Used Subaru Forester for sale nearBallymena

CarGurus expert rating: 3 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 5.0 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 27.7%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 4.1 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 100
Average Price: Around £34,000

Subaru Forester (2018-2024) Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Handles wet and wintery weather with ease, thanks to permanent four-wheel drive	The petrol engine is short on power
Roomy for people and their luggage	Expensive to buy as a new car
Excellent safety standards	Poor fuel economy and emissions

Quick Summary

The Subaru Forester (2018-2024) is a comfortable and roomy family SUV that blends estate-car styling with genuine off-road capability. This fifth-generation model is longer and wider than its predecessors, offering plenty of head- and legroom for all passengers. With 520 litres of boot space and rear seats that fold flat for extra capacity, it's highly practical for families and adventurers alike. The sophisticated all-wheel-drive system and X-Mode settings make it genuinely capable in challenging weather and off-road conditions, whilst Hill Descent Control adds confidence on steep terrain.

The e-Boxer hybrid powertrain combines a 2.0-litre petrol engine with electric assistance, offering three driving modes for various conditions. However, with only 148bhp and 145lb ft of torque, performance is modest, and real-world fuel economy of around 34.7mpg is disappointing for a hybrid. The Lineartronic CVT gearbox is competent, though the car's high new price and uncompetitive running costs make it more appealing as a used purchase. Comprehensive equipment levels and excellent Euro NCAP safety ratings are reassuring, but most buyers would find better value in rivals like the Kia Sportage or Skoda Karoq.

Best for: Buyers seeking a capable all-weather SUV with genuine off-road ability, families prioritising space and safety, and those in regions with harsh winters or challenging terrain.

Not ideal for: Drivers wanting spirited performance, those seeking excellent fuel economy, or budget-conscious buyers looking for the best value in the compact SUV segment.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the Forester if: You need genuine all-weather and off-road capability, prioritise space and safety, or live in regions with harsh winters or challenging terrain.

Consider alternatives if: You want spirited performance, excellent fuel economy, or the best value in the compact SUV segment.

Competitive Position: The Subaru Forester is a capable and well-equipped SUV that excels in all-weather driving and off-road situations. However, it struggles to compete on value and efficiency. The Skoda Karoq offers superior ratings and better value, whilst the Kia Sportage provides comparable capability at a lower cost. The Mazda CX-5 sits between these options. For most buyers, the Forester's high price, modest performance, and poor fuel economy make it a harder sell than its rivals, despite its genuine strengths in comfort, space, and safety.

Read our full Subaru Forester Review

*The Overall CarGurus rating: that informs these recommendations is based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from October 2026, CarGurus expert reviews, and CarGurus user reviews.