The SG Foresters were the last of the tough, wagon-style SUVs. They made them until 2008. The 2003-2005 models were pre-facelift, and 2006-2008 were post-facelift. If you find a low-mileage 2008 and get the big maintenance done—timing belt, head gaskets, new struts, bushings—you’ll have a car that lasts another decade. Just make sure it’s rust-free. Yes, you might spend $15k on a car that’s 15 years old, but it’s such a cool ride.
@Kase
Exactly!!! I just can’t find anything else I like as much as this one.
I recently bought a 2005 LL Bean XS, and it’s the best car I’ve ever owned. Every time I open the door, I fall in love with it all over again. Just get one—you won’t regret it!
Bran said:
I recently bought a 2005 LL Bean XS, and it’s the best car I’ve ever owned. Every time I open the door, I fall in love with it all over again. Just get one—you won’t regret it!
I’m so tempted! My hesitation comes from bad luck with older cars. My 2007 Yaris had tons of issues, and my second car was totaled just a month after I bought it. But this Forester is calling my name.
@Lloyd
I hear you, but it’s all about finding a well-maintained car. My old 1999 Camry has 350k miles and drives like new. Just avoid abused vehicles, and you’ll be fine.
Bran said:
@Lloyd
I hear you, but it’s all about finding a well-maintained car. My old 1999 Camry has 350k miles and drives like new. Just avoid abused vehicles, and you’ll be fine.
Seriously, there’s a difference between a used car and one that’s been beat up. Take your time and find a good one!
In the US, newer cars have gotten bigger and heavier over the years. If a 2005 Forester is your dream car, just go for it! They’re great cars with known issues that are easy to find solutions for. Just don’t skip having a trusted shop check it out before buying. I got my dream 2004 Forester with a manual transmission and couldn’t be happier.
@Ashwin
Ugh, that’s so encouraging! But my past car troubles make me nervous about buying something older.
Lloyd said:
@Ashwin
Ugh, that’s so encouraging! But my past car troubles make me nervous about buying something older.
They’re awesome cars, but you’ll want to learn how to do some basic maintenance. Older Subarus are worth it, but repair costs at shops can add up.
I’ve got a 2004 Forester, and none of the newer cars I’ve owned have matched its reliability. It’s never left me stranded. If you’re thinking about it, go for it—they’re still amazing cars today.
I had a 2004 Forester and loved it. These days I’m driving newer Subarus, but I still miss the simplicity of the older ones. If you’re dreaming of a 2005, I’d say absolutely go for it! Look for a turbo model from a non-rusty area and set aside some budget for an engine rebuild down the line.
I loved mine so much I rebuilt an entire 2004 XT from the ground up. Every system in it has been updated or upgraded. Totally worth it!
I had an ‘04 and it was the best car for my outdoorsy lifestyle in south-central PA. Sadly, the transmission and front diff gave out at 211k miles. I’m now looking for another second-gen Forester. You won’t regret it!
I’ve got a 2005 XS, and I love it! Mine’s the green color, like in your second pic.
Maxwell said:
I’ve got a 2005 XS, and I love it! Mine’s the green color, like in your second pic.
You’re living my dream!!!
Maxwell said:
I’ve got a 2005 XS, and I love it! Mine’s the green color, like in your second pic.
You’re living my dream!!!
It’s amazing! I bought it in June 2023 with only 86,000 km.
There’s just nothing like the mid-2000s style of the Forester and Escape. Modern car designs have gone in a completely different direction.
Brenner said:
There’s just nothing like the mid-2000s style of the Forester and Escape. Modern car designs have gone in a completely different direction.
Right?! I love that era’s style so much—it’s such a shame they don’t make cars like that anymore.
If you want a 2005, just go for it! Newer models keep getting bigger. I’ve got an ‘09 and a ‘24, and while I love my ‘24, I miss the smaller size of the older ones. Hoping to keep my ‘09 and fix it up someday. Good luck finding your dream car!