liters by folding the rear bench, which is very accommodating.

Under the hood, to the regret of power lovers, the turbo engine has been abandoned in favor of a naturally-aspirated 2.5-liter four-cylinder producing 182 hp and 176 lb-ft of torque, mated to a continuously-variable transmission. The advantage is fuel economy: this Forester burns an average of only 8.2 L/100 km. And I don't need to remind you that it's powered by Subaru's excellent constant-mesh all-wheel drive system.

Towing capacity is limited to 1,500 lb, enough for small jobs but not enough to pull a trailer. For that, there's the Forester Wilderness added in 2022, capable of towing up to 3,000 lbs. However, this model is primarily aimed at drivers who regularly venture off the beaten track and drive in deep snow in winter, with off-road tires, increased ground clearance and adapted suspension (not to mention easier-to-clean interior linings). Fuel consumption rises to 9 L/100 km. Do you need one?

At this point, it's worth pointing out that the 2019 to 2024 Forester range is available in seven versions: Basic, Convenience, Touring, Sport, Wilderness, Limited and Premier. Currently, on the pre-owned market, prices range roughly from $20,000 to almost $40,000, although there are a large number of quality examples under $30,000.

From 2020, the EyeSight safety system has become standard on all versions. A device that triggers an audible and visual warning to prompt the driver to check the rear seat before getting out has been added to this. In addition, the Convenience version gained automatic braking in reverse.

For 2022, Subaru gave all Forester models a few cosmetic tweaks, new colors and an updated EyeSight system. A year later, some minor equipment revisions have appeared.

While Forester's road-holding is remarkable and its visibility exceptional, some reproach it for lagging performance, a lack of feeling, an under-equipped base version, a basic interior finish and a noisy engine stop-start system. The multimedia system is annoyingly slow. As for Subaru's reputation for abusive oil consumption, this has been less the case since 2019.

Last but not least, four safety recalls have been issued for the fifth-generation Forester. Two are for 2019 models (crankcase gas recirculation valve potentially failing and rear sway bar possibly loosening) and two are for 2024 models (coolant hose connection bolts possibly incorrectly tightened and front wheel shafts that may not have been manufactured correctly). Make sure you have corrected the problem on the model you're interested in, if applicable.

Good shopping!