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2021 Subaru Forester

2021 Subaru Forester

SUV
all wheel drive
regular unleaded
Horsepower
182 hp
MPG Combined
MSRP
$24,795
Torque
176 lb-ft
Reliability Score
83/ 100Excellent
Based on 265 NHTSA complaints

Should You Buy a 2021 Subaru Forester?

The 2021 Subaru Forester is a compact SUV that excels in versatility and practicality, making it an excellent choice for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. With a spacious interior that comfortably seats five and a fuel-efficient 2.5L flat 4-cylinder engine, it delivers a commendable 29 MPG combined. Priced at an MSRP of $24,795, it offers all-wheel drive as standard, enhancing its capability in various weather conditions. However, potential buyers should be aware of some common complaints, particularly related to visibility and electrical issues, which have been reported in the early mileage range of 0-20,000 miles.

Despite these concerns, the Forester boasts a solid reliability score of 83/100, indicating that it is generally dependable. Its blend of safety features, spacious cargo area, and off-road capabilities make it a practical choice for those who prioritize both comfort and adventure. With 26 crash incidents reported, safety remains a priority for Subaru, and the Forester is designed to provide peace of mind on the road.

Ideal For

The 2021 Subaru Forester is best suited for families and outdoor enthusiasts seeking a reliable, spacious, and fuel-efficient SUV for daily commuting and weekend adventures.

Strengths

  • +Spacious interior with ample cargo space
  • +Standard all-wheel drive for enhanced traction
  • +High fuel efficiency at 29 MPG combined
  • +Strong reliability score of 83/100
  • +Excellent safety ratings and features

Weaknesses

  • -Common visibility and electrical complaints
  • -Less powerful engine compared to competitors
  • -CVT may not appeal to all driving enthusiasts
  • -Limited off-road capability compared to rugged SUVs
  • -Some users report a lack of premium interior materials

Known Issues (NHTSA Data)

The 2021 Subaru Forester has a total of 265 complaints reported to the NHTSA, with notable issues primarily in visibility and electrical systems. The most frequent complaints involve visibility/wiper problems, especially within the first 20,000 miles. While there are no deaths reported, the presence of 10 injuries raises some concerns. Overall, while there are some known issues, there are no significant NHTSA complaints on record that would deter a well-informed buyer.

Complaint Patterns by Mileage
VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD
0-20000 mi
10 reports
VISIBILITY/WIPER
0-20000 mi
9 reports
Top Complaint Areas
VISIBILITY/WIPER29% of complaints
UNKNOWN OR OTHER14% of complaints
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM10% of complaints
ENGINE10% of complaints
VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD5% of complaints

Performance

Horsepower
182 hp
Torque
176 lb-ft
Engine
2.5 L
Cylinders
flat 4
Transmission
6-speed manual
Drive Type
all wheel drive

Efficiency

MPG Combined
Fuel Type
regular unleaded

Dimensions

Length
Width
Height
Wheelbase
Curb Weight
3,453 lbs
Ground Clearance

Capacity

Doors
5
Seating
5
Cargo
Max Cargo
Max Towing
Max Payload

ddpc Estimated Value

$13,158
$11,185 – $15,132
47% from MSRP
Original MSRP: $24,795
Depreciation Over Time
New
5yr
10yr
ddpc Estimate based on original MSRP, standard depreciation curves, vehicle class, and NHTSA reliability data. Not a substitute for professional appraisal. Actual value depends on condition, mileage, location, and market conditions.

Estimated Cost of Ownership

Estimated Annual Cost
$3,671
Per Mile
$0.31
5-Year Total
$29,992
Fuel
$1,448/yr
Maintenance
$700/yr
Insurance
$1,523/yr
Depreciation
$2,327/yr
Based on industry-standard estimates for this vehicle class. Fuel cost assumes 12,000 mi/yr at national average gas prices. Maintenance uses class-based intervals, not manufacturer-specific schedules. Actual costs vary by location, driving habits, and vehicle condition.

Available Trims (6)

Forester
4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl CVT) (6-speed manual)
182 hp
all wheel drive
$24,795
Forester
Premium 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl CVT) (6-speed manual)
182 hp
all wheel drive
$27,795
Forester
Limited 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl CVT) (6-speed manual)
182 hp
all wheel drive
$31,395
Forester
Touring 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl CVT) (6-speed manual)
182 hp
all wheel drive
$34,895
Forester
Sport 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl CVT) (6-speed manual)
182 hp
all wheel drive
$29,395
Forester AWD
SIDI
AWD

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