2020 Subaru Forester Review: Dependable Small SUV With Reasonable Maintenance Costs

Alex Showalter
Mar 15, 2023

The 2020 Subaru Forester lasts around 250,000 miles with some minor windshield and battery issues reported. At $22,449 to $35,998, it’s expensive, but worth the money for one of the best compact SUVs on the market with all-wheel drive.

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likeFilled The Good
There’s plenty of room for cargo and passengers, the engine is efficient and the cabin is very comfortable.
dislikeFilled The Bad
The engine is weaker than other small SUVs, it can’t tow much weight and the stereo system controls are finicky.

Is the 2020 Subaru Forester a Good Used SUV?

  • Overall Rating 8/10 – 2020 is a good year for the Subaru Forester since it’s reliable while also offering great practicality. Owner reviews praise the low fuel costs, all-wheel drive system in the snow, along with the advanced standard safety technology.
  • Interior, Comfort & Cargo 8/10 – Interior materials are high-quality for a small SUV, the seats are comfortable on longer trips, cargo space is also good for its size.
  • Reliability 8/10 – There are no widespread complaints on the 2020 Forester. Models from 20142015 have engine problems, while 20162022 are much more dependable.
  • Performance 7/10 – Performance is okay from the four-cylinder engine, although the Forester is not very exciting to drive since it’s more focused on efficiency.
  • Safety 10/10 – The 2020 Forester is very safe, earning a perfect 5-star rating in government crash tests. It comes standard with adaptive cruise control, lane centering, along with a rearview camera. Optional upgrades include a driver attention monitor.
  • Gas Mileage 9/10 – Fuel economy is great at up to 29 MPG, giving 480 miles of range out of the 16.6 gallon tank. Gas costs are $56 cheaper than average, at $152 per month.
  • Value 9/10 – The 2020 Subaru Forester is more expensive than some other small SUVs, although slow depreciation makes it a great long-term value.

Positive Owner Reviews

accountCircle Krista S
Subaru forester is great for families.
The forester is really comfortable and we love the height of the interior. Having a toddler means a lot of getting in and out of a car seat and the forester has been perfect. We also enjoy the gas mileage in this size vehicle. Additionally, the ride is smooth and the technology is up to date.
accountCircle Sally M
Absolutely would purchase again.
I find my Subaru to be comfortable, especially with the heated seats and heated steering wheel. The quality of the speakers is amazing (harmon kardon). These cars have giant moon roofs, so fun. On long trips there is minimal road noise and the car handles well.
accountCircle Lindsay B
I love my forester and these are the reasons why!
I have only had this vehicle for a few days, but I honestly cannot find one thing wrong with it. I constantly look forward to the next time I need to go somewhere so I can drive my car. The car rides and drives really nicely and is extremely comfortable and spacious. I love the press button start and the blind spot detection. I also love the large display screen.
accountCircle Maryanne P
Comfortable and reliable!
The car is great and does well in various weather conditions. I wish some of the technology was more advanced but the safety features are important. The car is reliable and comfortable. I like the seats and ability to pull down the seats and how easy it is to put a car seat in the car. I wish the trunk came with a weather mat.
accountCircle Brian M
Love my forester to the mountains and back.
I have had no problems with the car, I love it, it is super easy to figure just about anything out. Electronics are great, apple carplay is a complete game changer. My only complaint is the seat belt cover and the red lights in the car, everything else rules.
accountCircle Natalie B
2020 Subaru forester review.
I love having 4 wheel drive. The car has paced cruise control and lane assistance which makes me feel safe when driving. There is enough space in the backseat for passengers to sit comfortably and enough space in the trunk for larger loads. I only wish that the car had rear air vents for passengers sitting in the back.
accountCircle Talia S
Safety, style, and affordability.
It drives very nicely. It is brand new so I haven't noticed any performance problems yet. Very spacious and feels safe to drive. I will most likely tint the back windows as living in a city, you do not want people to be able to see into your car. I have the most basic model and it is still pretty high tech and gives me all the features that I need.
accountCircle Barbara K
Love my Subaru. So very happy I purchased it.
I hate the automatic shut-off stall feature. There should be a way to permanently bypass it-and not have to turn it off every single time you get in the car. That is the only thing that I can think of that I do not like about the car. The one thing I love is when it is in cruise control and it has the peacekeeper so you stay exactly that far behind the car in front of you.

Negative Owner Reviews

accountCircle Steven B
All the details of the car are in there!
The auto / self-driving is a really cool tool. It is a bit scary, but works well enough. It has a really good sunroof, drives well enough. But, it is also smaller than what my truck was, so I do not like that. The tech in it is cool, I like the apple car play quite a bit. The Sirius XM radio is great, I really like Margaritaville radio. Let's see, what I do not like... To small, can be a bit bumpy, handles well. Seats are comfy, lots of dirt and stuff seems to go into the dash and does not wipe off good.
accountCircle Jane R
Subaru 2020 Forrester needs some resign work on the interior.
The car rides really nicely. Very quiet. My issues are knee room when I am driving (not enough), so I have to keep the seat back further than I’d like. Also, grabbing the seat belts in the front seats is difficult. They get stuck between the seat and wall. The middle console offers little room for two cell phones, and the ups plug is deep in the console so it is hard to use.
accountCircle Sarah D
Beautiful SUV, but small.
We love everything about it, we made the mistake buying a smaller SUV this time, instead of what we usually get, witch is a full size SUV for our needs. There is 3 of us now also a walker to take each time we leave the home with her, and on certain other days we are picking up others for a lift.
accountCircle Ken Gram
Getting heat to the rear seat area of my 2020 Subaru Forester Limited model
I am really impressed with my Forester but one thing we noticed is there’s very little heat coming out of the vents in the rear seat area and we haven’t been able to increase this at all which results in a cold ride in the backseats. I hope that this problem can be fixed or improved upon.
accountCircle shar G
Safety features? Not so much.
The backup camera is totally useless in the rain. It does not beep or let you know that you are close to something when you are backing up and almost hit it! The regular radio is not always clear it is static. Also the side detector/lane departure beeping is not loud enough.
accountCircle alyssa A
It's a bronze color that has a masculine feel that looks great for girls too.
I love the exterior of the car. It's very sporty and the perfect size for my needs. The seats are comfortable but I hate the gaps between the front seats and center console that allows things to drop between. My biggest complaint in the computer system noises. All the time. I don't like when the car locks my wheel or tries to move me around in a lane. The assisted driving is more distracting than helpful. I prefer a classic turn key car. The braking system that breaks when it senses a car in front of you gives me more anxiety and panic than if I actually had to stop on my own. There's a lot of excessive gadgets the car has that I personally think are unnecessary. Subaru is safe but I would prefer if it make itself more user friendly and less annoying with the constant noises and assisted driving. It's like driving in the car with your nagging mother sometimes. I would like to not get so angry at my own car. There should be options to disable the features in the computer system. On a brighter note, I do think my car is beautiful and I love the color I chose, it's a stone-bronze like color that looks cool edgy and sporty with the shape of the car. One thing to note, I don't enjoy the automatic trunk door that you can't just slam shut. Maybe I just prefer simpler cars that I can be a little rougher on.
accountCircle Joseph T
A practical and useful vehicle but not a very attractive one from my standpoint.
The eyesight system is useful and probably offers the most comprehensive set of safety features available on medium priced vehicles. At low speeds the vehicle is relatively quiet and of course the 4 wheel drive system offers some peace of mind during snowy/icy weather. The major faults for me are that when pressing the accelerator very hard, the engine is extremely noisy and the gas mileage is rather atrocious, in my opinion--I still have not reached 27 mpg. Another nit is that the automatic transmission sometimes seems quite jerky as though it has not been adjusted properly.
accountCircle Jennifer S
Honest review of pros of this 2020 Subaru.
I haven't been able to drive the car because since I got it I have been working from home and only going to the grocery store. I think that I need to take a road trip to really test the car but it has good safety ratings and the trunk is roomy. My trips to the grocery store have gone well because I have enough space in my trunk.

What Do Critics Say About the Subaru Forester?

  • Consumer Reports says the 2020 Subaru Forester is a very sensible small SUV with a roomy interior, and high owner satisfaction scores.
  • Edmunds rates the Forester at 4.6/5, praising the off-road capabilities with the high suspension, but doesn’t like the weaker engine.
  • Kelley Blue Book users give the Forester a 4.4/5, enjoying the very efficient engine, but owners don’t like the low towing capacity at only 1,500 pounds.

What Common Problems Does the 2020 Subaru Forester Have?

Common problems with the 2020 Subaru Forester include cracked windshields, the battery draining in a few days, and the automatic tailgate opening unexpectedly. Overall, these problems are relatively minor for a compact SUV, leading to relatively low repair costs as the Forester ages.

Cracked windshields are the most widespread complaint from 2020 Forester owners in the first 10,000 miles. There are some glass production issues which have caused several windshields to be more prone to cracking. Replacing the windshield costs around $750, depending on local labor rates.

The battery draining in a few days is another issue reported by Forester owners in the first 1,000 miles. There are a lot of electrical accessories in the Forester, and some of them drain the battery while the vehicle is off. Diagnosing the source of the draw costs around $75, while fixing it can cost $5 to $150.

The automatic tailgate opening unexpectedly also shows up on some Forester models in the first 5,000 miles. The sensor is located on the bottom of the rear bumper, and if it becomes very dirty it may open. Cleaning off the sensor usually solves the problem.

There are no recalls on the 2020 Subaru Forester, which is better than some other small SUVs. Having no recalls means that none of the issues with the Forester are widespread or affect safety.

How Long Will the 2020 Subaru Forester Last?

A well-maintained 2020 Subaru Forester can last around 250,000 miles, which is only slightly shorter than the long-lasting Toyota RAV4. Regular annual maintenance costs are similar to other small SUVs, according to data provided by Repair Pal, at $503 per year.

As a used 2020 Forester reaches 100,000 miles owners should be prepared to replace the radiator hose for $185, spark plug wires costing $200, along with the front lower control arms, which cost $750.

accountCircle Nicole C

I haven't had any problems with my vehicle. So far it is very reliable and gets me to where I need to go. I have no complaints.

accountCircle Jim H

Yes, no problems as yet. I have only had it for a month so you would not expect a problem this soon.

How Is the Technology?

Entertainment technology is very good in the 2020 Subaru Forester since it has a standard 6.5-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Optional upgrades include a larger 8-inch touchscreen along with a more powerful stereo system.

Safety technology is excellent for a small SUV offering standard features including:

  • Lane departure warning
  • Rear seat reminder
  • Lane keep assist
  • Rearview camera
  • Automatic emergency braking
  • Lane Centering
  • Lead vehicle start alert
  • Pre-collision throttle-management
  • Adaptive cruise control
  • Pre-collision braking

Optional available driver assistance features include:

  • Lane change alert
  • Blind spot monitoring
  • Driver attention monitor
  • Adaptive headlights
  • Reverse automatic braking
  • Rear cross traffic alert
  • Automatic high-beam headlights

Is the 2020 Subaru Forester a Good Value?

Yes, the 2020 Subaru Forester is a good value since it’s reliable with a great all-wheel drive system. The blue book fair purchase price ranges from $22,449 to $35,998, making it more than a Hyundai Tucson or Nissan Rogue. When new, the price range was $24,495 to $34,595. Depreciation is better than other small SUVs, only losing about 5% of its current value per year.

What are the Different Models of the Subaru Forester?

There are five models of the 2020 Subaru Forester offered from the entry-level Base all the way through to the luxurious Touring. The Forester comes standard with all-wheel drive on all models.

Base is the entry-level model with:

  • 17-Inch Steel Wheels
  • All-Season Tires
  • Automatic Climate Control
  • Cloth Seats
  • Rearview Camera
  • 5-Inch Touchscreen
  • Four-Speaker Stereo System
  • Satellite Radio

Premium is a step up, adding:

  • 17-Inch Alloy Wheels
  • Panoramic Sunroof
  • Raised Roof Rails
  • Power-Adjustable Driver’s Seat
  • Hill Descent Control
  • Heated Seats
  • Windshield Wiper De-Icer
  • Heated Side Mirrors

Sport is next in the lineup with:

  • 18-Inch Black Wheels
  • LED Fog Lights
  • Orange Interior and Exterior Accents
  • X-Mode Traction System
  • Paddle Shifters

Limited has more features including:

  • Adaptive Headlights
  • Dual-Zone Automatic Climate Control
  • 8-Inch Touchscreen
  • Leather Upholstery
  • Power Liftgate

Touring is the flagship model which adds:

  • Power Adjustable Passenger Seat
  • Heated Steering Wheel
  • Premium Leather Upholster
  • Heated Rear Seats
  • Driver Distraction Monitoring System
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What Engines Come In the Subaru Forester?

The engine found in the 2020 Subaru Forester is an average 2.5L 4-cylinder which makes 182 horsepower at up to 29 MPG. It’s paired with a standard continuously variable automatic transmission. Performance is okay, taking 8.4 seconds to go from 0-60 MPH.

What Colors Does the Subaru Forester Come In?

How Comfortable Is the Subaru Forester?

The 2020 Subaru Forester is known for its comfortable and spacious interior. The cabin is well-designed and offers ample room for both passengers and cargo. The seats are supportive and provide a comfortable ride, even on long journeys.

One of the standout features of the Forester’s interior is the amount of space it provides. The rear seats offer plenty of legroom and headroom, even for taller passengers. This makes it a great choice for families or anyone who needs to transport multiple passengers regularly.

The Forester also offers a quiet and smooth ride. The suspension system is well-tuned and absorbs bumps and road imperfections with ease. This results in a comfortable and stable ride, even on rough or uneven roads. Overall, the 2020 Subaru Forester is a comfortable and spacious SUV that offers plenty of features to enhance passenger comfort.

How Much Storage Space Does the Subaru Forester Have?

The 2020 Subaru Forester is a spacious compact SUV with enough room for plenty of cargo. When the rear seats are up, the Forester has 31.1 cubic feet of cargo space. This is a generous amount of storage space that can easily accommodate groceries, luggage, and other everyday items.

When you fold down the rear seats, the Forester’s cargo capacity expands significantly to 76.1 cubic feet. This is enough space to haul large items like furniture or sporting equipment, or to pack everything you need for a weekend getaway.

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What Are the Differences Between Years?

The fifth generation of the Subaru Forester came out for the 2019 model year.

2015: 18-inch wheels offered, rearview camera is standard on all models.

2016: New stereo system with a 6.2-inch or 7-inch screen, depending on the model.

2017: EyeSight safety system updated to add lane departure intervention.

2018: Black edition offered with darker trim and wheels.

2019: Fully redesigned for the fifth generation with more room, better safety technology, and a stronger engine.

2020:  Standard lane-centering assistance, all-weather package added to Premium model.

2021: Standard automatic high beams on all models.

How Does the Subaru Forester Compare to the Competition?

The 2020 Subaru Forester is an excellent compact SUV since it comes standard with all-wheel drive and more advanced safety features than most of the competition.

The Subaru Outback is a larger SUV offered by Subaru which costs around $2,500 more. Passenger room is better in the Subaru Outback, while the Subaru Forester handles off-road trails better. We recommend the Subaru Outback for most people since it’s a more practical SUV, although both are good choices worth test driving.

The Toyota RAV4 is another small SUV which costs around $4,000 more. Long-term ownership costs are lower on the Toyota RAV4, while the Subaru Forester’s all-wheel drive system is more advanced. We recommend the Toyota RAV4, yet it’s worth test driving both to see which you prefer since they are very similar.

Ranks #6 Compact SUV by Owners

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Do Owners Recommend the Subaru Forester?

accountCircle Nicole C

Yes this vehicle is fantastic! It has all the bells, whistles and safety features. The ride is so smooth and comfy.

accountCircle Jim H

Yes most definitely. I have enjoyed this vehicle. It is the third Subaru that I have owned and everyone has proven to be a perfect car for my family.

Owner Reviews

accountCircle VISHAM on December 2, 2023
Need some advice
I have a 2020 touring with 25000mile it just locked up and I crashed into guard rails just wondering what happened next because the insurance said they might total it
accountCircle Kiersten O on June 24, 2021
All around amazing vehicle.
The back seats are very spacious for multiple children and for adults, while also having a very large trunk space. Very smooth ride, the shocks are durable! I feel safe driving it on a regular basis with my child in the car. The adaptive cruise control and lane keep assist is amazing for long road trips. It is all around a great performing vehicle.
accountCircle Stephanie D on June 20, 2021
Great for female drivers!
I am a short woman and it is hard to find cars where I can sit comfortably. The Subaru forester is a perfect comfortable fit for me. My back doesn't hurt, my feet reach the ground, and the steering wheel is adjustable to where it is at the perfect length. I feel very safe and comfortable driving this vehicle.
accountCircle Susan H on June 15, 2021
Overall pleased - except for a few minor issues.
So far have been very pleased - only feature I do not care for is the car cuts off when you stop (something to save gas) very annoying. The dealership is great to work with. The safety features are wonderful already saved me from being in an accident. Gas mileage is good so far.
accountCircle Rachel F on June 13, 2021
Safe stylish family vehicle.
The Subaru forester has many safety features that make me feel extra secure in using this as my family vehicle. The forester sport has an extra flare and features to help for trips up north and off road for camping. We were unsure if we'd have enough space for the family but this vehicle has been perfect, spacious and plenty of room for all of our cargo.
accountCircle Renee T on June 11, 2021
The adventure mobile: great style, great function.
Reliable car in the winter snow in the northeast. Comfortable seating with ample leg room and plenty of space in the back to transport groceries and large items. Nice display for media. Has Sirius radio and apple CarPlay. Great navigation on the display so I do not have to look at my phone.
accountCircle Rick T on June 7, 2021
The safest car I have ever driven.
It is not really a problem,but, there are so many feature that it takes a little while to learn them all without your car manual beside you. The car is amazing. The design engineers have done fantastic job. The warning light when something is behind you has kept me from hitting a pedestrian in a store parking lot twice,
accountCircle Breann B on June 7, 2021
Lane assist driving and does not let you take grams off the wheel.
I have not had any problems yet. Free oil changes through Subaru are amazing! Drives good and the lane assist is great! Back up camera is super helpful! Good for long road trips. Do not care for the feature where it turns off at a stop. Radio/speakers work perfectly.
accountCircle Ashley N on June 3, 2021
Amazingly luxurious and safe.
I am in love with my forester. It is spacious and comfortable at the same time. It drives so smoothly and has plenty of features to keep you safe while on the road! As well as a sunroof and big windows to keep a clear view ahead. I love that it has apple carplay as well as starlink.
accountCircle John T on June 3, 2021
Safety on the road. The safest car I have ever owned. Has so many features.
This car is the safest car I have ever owned. I've had it in sand without getting stuck, handles as good as a sports car, and safety features are amazing. The cruise control keeps you at a safe distance and will even stop the car and then start you on your way again without touching brake or accelerator.
accountCircle Zack H on June 2, 2021
Ahead of the pack: Subaru is the best deal.
The vehicle is incredibly reliable, fuel efficient, and comfortable. The trim level is very versatile, and the interior is conducive for pets. I highly recommend the Subaru forester. The price for the base model is extremely affordable. I will purchase this vehicle again in the future.
accountCircle Breanna C on May 22, 2021
Choose a subaru forester!
Subarus in general are great in the winter. I went from an impreza to a forester and I absolutely loved both models. The forester is a larger version which is great for a growing family. It has a back up camera and great safety features. It also gets great miles per gallon.
accountCircle Danielle L on May 21, 2021
Great vehicle! Highly recommend.
Very comfortable and stylish on the inside. I have not had any problems with it yet! It would be nice if the outside was a bit more 'beefy,' but that is just the Subaru look for the foresters at the moment. It handles great in the snow and has options for both mud and snow depth. It has a good amount of features that allow you to personalize the vehicle to your liking.
accountCircle Jennifer Y on May 19, 2021
The Subaru forester reliability and comfort.
The vehicle is impressive in terms of its performance and reliability particularly because of the censor when you come too close with other vehicles, and the fact that the front lights automatically turn on when the engine is. As to comfort, I must say it has enough space for a family, but would be better if it would have more elbow room especially when there is a car seat installed, because it limits moving space. Nevertheless, it is still spacious enough for seating when there is a car seat. It would also help if it has cup or drink coasters inside the car which makes it comfortable for long drives and for eating inside to prevent spillage.
accountCircle Desiree C on May 9, 2021
It comes with apple car play, and have seat warmers.
I have had issues with the four wheel drive during the winter. You can turn it on but I think it is an issue after you turn it on that it decides if you actually need the four wheel to be on. I haven’t had any issues with anything on the car. It is been great.
accountCircle Meagan M on May 9, 2021
Safety, style, simplicity, Subaru.
I purchased my 2020 Subaru forester just over one year ago and have decided that I will never own anything except a Subaru! I love the way the car drives, the way it handles on the road (and off the road!), the safety features of the car, and so much more!
accountCircle Gina K on May 5, 2021
Great car but some questionable features.
The Subaru forester is very comfortable, stylish, and reliable. I am very happy with my purchase! However the reason I rated the Forrester a 4/5 is because of 3 minor, albeit very annoying, features. The first is that whenever you are on a phone call or someone calls you and you accept, you no longer have access to your digital speedometer. Rather, in place of the digital speedometer, a message saying “call in progress” pops up... Yeah because I need to know when I am on the phone versus what speed I am going...! Second, the Subaru will not hold your preferred driving settings. For example I prefer driving in the sport mode and have to adjust the mode each time I start my car. Lastly, the cruise control only increases in increments of 5 mph. Again, these are the only issues I have with this car and they are minor in the grand scheme of things, but it makes me wonder how Subaru thought these features would be 1) user friendly and 2) helpful in any way.
accountCircle Amanda D on May 2, 2021
Vehicle is extremely safe both on paved road and off road.
The cars drivability is extremely smooth. My husband and I have been on several long drives out to the mountains since purchasing this vehicle. Once we get off of regular pavement the suspension holds up very well after hitting a pothole on accident we barely felt it like it didn't even happen. Our dogs love the extra room and it's perfect for our little one on the way. I feel safe in the car and feel much better putting a baby in the vehicle.
accountCircle Amanda P on April 30, 2021
Excellent safety features.
It is an excellent car the best car I ever had and owned. Excellent in the snow. Love all the safety features. Good in the snow rain or sleet. Love the heated seats moonroof.Subaru has the most safety features even more than a BMW or Mercedes.I would highly recommend this car to anyone. Loves the eyesight feature.
accountCircle Rori P on April 29, 2021
My smooth safe and pretty SUV.
I love the new car design. It drives smooth. The issue I have is that is feels like it stalls and the engine revs up while waiting at a light. The interior is made of cloth and leather which I love. The wheels on the car are very cool. The car is very good with gas. I fill up once a week.
accountCircle Steven B on April 28, 2021
All the details of the car are in there!
The auto / self-driving is a really cool tool. It is a bit scary, but works well enough. It has a really good sunroof, drives well enough. But, it is also smaller than what my truck was, so I do not like that. The tech in it is cool, I like the apple car play quite a bit. The Sirius XM radio is great, I really like Margaritaville radio. Let's see, what I do not like... To small, can be a bit bumpy, handles well. Seats are comfy, lots of dirt and stuff seems to go into the dash and does not wipe off good.
accountCircle Hannah C on April 20, 2021
This car has so many safety features.
This is such a safe car! It is good for a family up to 4 people but would be pretty small beyond that. I wish the base model came with more updated features like push-to-start engine and at least a factory tint on the windows. I love the rubber floor mats. They're so easy to clean up and the adaptive cruise control and lane keep feature is awesome!
accountCircle Chris G on April 20, 2021
The complete package. Sport, comfort & safety.
Great pickup, smooth ride. Love the handling, I can really feel it. Technology is fantastic, makes me feel safe. Great stereo, lots of options for music. No problems as of yet. I previously had a 2014 forester limited, and only bought a new one because I drive a lot of miles.
accountCircle Grace B on April 17, 2021
Good performance and good gas mileage.
Good performance and good gas mileage. It is very reliable and comfortable. Since it is a 2020 I have not has any issue so far... I will definitely recommend it to. My friends and family members to buy. I wish it has a GPS installed in the car. That is my only complaint.
accountCircle Rachel Y on April 14, 2021
Great safe and reliable vehicle.
It is a very safe and comfortable vehicle. It comes with many technology features that I love like the back up camera, the automatic hatch, and the adaptive cruise control. It is very comfortable both to be inside and how it rides on the road. It handles the rough Michigan roads extremely well and also feels safe for winter driving.
accountCircle Howard B on April 8, 2021
Plus mechanically, minus style.
I chose it because it received the highest rating in its class from consumer reports. The only thing I really do not like about it is its style. It is very boxy. Not much style. But, so far, it is very good mechanically. It handles very well and it has very good pick up.
accountCircle Joan McKenzie on April 8, 2021
Seam problems on seat covers
For the most part I like the Forester but I recently had it detailed and the shampooing left me with two seams fraying in the back seat! I’ve had this car only a year and the service people suggested it was probably my dog that caused it. But the two incidences of fraying show no tear and they are happening IN EXACTLY THE SAME PLACE ON EACH REAR SEAT. I don’t know a dog who thinks through where his/her paw is going to land! I saw and know that this was an issue with the lack of sufficient material for the seam allowances or a failure to finish the seams to prevent fraying. Either way this is an issue in production, not in west and tear. The service manager very kindly agreed to replace the fabric on the back seat but would not acknowledge that this might be a Subaru problem, not mine. I’ve bought a seat protector against this happening in the future but wanted to warn others of the possible problem.
accountCircle Kristen T on April 7, 2021
Why the 2020 Subaru forester is perfect for you.
The base model Subaru forester is perfect for me. The dashboard helps me be more environmentally friendly, keeping my mpg easily accessible. The engine shuts down at stop lights, saving on emissions and helping the planet. My favorite part, is the wide windshield. In most cars, I get in and feel like there are many blind spots where the windshield and frame of the car meet. In the forester, I can see clearly and safely. This car is built to be environmentally friendly while never compromising on comfort. The engine has some kick to it, making you feel like you are driving a powerful car. The interior is beautiful and easy to maintain, even with dogs! There is a lot of trunk space and the back seats easily fold down with just a pull of a knob, giving you even more room for all of your outdoor equipment or even just groceries. This car is perfect for families, pet owners, and adventurers.
accountCircle Destiny C on April 1, 2021
Great vehicle. Good for snow and has nice uphill speed. Great gas mileage.
I have a 2020 Subaru forester. I have only had the car for two months and I absolutely love it. I live in a state where it snows a lot and it drives great in the snow. The vehicle drives so smooth especially on the freeway. It also has great uphill speed. The seats are so comfy. My favorite feature about the vehicle is the rear view camera for when I am backing up. I haven't had any problems with the vehicle yet. All together it is a lovely car.
accountCircle Leah M on April 1, 2021
Pacific Northwest dream vehicle.
We love the power in the engine, the smoothness in the ride, comfort, and space! We love our Subaru! This vehicle is perfect for day trips and/or road trips! You can fill the car with camping gear, kids, pets, move your stuff, run your business all out of this amazing vehicle!
accountCircle Sandra R on March 29, 2021
Subaru manageability and style.
No problems. It is safe, comfortable, handles well in all conditions. Solid car. I love the way it handles. I turns are easy. Acceleration is excellent. The blind spots alerts help too. Very safe car. The cargo space is wonderful. Just bought a TV console. And it fit perfectly in the back.
accountCircle Billdred Q on March 25, 2021
Subaru forester 2020, excellent car all around.
This car is extremely reliable, comfortable and easy to drive. It does exceptionally well in the snow, it also has good visibility and plenty of storage. The safety features work well and have prevented an accident or complication more than once. The features are customizable, modern, and state of the art. Could not recommend this car enough.
accountCircle Brian M on March 25, 2021
Love my forester to the mountains and back.
I have had no problems with the car, I love it, it is super easy to figure just about anything out. Electronics are great, apple carplay is a complete game changer. My only complaint is the seat belt cover and the red lights in the car, everything else rules.
accountCircle Yuuka S on March 24, 2021
Subaru forester review 2020.
Has features to save gas, spacious, seats are not the most adjustable but are enough. Air conditioning works quickly and well. The touch screen panel works efficiently and is easy to see things. Car drives smoothly in most conditions. Trunk is spacious enough as well and seats have enough space and are comfortable for all passengers.
accountCircle Michelle H on March 23, 2021
Going from a sedan to an SUV is a big change.
Just purchased the car so I have no problems yet the lane drift alert is irritating and I Haven't figured out if I can turn it off. It would have been nice to have an easy lift hatchback. The console seems off to me I feel like the cup holder should be up front not at the back of the console.
accountCircle Natalie B on March 23, 2021
2020 Subaru forester review.
I love having 4 wheel drive. The car has paced cruise control and lane assistance which makes me feel safe when driving. There is enough space in the backseat for passengers to sit comfortably and enough space in the trunk for larger loads. I only wish that the car had rear air vents for passengers sitting in the back.
accountCircle Megan A on March 21, 2021
Safety and style, amazing on long road trips and short rides.
Great handling and power. My Subaru has amazing safety features such as keeping you in your lane and maintaining a distance from cars in front of you. I love the ability to use apple carplay and play my music through the car. The back seats fold down extremely easy. The safety features and the great ride make me love this car.
accountCircle Cody V on March 19, 2021
2020 Subaru forester sport.
No problems whatsoever so far. I have only owned it for 1 year and have put 6000 miles on it. I am especially pleased with the safety features on my forester. Eyesight front collision prevention, lane departure warning, lane-keeping assist, rear collision prevention, and blind-spot monitoring. The 2020 forester seems larger than its predecessors, pepper, and gets better mileage. How do they do this? Subaru clearly listens to its customers, and this is reflected in each year's improvements. It is this attention to detail that will keep me a loyal customer.
accountCircle Kailey H on March 14, 2021
I have starlink so I can call for help in an accident.
I love my car. It has amazing mpg, and safety features. I feel like it is dependable, and the safest car I have ever owned. I also have the starlink package which is even more helpful and an amazing safety and security feature. I can call for help at any time, and I have roadside assistance.
accountCircle Lamin K on March 13, 2021
Safety features, latest technologies system and ride smoothly.
I love it is recent technology and great features. Ride smooth, has onstar, I can start my car from my phone. Great safety features, hands free call, and so on. Speaker system sound I love it, sunroof is widespread compared to others. Has flooded head light, it can alert you when you go off your lane. Rear view drive camera roll nice.
accountCircle Meg B on March 6, 2021
2020 Subaru forester touring package has everything you need in a small SUV!
This car has several features that make driving much more comfortable and enjoyable. My favorite feature is the auto dimming side and rear view mirrors. This is wonderful when driving at night. There are countless safety features such as blind spot detection, reverse and forward automatic braking, eyesight detection, etc. There are also several features for comfort such as heated seats, heated steering wheel, dual air conditioning, power seats, etc. I also love the sunroof! This car is very enjoyable to drive and I have had no regrets since purchasing.
accountCircle Tannia M on March 4, 2021
Awesome looks and amazing technology.
No problems so far, it has been a pleasure to drive and has a huge sunroof. Love the extra leg room and power driver seat. The power gate is awesome and I love the interior. The color combo of grey and orange is amazing and looks sleek. The black rims make it look really nice.
accountCircle Danielle M on March 4, 2021
One of a kind SUV crossover with tons of features!
This car is a dream! It drives and handles well. The adaptive cruise control is awesome. I love not having to start and stop the car in traffic or cruising on the freeway. The adaptive steering is great too but I prefer to have my hands on the wheel. The large windows and huge sunroof are a game changer, so much light and easy to see. The backup camera is clear and easy to use. I would recommend this car to anyone. It is my first SUV and it is easy to drive. The seats are comfortable and well made.
accountCircle Kate S on March 3, 2021
Great Subaru forester 2020.
No problems. Seats are very comfortable with ability to adjust. Technology upgrades are great and provide a sense of security. I haven't had any problems with the car thus far.
accountCircle Aviann C on March 1, 2021
Spacious but overly cautious!
The forester is spacious and was really selected because I will now have two children. Something that is a drawback for me is the stopping mechanism it does at every stop light. Also I consider myself a safe driver but the safety assets that stops your car if you get too close to another car can be quite a pain when trying to switch lanes.
accountCircle Isabella N on February 26, 2021
The Subaru car and my favorite things about it.
It is very roomy and has a lot of space. Great on gas and very safe. The car itself is very nice looking and have many designs and inside is interior. The heating is good and has seat warmers. Bright lights are a little dim but still works. The sound system is also loud and great. The trunk is kind of small but still has a lot of room to pack stuff.
accountCircle Mai Y on February 23, 2021
It is easy to drive even it is a big car.
It is easy to drive and put stuffs for my kids. I like how they navigate I am online when I am driving etc. I like the camera feature too. It is been nice parking places. The seats are really comfortable too. I also like the phone feature that when I plug the phone I can see the GPS also listen the music.
accountCircle Katie W on February 17, 2021
Forester - the safe option.
The enhanced safety features with the car make it feel very safe to drive. It is a smooth and comfortable ride with a great sound system included in the sport model. I wish there was more space in the center console, but it was not a deal breaker for my purchasing decision.
accountCircle Tino I on February 17, 2021
You get a lot more for your money here than you would with anyone else.
Car is great, it is comfortable, drives perfect,, gas mileage is also great, I am getting around 27mpg, the only issues I have with the car, and is not a deal breaker, at least for me, is horse power, is not fast, the other is, no wireless android auto, other than that I am super happy with the car,
accountCircle Molly B on February 8, 2021
Moonroof, makes the car feel much bigger than it actually is and nice breeze.
I have had no problems with my car. I have loved every second of leasing my forester. I got the car to have a bigger space to start a family, but have enjoyed some of the other upgrades such as the moonroof and apple play. My dogs also love the back of the car with their dog bed.
accountCircle Kalyn T on February 6, 2021
Subaru forester great for families.
Smooth ride with lots of legroom. I like how high off the road it is. Sunroof for the kids and cloth seats in leather trim. Extremely safe. Mine is black and looks sharp. Subarus have great resale value. The remote start feature is convenient, especially with kids. You can heat and cool the car ahead of time and the app will remember your last setting every time you start the car.
avatar Alex Showalter
Alex is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. He brings a wealth of knowledge to Vehicle History as our Staff Writer and has written hundreds of used car reviews helping buyers make informed purchasing decisions. He is a member of the Automotive Press Association, and keeps up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry. Over the years, he has driven hundreds of cars, working on many of them. His mechanical experience evolved from modifying off-road trucks as a teen to focusing on automotive electrical systems as he got older. He now specializes in reviewing used cars as an automotive journalist. Some of his favorite brands are Toyota and BMW. The Toyota Land Cruiser is one of his favorite vehicles of all time since they’re built to last forever and can go anywhere. One of his current cars is a Lexus LX570, built on the same platform as the 200-series Land Cruiser, but it’s a better value in the used market.