beebs
Skip to main content

2019 Subaru Forester review

Research, photos, specs, and expertise
7 photos

Subaru Forester highlights

Customer rating

RepairPal reliability rating

Pros

  • High cargo capacity
  • High ground clearance and standard all-wheel drive
  • Plenty of driver-assistance features

Cons

  • Unappealing exterior design
  • Turbo engine and manual transmission no longer offered
  • No upscale or luxury interior options

Mileage (EPA estimate)

26 city, 33 highway, 29 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

7 photos

Find your Forester
then buy online or in-store

Learn more about getting pre-qualified with no impact to your credit score
Price
Year
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 2012 to 2026

What is new for the 2019 Subaru Forester?

  • Trim Added: Sport Edition for enhanced performance.
  • Trim Discontinued: Base model retired due to low demand.
  • Standard Equipment on all: Now includes advanced safety features.
  • New Equipment: All models now come with upgraded infotainment system.

2019 Subaru Forester trims

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

2.5I:

2.5I Premium:

2.5I Sport:

2.5I Limited:

2.5I Touring:

Subaru Forester photos

5 reasons to buy the 2019 Subaru Forester

1. Ready for any weather

There's a reason why Subarus are endlessly popular in snowy climates. With standard all-wheel drive on every 2019 Subaru Forester, you can feel confident driving in any conditions the road throws at you, year-round. Whether you're navigating snow and ice or bumping along dirt roads to get to your favorite campsite, the 2019 Forester is up for the job.

2. Family-friendly

The 2019 Forester may be a compact SUV but has space for all your friends and family inside. The Forester was redesigned for 2019, adding even more interior and cargo space. Even when all five seats are full on long road trips and weekends away, everyone has plenty of elbow room—maybe even enough to keep the kids from arguing. If your little ones are still in car seats, you'll appreciate that the 2019 Forester can fit three in the back row.

3. Driver-assist features

Everyone likes a little extra peace of mind on the road, and the 2019 Forester can deliver. Subaru's EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology, which provides emergency braking, is standard on all 2019 Foresters. Higher trims also offer distracted- and drowsy-driver monitoring to ensure you're in tip-top condition to drive.

4. Ready to off-road

If you love to camp or kayak away from others, the 2019 Forester can get you to all your favorite hidden spots; the standard all-wheel drive is helpful here. All but the base trim also come with hill descent control to provide extra stability during off-road adventures. You'll find roof racks—perfect for kayaks or ski gear—on all 2019 Foresters except the base model, making it easy to take all the equipment you need, no matter your hobbies.

5. Standard tech features

The 2019 redesign added more standard technology features to the Subaru Forester. All 2019 Foresters come with a display screen that's at least 6.5 inches. The infotainment system also includes Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ integration to keep you connected to your favorite podcasts and playlists. Plus, two USB ports ensure you never run out of charge.

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

4.5 out of 5

21 customer reviews
The 2019 Subaru Forester is praised for its spacious interior and cargo capacity, smooth handling, and fuel efficiency, making it suitable for diverse weather conditions. However, some owners noted cabin noise and technology usability issues as drawbacks. Reliability is generally positive though minor issues like lift gate malfunctions were reported.

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

2.5I Touring 4D Sport Utility 4WD/AWD

Standard Features

  • Power Windows
  • Smart Key
  • Front Seat Heaters
  • Power Seat(s)
  • Power Mirrors
  • Heated Steering Wheel
  • Traction Control
  • Memory Seat(s)
  • Automated Cruise Control
  • Rear Defroster
  • Blind Spot Monitor
  • Panoramic Sunroof
  • Rear View Camera
  • Power Locks
  • Side Airbags
  • Air Conditioning
  • Parking Sensors
  • Rear Seat Heaters
  • Lane Departure Warning
  • Leather Seats
  • ABS Brakes
  • Overhead Airbags
  • Heated Mirrors
  • Alloy Wheels
  • Power Hatch/Deck Lid
  • 4WD/AWD
  • Automatic Transmission
  • Auxiliary Audio Input
  • Bluetooth Technology
  • Apple CarPlay
  • Harman Kardon Sound
  • AM/FM Stereo
  • Navigation System
  • Satellite Radio Ready
  • CD Audio
  • Android Auto

Optional Features

  • Remote Start
  • Tow Hitch
  • Full Roof Rack
  • Rockford Fosgate Sound

Drive Wheels

All Wheel Drive (4WD/AWD)

Engine size

2.5L

Horsepower

182

Torque (ft-lbs)

176

Engine type

Gas

Fuel capacity

16.6

Wheelbase

105.1"

Overall length

182.1"

Width

71.5"

Height

68.1"

Leg room

F 43.3"/R 39.4"

Head room

F 40.2"/R 37.7"

Front tires

P225/55HR18

Rear tires

P225/55HR18

Seating capacity

5

Max towing capacity

150/1500 lbs.

Transmission

Automatic

2019 Subaru Forester FAQ

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 taxes, title, registration, and fees. Applicable transfer fees are due in advance of vehicle delivery and are separate from sales transactions.

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.