beebs
Skip to main content

2013 Subaru Forester review

Research, photos, specs, and expertise

Subaru Forester highlights

Customer rating

RepairPal reliability rating

Mileage (EPA estimate)

19 city, 24 highway, 21 combined

Pricing for current inventory

(no current inventory)

View our Subaru Forester inventory
Lighting bolt logo
Can an EV fit my lifestyle? Image of woman on smartphone while charging an EV

Does an EV fit my lifestyle?

On this page

Find your Forester
then buy online or in-store

Learn more about getting pre-qualified with no impact to your credit score
Price
Year
Mileage
Search our Forester inventorySearch for a different car

Shop with your budget in mind

Getting pre-qualified lets you shop with personalized monthly payments, and it doesn't impact your credit score.

Get Pre-qualified

All Subaru Forester years

Not sure what year to select? Learn about each Subaru Forester generation from 2013 to 2026

What is new for the 2013 Subaru Forester?

  • Enhanced safety features including automatic emergency braking and lane departure warning
  • Improved fuel efficiency with a new engine option
  • Updated infotainment system with larger touchscreen and better connectivity
  • New trim levels introduced for more customization options

Shop with your budget in mind

Getting pre-qualified lets you shop with personalized monthly payments, and it doesn't impact your credit score.

Get Pre-qualified

Ratings & reliability

Customer ratings

4.1 out of 5

7 customer reviews
The 2013 Subaru Forester receives praise for its smooth handling, reliability, and great visibility, making it versatile for various weather conditions. Downsides include cabin noise, underwhelming technology, and average fuel efficiency. Spacious interior and strong safety features appeal to families, while maintenance costs can be steep.

RepairPal reliability rating

3
1
2
Above Average

RepairPal gave the Subaru Forester an overall reliability rating of 3.5 out of 5 stars, which RepairPal describes as Above Average. This rating ranks Subaru Forester 22nd out of 29 among Compact SUVs.

View RepairPal's full rating of the Subaru Forester

Subaru Forester features and specs

Curious how Subaru Forester trims differ? Use our side-by-side vehicle comparison to see the differences and similarities

2.5XT Touring 4D Sport Utility 4WD/AWD

Standard Features

  • Heated Mirrors
  • ABS Brakes
  • Air Conditioning
  • Cruise Control
  • Front Seat Heaters
  • Leather Seats
  • Overhead Airbags
  • Panoramic Sunroof
  • Power Locks
  • Power Mirrors
  • Power Seat(s)
  • Power Windows
  • Rear Defroster
  • Rear View Camera
  • Side Airbags
  • Traction Control
  • Alloy Wheels
  • 4WD/AWD
  • Automatic Transmission
  • Turbo Charged Engine
  • Bluetooth Technology
  • AM/FM Stereo
  • Auxiliary Audio Input
  • CD Audio

Optional Features

  • Parking Sensors
  • Full Roof Rack
  • Bluetooth Technology
  • Navigation System
  • Satellite Radio Ready

Drive Wheels

All Wheel Drive (4WD/AWD)

Engine size

2.5L

Horsepower

224

Torque (ft-lbs)

226

Engine type

Turbo Gas

Fuel capacity

16.9

Wheelbase

103"

Overall length

179.5"

Width

70.1"

Height

66.9"

Leg room

F 43.1"/R 38"

Head room

F 40"/R 37.7"

Front tires

P225/55HR17

Rear tires

P225/55HR17

Seating capacity

5

Max towing capacity

360/2400 lbs.

Transmission

Automatic

2013 Subaru Forester FAQ

The 2013 Subaru Forester has a maximum towing capacity of 2400 pounds, when properly equipped. Various factors may impact towing capacity, including weight of passengers, cargo, and options/accessories.
The 2013 Subaru Forester has received an average 4.1 out of 5 stars from our customers. If you're in the market for a 2013 Subaru Forester, check out reviews from customers just like you. 2013 Subaru Forester Reviews.
The Subaru Forester received a rating of 3.5 out of 5 stars from RepairPal, which RepairPal describes as Above Average. This rating ranks the Subaru Forester as 22 out of 29 among Compact SUV
Here are the pros and cons of the 2013 Subaru Forester: Pros - Ride and Handling - Interior Space - Reliability Cons - Cabin Noise - Fuel Economy - Technology and Entertainment
Here is what's new for the 2013 Subaru Forester:
  • Parking Sensors
The 2013 Subaru Forester offers the following fuel efficiency options: • Gas: 21 city / 27 highway MPG (2.5X trim) • Gas: 21 city / 27 highway MPG (2.5X Limited trim) • Gas: 21 city / 27 highway MPG (2.5X Premium trim) • Gas: 21 city / 27 highway MPG (2.5X Touring trim) • Gas: 19 city / 24 highway MPG (2.5XT Premium trim) • Gas: 19 city / 24 highway MPG (2.5XT Touring trim) Actual mileage may vary based on driving conditions, vehicle condition, and driving habits.

Subaru Forester articles

You Like the Nissan Rogue, But What Else Is There? 11 Nissan Rogue Alternatives: Abstract | CarMax

11 SUVs Similar to the Nissan Rogue

The Nissan Rogue is a popular compact SUV because it's good at just about everything. But what else is out there, and can the competition offer more than the value-conscious Rogue? We take a look at some alternatives to the Nissan Rogue.
SUV Size Guide: How Much Does Your Family Really Need?: Abstract | CarMax

SUV Size Guide: How Much Does Your Family Really Need?

There are a ton of different SUVs to choose from, and it seems they come in all sizes. We break them into four categories and explain which SUV size is right for which buyer.
Best Used AWD SUVs for 2023: Hero | CarMax

Best Used AWD SUVs for 2023

If you're the adventurous type, an AWD SUV will suit you down to the ground—no matter how rough that ground is. To help you choose what's best for you, check out our list of the best AWD SUVs for 2023 shoppers.
Best AWD Cars: Abstract | CarMax

Best AWD Cars

When you need the best traction available in bad weather, mud, or dirt, an AWD car gives you the grip you need to be confident. Check out our list of the ten best AWD cars for 2022 shoppers, based on CarMax vehicle and sales data.
The Best All-in-One Vehicles for Summer Camping

The Best All-in-One Vehicles for Summer Camping

RVs and camper trailers are great for summer camping transportation needs, but there are less expensive ways to get out into nature. Edmunds recommends five vehicles across five categories that can serve as both your daily driver and campsite transport.

Want to view more trending articles?

Research other vehicles


* Price excludes tax, title, tags and $999 CarMax processing fee (not required by law). Price assumes that final purchase will be made in the State of VA, unless vehicle is non-transferable. Vehicle subject to prior sale. Applicable transfer fees are due in advance of vehicle delivery and are separate from sales transactions. Limited warranty is 30 days. See store for details. We make every effort to provide accurate information, but please verify before purchasing.

We hope you found this information helpful. This content is intended to inform and is not meant to indicate that a particular vehicle is currently available or recommended for you.​

Statements of fuel economy or EV range are based on EPA and other third-party estimates for vehicles when new. Fuel economy and EV range will degrade with time and vary based on age, driving conditions, vehicle history, and other conditions. See fueleconomy.gov for more info.

Unless otherwise noted, information related to featured vehicles comes from third-party sources, including manufacturer information. Product and company names may be trademarks or registered trademarks of third-party entities. Use of them does not imply any affiliation with or endorsement by these entities.​ By clicking on any video links, you will be taken to a third-party site maintained by YouTube, Inc.

We make every effort to provide accurate information, but please verify before purchasing.