Used Subaru Forester
Photo: Kevauto, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Quick answer

A used Subaru Forester in Canada lists for roughly $9,500 to $41,500 in October 2026. The smart buy is a 2019 to 2021 car at about $17,000 to $31,500.

What does a used Subaru Forester cost in Canada?

These ranges are built from current average asking prices on CarGurus.ca across Canada, year by year. They cover the bulk of the market: a very high-kilometre car will sit below the range, and a nearly new, dealer-certified one at the top or above it.

Canadian market asking prices, October 2026

YearsTypical range
2014 to 20164th generation$9,500 to $17,000
2017 to 20184th generation, EyeSight more common$12,000 to $20,000
2019 to 20215th generation$17,000 to $31,500
2022 to 20245th generation refresh$23,000 to $41,500

Market reference only, not an offer for a specific vehicle. Asking prices before taxes and dealer fees. Source: CarGurus.ca price trends. Updated October 8, 2026.

Which Forester generation should you buy?

2014 to 2018: the honest workhorse

The fourth generation has huge windows, a boxy, practical cabin and standard symmetrical AWD. Most have the 2.5L and a CVT. Early cars of this era drew oil consumption complaints, so history matters.

2019 and newer: the better Forester

The fifth generation is quieter, rides better and has EyeSight driver assistance standard. The turbo XT was dropped, so every car has the 2.5L, which is adequate rather than quick.

Forester pros and cons

What owners like

  • Standard AWD and good ground clearance for winter
  • Excellent visibility and a roomy, practical cabin
  • Strong safety ratings, EyeSight standard from 2019

What owners complain about

  • CVT and modest power make highway passing slow
  • Some older engines used oil between changes
  • Infotainment on older cars is basic

What should you check before buying a used Forester?

  • 2014 to 2016: check the oil level and ask how often it needed topping up. Oil consumption was a known complaint on engines from this period.
  • All years, CVT: drive it from a cold start and at highway speed. Any shudder, whine or hesitation is a reason to walk away or get it checked.
  • All years: look for rust on the rear subframe and rocker panels on cars from salted provinces, test the AWD, read the full Carfax and run the VIN for open recalls.

Those are the Forester-specific items. The general checks for any used car are in my pre-purchase inspection checklist, and before any money moves, run a lien check.

Found a Forester in another city and can't see it yourself? My inspection team looks at it in person: photos, video, Carfax and a written verdict before you pay.

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Jim T. verdict

7.8JimScore out of 10
Winter10/10
Fuel / energy6/10
Reliability8/10
Practicality9/10
Tech6/10
Value8/10

The Forester is the sensible winter SUV: not fast, not flashy, just very good in snow. A 2019 to 2021 is the best value. On older cars, oil use and the CVT decide whether it's a good buy.

How I can help you get one

I work with buyers across Canada. Pick what fits where you are in the process.

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Tell me budget, years and must-haves. I search, shortlist, inspect in person, negotiate and handle the paperwork. Inspection and Carfax included. Delivery anywhere in Canada.

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You found the listing. My team checks it in person and sends photos, video, a written assessment and the Carfax with lien check (included).

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Subaru Forester FAQ

How much is a used Subaru Forester in Canada?

In October 2026 a used Subaru Forester in Canada typically lists from about $9,500 for a 2014 to 2016 model to about $41,500 for a 2022 to 2024. The best value right now is a 2019 to 2021 car.

Which used Subaru Forester year is best?

A 2019 to 2021. You get the current generation with EyeSight standard, and prices have come well off new.

Is the Subaru Forester good in Canadian winters?

Yes. Every Forester has full-time AWD and good ground clearance. With proper winter tires it's one of the best compact SUVs for snow.

Can you find a Subaru Forester for me if I live outside BC?

Yes. The Car Finding Service covers the search, shortlist, inspection, negotiation and paperwork, and the car can be delivered anywhere in Canada. If you already found one, Remote Vehicle Verification sends an inspector to see it in person before you pay.