Skip advert
Advertisement

Subaru Forester Diesel

We get behind the wheel of most efficient version of Subaru's rugged off-roader yet

Overall Auto Express rating

3.0

How we review cars
Find your Subaru Forester
Compare deals from trusted partners on this car and previous models.
Or are you looking to sell your car?
Value my car
Fast, no-nonsense car selling
Value my car

The Forester is all about rugged appeal rather than luxury, and that’s reflected in the hard-wearing interior. Where it scores is with its go-anywhere ability, comfortable ride and space – and, now, impressive economy, too. The problem is that, at £29,000-plus, our top-spec car is more expensive than the entry-level Range Rover Evoque – a model that’s in a different league in terms of quality and desirability.

Advertisement - Article continues below

The Forester is greener than ever. Subaru has fitted a more efficient – yet just as powerful – diesel to its crossover. Is this enough to bring the car up to date?

With an improved turbo and smaller-capacity alternator, the 2.0-litre four-cylinder boxer unit claims improvements in economy and CO2 emissions of around seven per cent over the outgoing car. This takes them to 47.1mpg and 158g/km respectively.

A large 64-litre fuel tank – the 2.0 petrol model has a 60-litre unit – allows a range of 625 miles between fill-ups. The lower CO2 output has reduced the annual road tax bill to £165 as well.

On the road, the diesel Forester feels identical to its predecessor. The horizontally opposed engine is super-smooth and, despite clattering on start-up, it is whisper-quiet, too. It’s just a shame that road and wind noise are pronounced at motorway speeds. A substantial 350Nm of torque delivers good mid-range punch, although that maximum output is available only between 1,600rpm and 2,400rpm.

Long-travel suspension delivers a comfortable ride in a straight line but a lot of body roll in the bends. However, the multi-link rear suspension and four-wheel drive are borrowed from the Impreza, so there’s plenty of grip. The spacious, practical Forester copes well with minor off-roading as well.

Skip advert
Advertisement

New & used car deals

Subaru Forester

Subaru Forester

RRP £39,995Used from £20,499
Volkswagen Tiguan

Volkswagen Tiguan

RRP £35,385Avg. savings £3,710 off RRP*Used from £15,440
Volkswagen Polo

Volkswagen Polo

RRP £14,480Avg. savings £1,864 off RRP*Used from £6,495
MG MG4

MG MG4

RRP £26,995Avg. savings £7,541 off RRP*Used from £12,599
* Average savings are calculated daily based on the best dealer prices on Auto Express vs manufacturer RRP
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

New Xiaomi YU7 2025 review: a world-beating new EV to worry the establishment
Xiaomi YU7 - front cornering

New Xiaomi YU7 2025 review: a world-beating new EV to worry the establishment

BMW or Mercedes would do anything to keep the new Xiaomi YU7 from sale in the UK and Europe, and this is why
Road tests
14 Jul 2025
Electric Car Grant in detail: Which cars will get the UK EV discount?
Auto Express creative director Darren Wilson charging the Lexus RZ

Electric Car Grant in detail: Which cars will get the UK EV discount?

The government has set out its plan to help reduce the cost of affordable EVs by introducing a new £3,750 Electric Car Grant for new EVs sold under £3…
News
18 Jul 2025
Electric Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake will keep going long after rivals need to stop
Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake - front action

Electric Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake will keep going long after rivals need to stop

The second of Merc’s new-era EVs is here in the form of an attractive estate with a huge range
News
14 Jul 2025