The Good
The 2019 Subaru Forester excels in reliability and safety, appealing to practical buyers. Its comfortable ride and spacious interior enhance daily usability. Standard all-wheel drive provides confidence in various conditions, resonating with those seeking adventure. Fuel efficiency is competitive, further boosting its value proposition. The updated design offers a modern aesthetic.
The Bad
The 2019 Forester's acceleration can feel underwhelming for some drivers, especially when fully loaded. The continuously variable transmission (CVT), while efficient, may not appeal to those seeking a more engaging driving experience. Some owners have reported issues with the infotainment system, so test it thoroughly. Watch out for potential battery drain problems.
2019 Subaru Forester: Quick Overview
- Engine Options: 2.5-liter 4-cylinder BOXER engine
- Horsepower: 182 hp
- Fuel Economy:
- City: 26 mpg
- Highway: 33 mpg
- Combined: 29 mpg
- 0-60 Times: Approximately 9.0 seconds
- Towing Capacity: 1,500 lbs
- Trim-Level Features:
- Base: Standard AWD, EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, 6.5-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
- Premium: Adds panoramic sunroof, alloy wheels, heated front seats, Wi-Fi capability, and upgraded sound system.
- Sport: Unique styling elements (orange accents), X-Mode drive settings, and blind-spot detection.
- Limited: Leather upholstery, power rear gate, heated rear seats, and 8-inch touchscreen.
- Touring: All Limited features plus navigation, driver monitoring system, and upgraded leather.
Note: All trims come standard with Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive.
2019 Subaru Forester Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2019 |
| Make | Subaru |
| Model | Forester |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Wagon |
| Category | Minivan Medium Truck |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Japan |
| Manufacturing City | - |
Dimensions
| Doors | - |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | - |
| Engine Size | - |
| Engine Cylinders | - |
| Transmission | - |
| Transmission Type | - |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | All-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
History Check
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Check
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Listings
Recalls
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2019 Subaru Forester Have?
There have been recalls related to the PCV valve which, if it fails, can cause engine damage and increase the risk of a crash. Battery drain has also been a reported concern, potentially requiring replacement sooner than expected. While Subaru generally has a good reputation for reliability, the CVT transmission is something to monitor over the long term, as some owners of Subaru vehicles with CVTs have experienced issues requiring repair or replacement at higher mileages. Before purchasing, review the vehicle history report for any recall repairs or maintenance records related to these potential issues. Subaru did issue a recall in 2019 which affected certain Forester models due to a faulty rear suspension component that could detach, increasing the risk of an accident. Regular maintenance, especially fluid changes for the CVT, is crucial for long-term reliability.
How long will the 2019 Subaru Forester last?
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Safety features include seven airbags, stability control, and traction control. Optional features include a driver monitoring system that alerts the driver if they are drowsy or distracted. The 2019 Forester received excellent crash-test ratings from both the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) and the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety). The IIHS awarded it a "Top Safety Pick+" designation. These ratings reflect the Forester's strong performance in crash tests and its advanced safety technology.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2019 Subaru Forester Prices and Market Value
2019 Subaru Forester Cost of Ownership
2019 Subaru Forester Fuel Efficiency
2019 Subaru Forester Safety Rating
NHTSA
2019 Subaru Forester Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2019 Subaru Forester Compare to Other Wagon?
In terms of reliability, the Forester is generally on par with the RAV4 and CR-V. Price-wise, it's competitive within the segment. If all-wheel drive is not a priority, the Honda CR-V might be a better alternative due to its slightly better fuel economy and comparable reliability. The Mazda CX-5 appeals to those prioritizing driving enjoyment and a more premium feel, while the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid offers superior fuel economy. Each of these options are good alternatives depending on individual needs and preferences.
Ranks #373 SUV
| 1 | 2023 Toyota 4Runner | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid | (5.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 Lexus GX | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV | (0.0★) |
| 5 | 2024 Subaru Crosstrek | (5.0★) |
| 6 | 2024 BMW iX | (0.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Ford Bronco Sport | (3.0★) |
| 8 | 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQB | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2024 Chevrolet Trax | (5.0★) |
| 10 | 2023 Audi A4 allroad | (0.0★) |
| 11 | 2023 Hyundai Kona N | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2023 Nissan ARIYA | (5.0★) |
| 373 | 2019 Subaru Forester | (5.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2019 Subaru Forester a Good Wagon?
Brenda on September 11, 2023
Visor issuesWithin a year of having the car, both my visors broke I’ve never had a car with my visors broke. The back left sometimes open sometimes doesn’t. I don’t like the car.
Dan B. on July 11, 2023
2019 Forester—Spontaneous major windshield crack2019 Forester —The windshield gave a loud pop and spontaneously cracked from the edge through the driver’s side... This is serious manufacturing defect. There was no one in front of me and no rocks or objects hit the windshield. This is a well known defect for which there has a large class action lawsuit. Subaru refuses to take responsibility and sent me to the dealer for a “pen†test. Great way to avoid paying for replacement since the dealer’s pen felt some roughness and said a rock hit it. Absolutely not- It cracked on it’s own. We currently own two Subarus. The 2019 has had multiple recalls, a defective battery that would not hold a charge (Also known defect) and the dealer hassled me to replace it under warranty. It’s one thing for a car not to start but having windshield’s crack on their own is dangerous and can be life threatening. Also, in our case the car has eyesight system which requires calibration when the windshield is replaced. That is expensive and may not work properly after replacement. For car manufacturer that touts “LOVE†customer support has been evasive, and the dealer service uncooperative for this well known defect. This a serious safety issue and is not uncommon. It apparently affects some other years as well. Saving face and denying responsibility in order to save money is not the way to go Subaru. People can any may have died due to your manufacturing defect. Is Subaru’s profits worth putting human life at risk? Yeah, use the word love to sell your vehicles but when issues like this occur, show your dark, profit driven dark side. Don’t be hypocritical Subaru, do the right thing. Think about this before you buy a Subaru
Sharia on June 13, 2023
Factory defects that Subaru won't fixI have had a few problems. Some recalls that were fixed but some issues they are refusing to fix since over the 3 yr warranty. I am having paint top coat peeling on some plastic parts which is due to them not doing it correctly at the factory. Also my leather seat ripping at the seams which they won't fix. I will not buy another Subaru . My next car will be a Mazda. The best feature of the Subaru is the touch screen for many features like ph calls and radio and a great large screen for road maps/directions . If it didn't have that I would get rid of it though I do plan on buying a Mazda within the next 2 years.
JM on April 12, 2023
Happy Demanding CustomerI’ve driven the Forester before and have been wanting one for two years. So now that it was time for me to give up my 2010 Legacy with 222,000 miles on it, I chose the Forester. The dealer is very customer friendly and very competitive in their pricing, even though I paid 25K plus for a four year old car…vestiges of the used car pandemic pricing. The car drives beautifully, smooth and quiet. I am very happy with my purchase.
JYL0101 on March 28, 2023
Subaru are making bad quality cars now.I leased a 2019 Subaru Forester Limited. I bought the car at the end of the lease since car prices are ridiculous at that moment. The auto on and off caused the car to stall 3 times (2 on highway, 2 on local street). The AVH caused the car to stall 2 (on local street). 6 months after I bought out of my lease all lights went on. Heat does not work. Oil temp goes up to 139 while water temp is at cold. Many are telling me it's a TCV problem. This is a nightmare and I feel like something is going to go wrong any second.
Lisa NH on May 30, 2021
Amazing car for the priceLove my Forester only drawback is the tires are made of a soft compound and you only get 25k miles then they need to be replaced.
Earl Wall on May 14, 2021
this 2019 Forester is number four for the family aWe own three Foresters in my family. They all are super cars in any weathers and we have never had any problems with them. We do all service work at the dealership and have been really happy with them.
Chica on April 16, 2021
Great vehicleI love my new Forester. This vehicle has a CD player which is great. Two negatives. I own the mid model and an automatic trunk latch is not offered. Trunk opens so high that I had to buy a stool to use to close the trunk if the vehicle is on higher ground. You cannot adjust trunk height on the mid line model. Center console does not move. I am petite and my elbow was dragging without a comfortable armrest. I had to buy a separate component on Amazon to remedy the issue. The vehicle drives like a dream. I feel very safe. I love the colors that Subaru offers. I also like the mission of the company.
Bob r on January 31, 2021
This car is goodThis car is good, my wife loves it ,I see a lot of things that could be better the defrosters could work better the console could be more roomy
subaru2019 on October 12, 2020
beautiful AWD suvlove this car. A really smooth good AWD vehicle. Really good cars for road trip with friends and great AWD for trails. Really happy with this car
Eugene S
Eugene is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. As a writer at VINCheck.info, he brings deep industry insight and a passion for cars, helping readers make smart, informed decisions. Eugene has written hundreds of used car reviews and is known for breaking down complex automotive topics into clear, actionable advice. Over the years, he has driven and worked on a wide range of vehicles—starting with tuning street cars in his early days and eventually focusing on performance upgrades and reliability improvements. Today, he specializes in evaluating used vehicles through the lens of real-world ownership and enthusiast needs. A longtime fan of Porsche, Eugene especially appreciates vehicles that blend durability with driving enjoyment.