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2008
Subaru Forester

Starts at:
$21,195
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New 2008 Subaru Forester
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NHTSA tested vehicle score
Consumer rating
Owner reviewed vehicle score
Not rated
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NHTSA tested vehicle score
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Available trims

See the differences side-by-side to compare trims.
  • 4dr Man X
    Starts at
    $21,195
    20 City / 27 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas Flat 4-Cyl
    Engine
    All Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr Man Sports X
    Starts at
    $21,695
    20 City / 27 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas Flat 4-Cyl
    Engine
    All Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr Auto X
    Starts at
    $21,995
    20 City / 26 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas Flat 4-Cyl
    Engine
    All Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr Auto Sports X
    Starts at
    $22,495
    20 City / 26 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas Flat 4-Cyl
    Engine
    All Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr Man X w/Premium Pkg
    Starts at
    $22,695
    20 City / 27 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas Flat 4-Cyl
    Engine
    All Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr Auto X w/Premium Pkg
    Starts at
    $23,495
    20 City / 26 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas Flat 4-Cyl
    Engine
    All Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr Auto X L.L. Bean Ed
    Starts at
    $26,695
    20 City / 26 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas Flat 4-Cyl
    Engine
    All Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr Man Sports XT
    Starts at
    $26,995
    19 City / 24 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Turbo Gas 4-Cyl
    Engine
    All Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr Man XT Ltd
    Starts at
    $27,895
    19 City / 24 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Turbo Gas 4-Cyl
    Engine
    All Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr Auto Sports XT
    Starts at
    $27,995
    18 City / 23 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Turbo Gas 4-Cyl
    Engine
    All Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr Auto XT Ltd
    Starts at
    $28,895
    18 City / 23 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Turbo Gas 4-Cyl
    Engine
    All Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs

Photo & video gallery

2008 Subaru Forester 2008 Subaru Forester 2008 Subaru Forester 2008 Subaru Forester 2008 Subaru Forester 2008 Subaru Forester 2008 Subaru Forester 2008 Subaru Forester 2008 Subaru Forester 2008 Subaru Forester 2008 Subaru Forester 2008 Subaru Forester 2008 Subaru Forester 2008 Subaru Forester 2008 Subaru Forester 2008 Subaru Forester 2008 Subaru Forester 2008 Subaru Forester 2008 Subaru Forester 2008 Subaru Forester 2008 Subaru Forester

Notable features

Available L.L.Bean Edition
Standard AWD
More powerful turbocharged engine in 2.5 XT Limited
Manual or automatic
Carlike structure

The good & the bad

The good

Maneuverability
Performance of 2.5 XT
Driving ease
Quietness while cruising
Fuel economy of regular engine

The bad

Some turbo lag with turbocharged engine
Minimal offroad capability
No low-range gearing
Ride comfort over harsh surfaces
No side curtain airbags

Expert 2008 Subaru Forester review

our expert's take
Our expert's take
By Cars.com editors
Full article
our expert's take

Vehicle Overview
The Subaru Forester is a compact sport utility vehicle that competes with the likes of the Toyota RAV4 and Saturn Vue, even though it looks more like a tall wagon than a traditional SUV. All-wheel drive is standard, and trim levels include the base 2.5 X, Sports 2.5 X, upscale 2.5 X L.L.Bean Edition, Sports 2.5 XT and 2.5 XT Limited. Turbo models with an automatic transmission have a tweaked all-wheel-drive system for 2008, and they also gain an electronic stability system. Changes for other models are largely cosmetic.

A 173-horsepower, 2.5-liter four-cylinder powers all but the 2.5 XT, which gets a 224-hp turbocharged four-cylinder. There is an optional four-speed automatic transmission.

Ground clearance is 8.1 inches (7.9 inches for 2.5 XT models).

Exterior
The Forester features flared front fenders and blister-type rear quarter panels. For 2008, all Sports models get a new front bumper, black-painted headlight and taillight surrounds and silver-painted roof rails. The Sports 2.5 XT adds a body-colored roof spoiler and new 17-inch 10-spoke alloy wheels.

Interior
Sport bucket seats in the front and a 60/40-split folding rear seat can accommodate up to five occupants. Subaru emphasizes the Forester’s high seating position. For 2008, an audio system with seven upgraded speakers and a subwoofer is standard on Sports and L.L.Bean models. L.L.Bean models also get a standard auto-dimming rearview mirror, rear cargo area carpeting and a standard cargo accessory tray.

Standard features on the 2.5 X include power windows and door locks, keyless entry and a CD audio system. A Premium Package adds automatic climate control, a panoramic moonroof, heated seats and a power driver’s seat, among other items. Sports models add to that aluminum alloy pedal covers and anthracite black cloth upholstery, among other features. The Sports 2.5 XT adds a different gauge setup. The L.L.Bean edition has embossed leather seats, a wood and leather-wrapped steering wheel with a matching shifter handle, and L.L.Bean-embroidered floormats.

Under the Hood
Subaru’s Impreza series uses the same 2.5-liter horizontally opposed four-cylinder as the Forester. The regular engine develops 173 hp. A turbocharged version that yields 224 hp goes into 2.5 XT models. A five-speed manual gearbox is standard on all models except the 2.5 X L.L.Bean Edition, which gets a four-speed automatic transmission. The automatic transmission is optional for other models. A Hill Holder clutch on manual-shift models makes it easier to start the car on inclines.

For 2008, turbocharged models get Subaru’s Variable Torque Distribution that uses a electronically controlled hydraulic transfer case to control power distribution between the front and rear wheels. Turbo models also get an electronic stability system.

Safety
Dual-stage front airbags, side-impact airbags, front active head restraints and antilock brakes are standard. The ABS system has electronic brake-force distribution for better front and rear proportioning. Side curtain airbags are not available.

Driving Impressions
The frisky Forester XT is sensible and satisfying, especially with the turbocharged engine and the manual gearbox. There’s a bit of turbo lag after pushing the gas pedal. Foresters ride pleasantly enough over smooth surfaces, but bumps and ruts can produce somewhat harsh reactions.

Space is ample in the front and adequate in back, with abundant headroom and toe room, though knee space is less bountiful. The front seat bottoms are short but nicely supportive. The gauges and controls are ordinary but sensible.

The easy-to-drive Forester maneuvers nimbly, handles with a light touch and yields a friendly, comfortable feel. Some driveline noise occurs during acceleration.

2008 Subaru Forester review: Our expert's take

Vehicle Overview
The Subaru Forester is a compact sport utility vehicle that competes with the likes of the Toyota RAV4 and Saturn Vue, even though it looks more like a tall wagon than a traditional SUV. All-wheel drive is standard, and trim levels include the base 2.5 X, Sports 2.5 X, upscale 2.5 X L.L.Bean Edition, Sports 2.5 XT and 2.5 XT Limited. Turbo models with an automatic transmission have a tweaked all-wheel-drive system for 2008, and they also gain an electronic stability system. Changes for other models are largely cosmetic.

A 173-horsepower, 2.5-liter four-cylinder powers all but the 2.5 XT, which gets a 224-hp turbocharged four-cylinder. There is an optional four-speed automatic transmission.

Ground clearance is 8.1 inches (7.9 inches for 2.5 XT models).

Exterior
The Forester features flared front fenders and blister-type rear quarter panels. For 2008, all Sports models get a new front bumper, black-painted headlight and taillight surrounds and silver-painted roof rails. The Sports 2.5 XT adds a body-colored roof spoiler and new 17-inch 10-spoke alloy wheels.

Interior
Sport bucket seats in the front and a 60/40-split folding rear seat can accommodate up to five occupants. Subaru emphasizes the Forester’s high seating position. For 2008, an audio system with seven upgraded speakers and a subwoofer is standard on Sports and L.L.Bean models. L.L.Bean models also get a standard auto-dimming rearview mirror, rear cargo area carpeting and a standard cargo accessory tray.

Standard features on the 2.5 X include power windows and door locks, keyless entry and a CD audio system. A Premium Package adds automatic climate control, a panoramic moonroof, heated seats and a power driver’s seat, among other items. Sports models add to that aluminum alloy pedal covers and anthracite black cloth upholstery, among other features. The Sports 2.5 XT adds a different gauge setup. The L.L.Bean edition has embossed leather seats, a wood and leather-wrapped steering wheel with a matching shifter handle, and L.L.Bean-embroidered floormats.

Under the Hood
Subaru’s Impreza series uses the same 2.5-liter horizontally opposed four-cylinder as the Forester. The regular engine develops 173 hp. A turbocharged version that yields 224 hp goes into 2.5 XT models. A five-speed manual gearbox is standard on all models except the 2.5 X L.L.Bean Edition, which gets a four-speed automatic transmission. The automatic transmission is optional for other models. A Hill Holder clutch on manual-shift models makes it easier to start the car on inclines.

For 2008, turbocharged models get Subaru’s Variable Torque Distribution that uses a electronically controlled hydraulic transfer case to control power distribution between the front and rear wheels. Turbo models also get an electronic stability system.

Safety
Dual-stage front airbags, side-impact airbags, front active head restraints and antilock brakes are standard. The ABS system has electronic brake-force distribution for better front and rear proportioning. Side curtain airbags are not available.

Driving Impressions
The frisky Forester XT is sensible and satisfying, especially with the turbocharged engine and the manual gearbox. There’s a bit of turbo lag after pushing the gas pedal. Foresters ride pleasantly enough over smooth surfaces, but bumps and ruts can produce somewhat harsh reactions.

Space is ample in the front and adequate in back, with abundant headroom and toe room, though knee space is less bountiful. The front seat bottoms are short but nicely supportive. The gauges and controls are ordinary but sensible.

The easy-to-drive Forester maneuvers nimbly, handles with a light touch and yields a friendly, comfortable feel. Some driveline noise occurs during acceleration.

Available cars near you

Safety review

Based on the 2008 Subaru Forester base trim
NHTSA crash test and rollover ratings, scored out of 5.
Frontal driver
5/5
Frontal passenger
5/5
Side driver
5/5
Side rear passenger
5/5

Factory warranties

New car program benefits

Basic
3 years / 36,000 miles
Corrosion
5 years
Powertrain
5 years / 60,000 miles
Roadside Assistance
3 years / 36,000 miles

Certified Pre-Owned program benefits

Age / mileage
5 years / 80,000 miles
Basic
Coverage available for purchase
Dealer certification
152-point inspection

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Consumer reviews

4.4 / 5
Based on 36 reviews
Write a review
Comfort 4.2
Interior 4.1
Performance 4.6
Value 4.5
Exterior 4.3
Reliability 4.7

Most recent

  • 2008 Subaru Forester

    I bought this 2008 with 98000 on it now I have 199000 uses oil had timing chain replaced 2 times water pump replaced 2 times engine replaced one wind noise when on freeway
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does not recommend this car
    Comfort 3.0
    Interior 3.0
    Performance 3.0
    Value 3.0
    Exterior 3.0
    Reliability 3.0
    28 people out of 33 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • I'm surprised at the ride

    I had low expectations the previous one was no power but sure footed. This one has lots more power and the same sure footed feeling in all weather. I've been converted to a Subaru fan. Not for myself but for my kids.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 4.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 3.0
    Reliability 3.0
    13 people out of 14 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • still running after 190,000

    We got the 2008 LL Bean Forester because we heard the Forester was a safe car and with a little 5 year old I wanted to be sure we would be safe. I had no idea how much I would love this car. I was not planning on the LL Bean but when I test drove the regular Forester and then the LL Bean it was obvious that I had to get the LL Bean. As soon as I sat in the seats, I knew I want that car. The seats on the LL Bean Forester was like a big comfy easy chair. The only issue I have is I wish the center armrest extended forward more. I'm short so I sit up close to the wheel and my elbow can't reach the center armrest. However, I still love the LL Bean even more than my 20017 Forester but since my son who is now 16 needed a safe car to drive, I gave him the LL Bean.
    • Purchased a New car
    • Used for Transporting family
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    8 people out of 8 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • It's a Subaru with a lot of life still in it!!

    This car has served my needs for the past 5 years and 9 months. Never a break down or tow during ownership from 54,000 - 127,000 miles. The Forester is still built in Japan! An issue with the motor using oil was settled with the previous owner at 36,000 miles with a short block replacement. This new motor still uses no oil to the point of ever needing to add additional between oil changes. I've driven back and forth over the passes on I-70 in Colorado. Driven through snow and extreme weather with substantial success. Hey, It's a Subaru. It's still the best All Wheel Drive system out there.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Transporting family
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 4.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    6 people out of 6 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • The second most dependable vehicle I owned.

    Metes all my needs. It could use 2-3 more 12 volts receptacles up front on the dash somewhere. ( for radar detector, for charging cell phone and a heated coffee travel mug. I own a 2003 subura baja truck.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Transporting family
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 3.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 4.0
    Exterior 4.0
    Reliability 5.0
    2 people out of 2 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • I have yet to be disappointed.

    I purchased my 2008 Forester L.L.Bean used, with about 191k on the clock. At that point I would assume its been decently broken in, but it looks and feels like new. The steering is very responsive, the suspension is somewhat soft as you would expect being that it is a family wagon, not a sports car. Comfortable soft, not worn out. The interior, while simple and clean in design, is very well made. Unlike the dull gray in other models, the Bean has a bold black and tan color scheme, with appropriate use of leather and suede that still show well 11 years later, and feels more luxurious than my 2003 Mini Cooper S. If I had to complain about anything, I would say its the acceleration and throttle response, which are perhaps par for the course. Having come from a decent history of sports cars, the performance does leave a bit to be desired, but all in all my 2008 L.L.Bean Forester has proven to be one of the most comfortable and most reliable vehicles I've owned.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Transporting family
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 4.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Great car

    I am fully satisfied! This is the best SUV I have ever had. It runs and drives just GREAT!!! I hope it will be a good car for me this winter.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 4.0
    Reliability 5.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Reliable, powerful, plenty of room, but not a boat

    The older Foresters are much smaller and have plenty of room without feeling like behemoths to drive. I like a small car and was hesitant at first, but this smaller SUV was perfect! Lots of power in the engine, and known for reliability!
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 4.0
    Reliability 5.0
    2 people out of 3 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • AWD Subarus make it easy to commute in Maine

    A very versatile SUV that is very good on gas. Sporty styling in the premium package with all the bells and whistles including the heated front seats and over-sized Moonroof make it extremely desirable.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    2 people out of 2 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • I love my Forester!

    The older Foresters are a perfect size. I can enter and exit easily. I can see all around. And, unlike the Honda Civic I just unloaded, I always know where the front end and back end are. I am a happy, happy camper!
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Transporting family
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    2 people out of 2 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Most valuable car in the owned

    The Subaru is always Dependable handles well that great gas mileage it was a pleasure to drive everyone that rode in the car love ride and you in the car when it's options the big sunroof and oversized tires great and all especially in the snow put more miles on the car than any car I've ever owned it without a bit of trouble
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Practical, Durable, Dependable and Affordable!

    I'm on my 2nd Subaru forester and they're such great all around cars! Perfect for outdoorsy types, hauls everything I've needed it to and is very fun to drive (I've had stick and manual)
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 4.0
    Reliability 5.0
    1 person out of 1 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No

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FAQ

What trim levels are available for the 2008 Subaru Forester?

The 2008 Subaru Forester is available in 6 trim levels:

  • Sports X (2 styles)
  • Sports XT (2 styles)
  • X (2 styles)
  • X L.L. Bean Ed (1 style)
  • X w/Premium Pkg (2 styles)
  • XT Ltd (2 styles)

What is the MPG of the 2008 Subaru Forester?

The 2008 Subaru Forester offers up to 20 MPG in city driving and 27 MPG on the highway. These figures are based on EPA mileage ratings and are for comparison purposes only. The actual mileage will vary depending on vehicle options, trim level, driving conditions, driving habits, vehicle maintenance, and other factors.

What are some similar vehicles and competitors of the 2008 Subaru Forester?

The 2008 Subaru Forester compares to and/or competes against the following vehicles:

Is the 2008 Subaru Forester reliable?

The 2008 Subaru Forester has an average reliability rating of 4.7 out of 5 according to cars.com consumers. Find real-world reliability insights within consumer reviews from 2008 Subaru Forester owners.

Is the 2008 Subaru Forester a good SUV?

Below are the cars.com consumers ratings for the 2008 Subaru Forester. 88.9% of drivers recommend this vehicle.

4.4 / 5
Based on 36 reviews
  • Comfort: 4.2
  • Interior: 4.1
  • Performance: 4.6
  • Value: 4.5
  • Exterior: 4.3
  • Reliability: 4.7

Subaru Forester history

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