Used Subaru Forester for Sale in Australia

The used Subaru Forester has earned a consistent place on the shortlists of practical-minded Australian SUV buyers, and it earns that through a specific set of strengths rather than segment-wide averages. Symmetrical all-wheel drive standard across the range, an upright roofline that gives it more headroom than most comparable mid-size SUVs, and a reputation for long-term durability make the used Forester a genuine contender for families, regional drivers, and buyers who want AWD without step-up pricing.

Why choose a used Subaru Forester?

The Forester's most noticeable advantage over competitors in the mid-size SUV segment is cabin space relative to exterior footprint. The upright, boxy roofline means rear headroom is generous where it matters, and the wide door openings make getting in and out easier for older passengers and child seat installation simpler than on lower-slung alternatives. Visibility from the driver's seat is notably good, with a high seating position and slim pillars that reduce blind spots.

Symmetrical AWD is standard on all Forester variants, not an upgrade option. Subaru's mechanical setup distributes drive to all four wheels through an identical driveline on both sides, providing consistent traction on wet roads, loose surfaces, and the kind of mixed-condition driving that Australian regional and coastal buyers deal with regularly. On later models, the e-BOXER mild hybrid system pairs the naturally aspirated petrol engine with a small electric motor, adding a fuel efficiency advantage in low-speed and suburban driving.

Buyers comparing the used Forester against alternatives should consider the used Mazda CX-5, used Toyota RAV4, and used Kia Sportage. The Forester generally holds an advantage on standard AWD, headroom, and visibility in this segment, at the cost of some styling polish and infotainment sophistication compared to newer Korean and Japanese rivals.

Subaru Forester generations available in Australia

SJ generation: The SJ Subaru Forester covered the period from 2013 to 2018. Standard variants used a naturally aspirated 2.0-litre petrol engine with the Lineartronic CVT; the 2.0XT introduced a turbocharged engine for buyers who wanted more performance from the same body. These models are the more affordable end of the second hand Subaru Forester market and remain a sound buy with a documented service history.

SK generation: The SK Subaru Forester launched in Australia in 2018 and brought a more refined interior, updated EyeSight driver assistance as standard on most trims, and the option of the e-BOXER hybrid system pairing a 2.0-litre engine with an electric motor. The 2.5-litre naturally aspirated engine is the most common variant. SK models represent the more current and technology-rich end of the used Forester market.

What to look for when buying a used Forester

Service history is the single most important thing to verify on any second hand Subaru Forester. The Forester's naturally aspirated engines are robust with proper maintenance, but rely on timely oil changes. Turbocharged XT variants are more sensitive: neglected oil intervals on forced-induction engines accelerate wear faster than on naturally aspirated units.

On any Forester with the Lineartronic CVT, look for a service record that shows regular fluid changes. CVTs on Subarus are generally reliable but tend to show wear earlier on cars that have been used for consistent towing or driven with a neglected fluid history. If a tow bar is fitted, ask directly about towing history and confirm the transmission has been serviced accordingly.

On SK-generation models fitted with EyeSight, check whether the windscreen has ever been replaced. EyeSight uses a forward-facing stereo camera mounted at the top of the windscreen; replacement requires professional recalibration, and an uncalibrated system may not function correctly. Tyre wear should also be checked across all four corners: uneven wear can suggest alignment or suspension issues worth investigating before purchase.

Every used Subaru Forester at Carma goes through the NRMA-verified inspection and reconditioning process before listing, with condition imperfections photographed and disclosed on the vehicle page.

Frequently asked questions

Is a used Subaru Forester a good family car?

The Subaru Forester is a practical family SUV with several features that stand out in its segment. The upright roofline delivers more rear headroom than most similarly priced mid-size SUVs, rear legroom is comfortable for adults, and the wide door openings make child seat installation and loading straightforward. The Forester is a five-seat vehicle; buyers who need a third row should consider a larger seven-seat SUV. Symmetrical AWD is standard on all variants, which adds a safety margin in mixed-condition driving.

What is the difference between the Subaru Forester and Subaru Outback?

The Forester is a mid-size SUV designed around everyday family use, with a smaller exterior footprint that suits urban driving and parking. The used Subaru Outback is a larger wagon-crossover with more cargo volume, greater ground clearance, and stronger towing credentials. The Outback suits buyers who prioritise load capacity and longer touring; the Forester suits buyers who need a practical family SUV with AWD for everyday and weekend use.

Does the Subaru Forester have a hybrid option?

Later SK-generation Foresters are available with the e-BOXER system, which combines a 2.0-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine with a small electric motor. This is a mild hybrid rather than a self-charging hybrid; the electric motor assists during low-speed driving and regenerates under braking, contributing to fuel efficiency in suburban conditions. The e-BOXER is not a plug-in hybrid and does not offer meaningful electric-only driving range.

What is EyeSight on the Subaru Forester?

EyeSight is Subaru's driver assistance suite, which uses a pair of forward-facing cameras to deliver adaptive cruise control, pre-collision braking, lane departure warning, and lane centring assistance. It became standard equipment on most SK-generation Forester variants. EyeSight is a camera-based system rather than radar-based, which means windscreen replacement requires professional recalibration to maintain correct function.

How much can a used Subaru Forester tow?

Towing capacity varies by variant and generation. As a general guide, e-BOXER hybrid variants are rated at 1,200 kg braked, while standard petrol variants are rated for up to 1,800 kg braked depending on the specific model and year. Buyers with specific towing requirements should always verify the exact rated capacity for the individual vehicle against its compliance plate or owner's manual.

Can I finance a used Subaru Forester through Carma?

Yes. Carma's car finance is available across all used Subaru Forester models on the platform. Applications are completed online, same-day approval is available, and checking eligibility has no impact on credit score. Four lenders are on the panel to suit a range of buyer situations.

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The used Subaru Forester suits buyers who want an AWD family SUV that delivers on substance rather than style. Browse Subaru second hand cars across the full range at Carma, or explore the broader used Subaru lineup. Buyers stepping up from a compact crossover may also want to compare the used Subaru XV before committing, or browse used AWD cars across all makes to compare beyond the Subaru range.