Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov & manufacturer data. Figures reflect base trim; actual specs vary by trim level.
About the 2021 Subaru Forester
Our scoring places the 2021 Subaru Forester at 7.7/10 overall, which translates to a Recommended rating for this suv. Its strongest dimension is Safety at 8.8/10, while Performance at 6.3/10 is where it trails the competition most noticeably. It's a solid all-rounder that delivers across most dimensions without obvious deal-breakers.
Reliability and safety are the two dimensions that matter most for long-term ownership costs. At 8.5/10, reliability is one of this suv's best cards — few vehicles in our database score higher on this dimension. The 8.8/10 safety score puts it near the top of the class on this dimension; the official trim-level results at nhtsa.gov are worth a final check.
Performance at 6.3/10 is a genuine liability and a score that should factor heavily into any buying decision. The powertrain and chassis dynamics trail class rivals by a meaningful margin — don't overlook it. Technology scores 6.5/10 — the infotainment and driver-assist features feel dated against current-generation rivals. This is worth weighing if you prioritize connected features or modern safety tech.
Priced from $30,662–$36,914, 26 MPG, seating 5, the Subaru Forester sits in the mid-market bracket of the suv segment. Value is where it presses its advantage — 8.0/10, meaning the feature set and quality outrun the asking price. At 5 years old, it's worth checking whether a newer generation or refresh has addressed any weaker dimensions — compare it to the current model year before buying.
Our take: The 2021 Subaru Forester is a solid, well-rounded suv that covers the essentials without obvious deal-breakers. The main caveat is technology and performance — worth checking if those dimensions are priorities for you. For most buyers in this segment, it's a safe, dependable choice.
Carivo scores are our own editorial assessment, informed by NHTSA safety and recall records, EPA fuel-economy figures, and manufacturer-published specifications. Scores are reviewed periodically and updated when new data becomes available. See our full methodology →
How It Ranks Among SUVs
The 2021 Subaru Forester ranks #564 of 2454 suvs in the Carivo database — better than 77% of the segment. Its 7.7/10 overall score is 0.3 points above the segment average of 7.4/10. Its $30,662 starting price undercuts the segment's median of $36,079 by about 15%.
Smart-money pick: the 2018 Subaru Forester scores 7.5/10 — within striking distance of the 2021's 7.7 — and starts roughly $3,000 lower. If you don't need the newest model year, that's money better spent on a higher trim or kept in your pocket.
Proven long-term reliability — lower unplanned repair costs than class average
Top-tier safety scores across crash tests and driver-assistance tech
Good overall value; holds its own against pricier alternatives in the segment
Versatile body style handles daily commuting and weekend adventures equally well
✗ Where it falls short
Performance is a genuine liability — well below class rivals and worth factoring into any decision
Tech suite is functional but lags behind segment-best options; some features cost extra
Common Questions — 2021 Subaru Forester
Is the 2021 Subaru Forester reliable?
We rate the 2021 Subaru Forester's reliability 8.5/10 — one of the stronger records in its class.
Is the 2021 Subaru Forester worth buying?
It scores 7.7/10 overall, ranking #564 of 2454 suvs in our database (better than 77% of the segment). A solid choice for most buyers — compare it against the segment leaders before deciding.
How much does the 2021 Subaru Forester cost?
The 2021 Subaru Forester starts at $30,662 and ranges up to $36,914 across trims (MSRP when new). At 26 MPG, expect roughly $2,019/year in fuel at 15,000 miles/year.
Owner Essentials — Subaru Forester
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More Subaru Reviews
Explore the full lineup of Subaru models scored by Carivo — ranked by overall score across reliability, safety, value, performance, and technology.
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