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Subaru Forester Estate (2008-2012) running costs and reliability

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Running costs rating: 2.5 out of 52.5

Written by David Ross Published: 6 June 2019

Miles per pound (mpp)

Reliable fuel consumption data for comparison purposes is not available for this model.

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Fuel economy

A more stringent standard for fuel economy (WLTP) was introduced from September 2017, and this model was not required to undergo that test. Its fuel economy measured under the previous test system was 37 - 47 mpg. However these figures are less likely to be achievable in real world driving and so should never be compared to another car's mpg which was measured under the newer, more realistic WLTP system.

View mpg & specs for any version

Prices start quite high, even for the 2.0X manual and although it comes well equipped it’s not great value. Opt for the better equipped 2.0XS with an automatic gearbox and the price tag rises accordingly. For best Subaru Forester running costs, the diesel is the only realistic choice – it returns 44mpg compared to 34mpg in the petrol.

IIt’s no surprise the Forester is a fairly polluting model – especially the 2.0-litre petrol engine. If you want low Subaru Forester emissions the diesel is the best choice. It’s better on fuel and puts out less CO2, but with emissions of 155g/km (158g/km on higher equipped model) it’s far from efficient.

The Forester has a strong reputation among rural buyers thanks to its dependability and the new model should continue this trend. It’s not quite as rugged on the outside but is just as well built. You might think Subaru Forester reliability would be questionable because some of the interior materials may seem a little cheap, especially compared to more upmarket rivals, but they are hardwearing nonetheless.