Before Subaru became a smash hit on the World Rally Championship scene, its vehicles tended to be purchased by folk wearing wellies and flat caps.
As farmers’ vehicles, they had to be good at a number of things, notably being cheap to run and ruggedly built, and displaying an ability to go almost as far into the back of beyond as bigger 4×4 vehicles. And, of course, they had to be capable of towing.
That DNA remains as strong as ever in more modern Subarus, such as the Forester estate car, which is why if you’re in the market for a used car to tow a caravan, you should give it serious consideration.
What’s used Subaru Forester like inside?
For this version of the Forester, Subaru lengthened the wheelbase by 2.5cm, which helped with interior legroom, and made the car wider and taller at the same time.
All of this means these estate tow cars have a load of space for the two front-seat occupants, and the sheer range of adjustment means pretty much anyone can get comfortable. Better still, even if the folks up front are of the beanpole variety, those in the back still have more than enough room.
Luggage space is competitive at 505 litres with the rear seats in position, which is more than you’ll find in an equivalent Volkswagen Tiguan. Lower the rear seats and there are 1592 litres, more than enough for the family’s holiday kit.
Even the entry-level models come with automatic lights and wipers, dual-zone air conditioning, cruise control and electrically adjustable and heated door mirrors. Just make sure you remember your pair of the best towing mirrors for when you’re pulling a tourer.
Moving up the range brings you leather upholstery and sat nav, but for our money, the entry-level cars offer the best balance of luxury and cost-effectiveness.
How does a used Subaru Forester drive?
There were two petrols and one diesel, but caravanners would be advised to skip the petrols and instead opt for the diesel tow car – the lower-powered model isn’t torquey enough, and the punchy 241bhp version would be too thirsty. The 2.0-litre diesel has 145bhp and 258lb ft of torque; strong enough without being outstanding.
The standard four-wheel drive means traction is never an issue, even on steep hill starts after caravan hitching. The comparatively soft suspension allows rather too much body movement in sudden manoeuvres, but it’s never alarming. The Forester would be ideal if you like to pitch at remote sites.
That suspension translates into a pretty comfortable ride when the car isn’t hitched up, but the Forester definitely prefers a relaxed approach to progress. The diesel engine is reasonably quiet. It’s pretty economical, too – you can expect to get around 25mpg when towing.
Essential know how
What will a used Subaru Forester tow?
It will be crucial to know you’re matching a car to a caravan that will be appropriate for towing it. In the case of the Subaru Forester, it has:
- Kerbweight: 1631kg
- Towing limit: 2000kg
- Noseweight limit: 80kg
- 85% match: 1386kg
Running costs
- Insurance group: 24
- Annual VED: £255 (£190 for cars registered after 1 April 2017)
- Average economy: 49.6mpg
- Interim/full service: £175
Servicing prices supplied by Servicing Stop, 0844 324 5262
Used Subaru Forester reliability
Subarus tend to do well in reliability surveys, but the Forester has suffered a few recalls in its time, nonetheless.
One involved an incorrectly routed engine wiring harness on 80 models, while potentially faulty valve springs caused another 812 cars to be recalled.
The front passenger airbag inflator forced 7589 cars back to the dealers, and a further 6975 cars were affected by a faulty brake light switch.
A full list of the relevant recalls can be found by visiting www.check-vehicle-recalls.service.gov.uk
What to pay
- High: price: £21,395; model: 2018 2.0i XE Lineartronic; miles: 29,700
- Sweet spot: price: £8500; model: 2015 2.0D XE; miles: 30,500
- Low: price: £3500; model: 2014 2.0D XC; miles: 175,000
Verdict
The Subaru Forester is one of those cars that does nothing spectacularly well, but does many things well enough. It’s roomy, capable when towing on slippery surfaces, and economical. Fun to drive? Not so much, and it could do with being able to tow heavier caravans, but it’s a fair choice.
If you’re unsure whether to purchase a pre-owned car or not, take a look at our guide to buying a new or used car to see the crucial points to consider.
Alternatives to consider
A used Kia Sportage (2016-21)
The Sportage put Kia on the map. It looks good, is very well equipped, and makes a great tow car. Stability is the watchword when towing, and even if the weather is on the lively side, the Sportage remains unflustered. The interior feels well put together and is reasonably stylish. And the Sportage has plenty of space for five people.
A used Nissan X-Trail (2014-22)
The X-Trail might not have the go-anywhere ability of the Subaru Forester, but it does have one trick up its sleeve: it can carry seven people. Admittedly, the two rearmost passengers need to be small children, but it’s a boon. It’s also very well equipped and reasonably cheap to run. Boot space is smaller than is available in some rivals, however.
A used Ford Kuga (2013-20)
If there’s one thing you can almost guarantee with a Ford SUV, it’s that it will drive nicely. The Kuga is a pleasing companion in traffic, on the motorway or on a back road. This second-generation car can carry five adults, with boot space for most of their stuff. Ford didn’t skimp on standard kit, either. The Kuga has little trouble towing a heavier caravan.
The experts at Practical Caravan have also shared the 23 technical mistakes you’ll want to avoid making in your caravan to help you have a more enjoyable experience on the road.
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