Best SUV under $45,000
Subaru Forester 2.5i
In 2000, the Subaru Forester won the Best Recreational Vehicle category in our Australia’s Best Cars awards and went on to take honours again in 2001, 2002, 2003 and 2006.
This fourth generation Forester was launched in early 2013 and designers looked to enhance and build on the model’s strong foundations of safety, everyday drivability, and on and off-road prowess. The result is equal class leading scores for practicality and environment and an above average score for space.
Our winner is powered by Subaru’s larger 2.5-litre boxer petrol engine matched to a CVT transmission, which delivers an ADR combined average fuel consumption of 8.1 litres/100km. Smaller 2.0-litre petrol and diesel versions are available for those seeking the absolute best in fuel economy.
Subaru’s CVT one of the better versions going around and the new Forester scores well for smoothness and quietness, normally the Achilles heel for this type of transmission.
On road, the Forester has always been a standout and its strengths lie in its car-like feel in ride and handling. That hasn’t compromised its off-road ability and, with 220mm of ground clearance, the Forester can tackle off-road scenarios that would stop many in their tracks.
View scoresheet
Indicative Drive Away Price: $36,805
Criteria out of 10 – Subaru Forester 2.5i
| Value for
Money |
Rating |
| Pricing |
5C |
| Depreciation |
5M |
| Running Costs |
6H |
| Fuel Consumption |
5C |
| Warranty and dealer access |
4H |
| Insurance |
7L |
| Standard Features |
6M |
| Design and
Function |
Rating |
| Safety |
7C |
| Environment |
9C |
| Comfort |
7H |
| Space |
7M |
| Practicality |
9H |
| Ergonomics |
8H |
| Build and Finish |
8H |
| On the
Road |
Rating |
| Performance |
8M |
| Ride |
8M |
| Handling |
8H |
| Braking |
8H |
| Smoothness and Quietness |
8L |
| Off-road ability |
9M |
Note: Level of weighting importance for each score: L = Low, M = Medium, H = High, C =
Critical.