Is the 2025 Subaru Forester a good car?
An honest AI verdict — reliability, common problems, and real cost to own.
B+7.5/10
Overall, the 2025 Subaru Forester Premium is a solid choice for those seeking safety and practicality with good fuel economy, but it doesn't have the most engaging drive in its class.
Get the full AI verdict — free
Pros
- Spacious cabin and cargo area
- Excellent visibility
- Standard AWD
Cons
- Slow acceleration
- Noisy at highway speeds
- Limited engine options
Ownership at a glance
Fuel economy
26 mpg
Maintenance cost
$1,000/yr
Expected lifespan
200,000 miles
Common problems to watch for
- Infotainment system bugs
- Occasional CVT hesitations
- Minor electronic glitches
CarsJudge exclusive data
Active recalls (2)
The 2025 Subaru Forester has 2 NHTSA recalls on record. Most recent: Child Seat (campaign 25V419000). All recall repairs are free at any authorized dealer.
- Wheels — Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2025 Forester vehicles equipped with 18" aluminum alloy wheels. The wheels may have been manufactured with an incorrectly specified lug seat surface, which can resul…
- Child Seat — Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2025 Forester vehicles. The child seat anchor bolts may have been improperly tightened, allowing the bolts to come loose.…
Recall data: NHTSA. Owner costs & MPG: anonymized aggregates from CarsJudge users who track this vehicle. Updated 2026-07-05.
Compare similar cars
This AI-generated assessment is general guidance only, not a substitute for a professional inspection. Always inspect a used vehicle before purchase.