Subaru specifications

Subaru Forester specifications and photos

The 2021 Subaru Forester is a mid-cycle update to the crossover's fifth generation. It retains its standard all-wheel drive and flat-four engines while introducing refreshed styling and advanced safety technology.

Years 2021
Body type suv
Trims 7
Photos 17
Subaru Forester 2021 SUV
Overview

Subaru Forester at a glance

Quick model context before comparing photos and trim-level specifications.

Introduced in mid-2021, this restyled version of the fifth-generation Subaru Forester builds on a familiar formula. The update primarily focuses on technological enhancements, a revised front fascia, and improved ride quality rather than sweeping architectural changes. The Forester remains a highly practical crossover positioned for buyers who value all-weather capability and straightforward utility. A notable addition for certain markets is the Wilderness edition, which caters to off-road enthusiasts with increased ground clearance, all-terrain tires, and rugged black plastic cladding. Underneath, Subaru retuned the suspension system to provide a more comfortable and compliant ride over uneven surfaces, enhancing its everyday drivability.

  • Power: 150-185 hp
  • Engine displacement: 1994-2498 cc
  • Transmissions: CVT
  • Seating: 5 seats
Research hub

Photos, trims and specifications for Subaru Forester

This model page brings gallery images, trim comparison, and detailed technical data together for the 2021 generation.

Running costs

Estimate fuel cost

Use trim-level fuel consumption data to estimate monthly and yearly fuel spending.

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Fuel costs are estimates. Real consumption can change with driving style, traffic, tires, weather, load, and market-specific equipment.

Model guide

Subaru Forester overview

Editorial context for design, cabin, performance, practicality, and buyer notes.

Design

The exterior modifications for the 2021 model year are concentrated at the front of the vehicle. Subaru equipped the Forester with a redesigned grille, a modified front bumper, and reshaped LED headlight clusters. The rear design profile and overall silhouette carry over largely unchanged from the previous model year. Standard ground clearance sits at a generous 220 mm, reinforcing its capability on rough terrain. Depending on the chosen trim, such as the Premium or Sport, the crossover features 17-inch or 18-inch alloy wheels, roof rails, and subtle rear spoilers.

Interior

Inside, the cabin layout remains consistent with the pre-facelift fifth-generation model, prioritizing ergonomics and outward visibility. The interior offers generous space for five passengers, supported by a 509-liter cargo capacity. Tech features include an infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and select trims upgrade the cabin with leather upholstery, a sunroof, memory power seats, and a premium Harman Kardon audio system. A unique addition for this model year is gesture control for the climate system, a feature more commonly found in luxury European segments.

Performance

The 2021 Forester offers a choice of naturally aspirated boxer engines. The lineup includes a 2.0-liter four-cylinder producing 150 horsepower and a more potent 2.5-liter engine delivering 185 horsepower, the latter achieving a 0-100 km/h time of 9.5 seconds. A 2.0-liter e-Boxer hybrid powertrain is also available, combining a 150-hp internal combustion engine with a 17-hp electric motor for a total output of 156 hp. Regardless of the engine choice, power is managed by Subaru's Lineartronic continuously variable transmission (CVT) and routed through the brand's standard all-wheel-drive system.

Practicality

Designed with everyday utility in mind, the Forester features a spacious interior with folding 60/40 rear seats to expand cargo space beyond the standard 509 liters. The tall roofline (1730 mm) and wide door openings make passenger entry and child seat installation straightforward. With 220 mm of ground clearance and standard all-wheel drive, it is well-suited for families living in areas with harsh winters or those who frequently travel unpaved roads.

Safety and tech

Safety remains a core focus, with the 2021 model receiving an upgraded EyeSight driver assist suite. The system features a new stereo camera with a wider field of view and enhanced software. Available active safety technologies include adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, automatic high beams, and a new automatic emergency steering system designed to help avoid obstacles. Higher trims also offer multi-view camera systems and steering-responsive LED headlights.

Buyer notes

When comparing trims, buyers should carefully consider their performance needs, as the 2.5-liter engine provides noticeably better acceleration than the base 2.0-liter. The e-Boxer hybrid is a viable option for those prioritizing fuel efficiency in city driving. Trim levels like Active, Touring, Premium, and Sport offer varying levels of comfort, from standard fabric to full leather interiors and advanced audio setups. Keep in mind that specific equipment and the availability of the rugged Wilderness trim may vary by regional market.

Configurations

Trims and key specifications

Use this table to compare the main differences between available configurations.

Power 150-185 hp
Engine displacement 1994-2498 cc
Seating 5 seats
Transmissions CVT
Trim / modification Engine Power Seats Transmission
2.0i (150 hp) CVT Lineartronic 4x4 1994 cc 150 hp 5 CVT
2.5i (185 hp) CVT Lineartronic 4x4 2498 cc 185 hp 5 CVT
2.0ie (156 hp) CVT Lineartronic 4x4 1995 cc 156 hp 5 CVT
2.0ie AT Active (VX) 1995 cc 156 hp 5 CVT
2.0ie AT Touring (LI) 1995 cc 156 hp 5 CVT
2.5i AT Premium (FR) 2498 cc 185 hp 5 CVT
2.5i AT Sport (OC) 2498 cc 185 hp 5 CVT

Specifications can vary by market, model year, and equipment package. Use the trim sections below to review the full data for each configuration.

Detailed specs

Specifications by trim

Choose a configuration below to open full technical data grouped by category.

2.0i (150 hp) CVT Lineartronic 4x4 38 specifications

Specifications

Performance and consumption

Fuel consumption city, L/100 km 9
Fuel consumption highway, L/100 km 6.2
Fuel consumption combined, L/100 km 7.2
Top speed, km/h 193
Acceleration 0-100 km/h, s 10.3

Engine

Engine 2.0i
Engine code EJ204
Engine type Internal combustion engine
Fuel type Gasoline
Engine displacement, cc 1994
Cylinder layout Boxer
Number of cylinders 4
Valves 16
Compression ratio 11.0:1
Power, hp 150
RPM at max power 6000
Torque, Nm 196
RPM at max torque 3200

Dimensions

Seats 5
Length, mm 4640
Width, mm 2065
Height, mm 1730
Wheelbase, mm 2670
Front track, mm 1565
Rear track, mm 1570
Kerb weight, kg 1591
Gross weight, kg 2185
Fuel tank capacity, L 48
Turning circle, m 11.6
Ground clearance, mm 220
Width without mirrors, mm 1815
Trunk capacity, L 509

Transmission and drive

Transmission CVT
Transmission type CVT
Drive All-wheel drive
Transmission manufacturer Subaru
Automatic transmission +
Transmission country Japan
2.5i (185 hp) CVT Lineartronic 4x4 38 specifications

Specifications

Performance and consumption

Fuel consumption city, L/100 km 9.3
Fuel consumption highway, L/100 km 6.3
Fuel consumption combined, L/100 km 7.4
Top speed, km/h 207
Acceleration 0-100 km/h, s 9.5

Engine

Engine 2.5i
Engine code FB25D
Engine type Internal combustion engine
Fuel type Gasoline
Engine displacement, cc 2498
Cylinder layout Boxer
Number of cylinders 4
Valves 16
Compression ratio 12:1
Power, hp 185
RPM at max power 5800
Torque, Nm 239
RPM at max torque 4400

Dimensions

Seats 5
Length, mm 4640
Width, mm 2065
Height, mm 1730
Wheelbase, mm 2670
Front track, mm 1565
Rear track, mm 1570
Kerb weight, kg 1591
Gross weight, kg 2185
Fuel tank capacity, L 48
Turning circle, m 11.6
Ground clearance, mm 220
Width without mirrors, mm 1815
Trunk capacity, L 509

Transmission and drive

Transmission CVT
Transmission type CVT
Drive All-wheel drive
Transmission manufacturer Subaru
Automatic transmission +
Transmission country Japan
2.0ie (156 hp) CVT Lineartronic 4x4 43 specifications

Specifications

Performance and consumption

Fuel consumption city, L/100 km 7.5
Fuel consumption highway, L/100 km 6.2
Fuel consumption combined, L/100 km 6.7
Top speed, km/h 188
Acceleration 0-100 km/h, s 11.8
Emissions standard Euro VI

Engine

Engine 2.0ie
Engine code FB20D e-Boxer
Engine type Hybrid
Fuel type Gasoline
Engine displacement, cc 1995
Cylinder layout Boxer
Number of cylinders 4
Valves 16
Compression ratio 12.5:1
Power, hp 156
RPM at max power 5600–6000
Torque, Nm 196
RPM at max torque 4000
Electric motor power, hp 17
Combustion engine power, hp 150
Combustion engine torque, Nm 194
Electric motor torque, Nm 66

Dimensions

Seats 5
Length, mm 4640
Width, mm 2065
Height, mm 1730
Wheelbase, mm 2670
Front track, mm 1565
Rear track, mm 1570
Kerb weight, kg 1591
Gross weight, kg 2185
Fuel tank capacity, L 48
Turning circle, m 11.6
Ground clearance, mm 220
Width without mirrors, mm 1815
Trunk capacity, L 509

Transmission and drive

Transmission CVT
Transmission type CVT
Drive All-wheel drive
Transmission manufacturer Subaru
Automatic transmission +
Transmission country Japan
2.0ie AT Active (VX) 91 specifications

Specifications

Performance and consumption

Fuel consumption city, L/100 km 7.5
Fuel consumption highway, L/100 km 6.2
Fuel consumption combined, L/100 km 6.7
Top speed, km/h 188
Acceleration 0-100 km/h, s 11.8
Emissions standard Euro VI

Engine

Engine 2.0ie
Engine code FB20D e-Boxer
Engine type Hybrid
Fuel type Gasoline
Engine displacement, cc 1995
Cylinder layout Boxer
Number of cylinders 4
Valves 16
Compression ratio 12.5:1
Power, hp 156
RPM at max power 5600–6000
Torque, Nm 196
RPM at max torque 4000
Electric motor power, hp 17
Combustion engine power, hp 150
Combustion engine torque, Nm 194
Electric motor torque, Nm 66

Dimensions

Seats 5
Length, mm 4640
Width, mm 2065
Height, mm 1730
Wheelbase, mm 2670
Front track, mm 1565
Rear track, mm 1570
Kerb weight, kg 1591
Gross weight, kg 2185
Fuel tank capacity, L 48
Turning circle, m 11.6
Ground clearance, mm 220
Width without mirrors, mm 1815
Trunk capacity, L 509

Transmission and drive

Transmission CVT
Transmission type CVT
Drive All-wheel drive
Transmission manufacturer Subaru
Automatic transmission +
Transmission country Japan

Suspension

Front suspension type MacPherson
Rear suspension type multi-link spring suspension

Brake system

Front brakes Ventilated disc
Rear brakes Ventilated disc

Steering

Power steering Electric power steering

Equipment

Exterior

Roof rails +

Comfort

Cruise control +
Paddle shifters +
Adjustable steering column +
Electric parking brake +

Interior

12V power outlet +

Wheels

Rim diameter 17
Rim type Alloy
Tires 225/60R17

Climate and sound insulation

Heated front seats +
Climate control +

Off-road

Hill descent control +
Hill-start assist +

Seats

Child seat anchors (LATCH/Isofix) +
60/40 split-folding rear seat +

Headlights and lighting

Light sensor +
LED headlights +
LED tail lights +

Multimedia and instruments

Bluetooth hands-free +
CD player +
AUX input +
USB +
Number of speakers 4
Apple CarPlay / Android Auto +
Steering wheel controls +

Glass, mirrors and sunroof

Rain sensor +
Heated side mirrors +
Heated rear window +
Front power windows +
Rear power windows +
Heated windshield wiper area +

Security

Electronic systems

Anti-lock braking system (ABS) +
Lane keeping assist +
Child locks +
Brake assist +
Vehicle dynamic control +

Anti-theft systems

Remote central locking +
Immobilizer +

Airbags

Driver airbag +
Passenger airbag +
Side airbags +
Curtain airbags +
Driver knee airbag +
2.0ie AT Touring (LI) 116 specifications

Specifications

Performance and consumption

Fuel consumption city, L/100 km 7.5
Fuel consumption highway, L/100 km 6.2
Fuel consumption combined, L/100 km 6.7
Top speed, km/h 188
Acceleration 0-100 km/h, s 11.8
Emissions standard Euro VI

Engine

Engine 2.0ie
Engine code FB20D e-Boxer
Engine type Hybrid
Fuel type Gasoline
Engine displacement, cc 1995
Cylinder layout Boxer
Number of cylinders 4
Valves 16
Compression ratio 12.5:1
Power, hp 156
RPM at max power 5600–6000
Torque, Nm 196
RPM at max torque 4000
Electric motor power, hp 17
Combustion engine power, hp 150
Combustion engine torque, Nm 194
Electric motor torque, Nm 66

Dimensions

Seats 5
Length, mm 4640
Width, mm 2065
Height, mm 1730
Wheelbase, mm 2670
Front track, mm 1565
Rear track, mm 1570
Kerb weight, kg 1591
Gross weight, kg 2185
Fuel tank capacity, L 48
Turning circle, m 11.6
Ground clearance, mm 220
Width without mirrors, mm 1815
Trunk capacity, L 509

Transmission and drive

Transmission CVT
Transmission type CVT
Drive All-wheel drive
Transmission manufacturer Subaru
Automatic transmission +
Transmission country Japan

Suspension

Front suspension type MacPherson
Rear suspension type multi-link spring suspension

Brake system

Front brakes Ventilated disc
Rear brakes Ventilated disc

Steering

Power steering Electric power steering

Equipment

Exterior

Rear spoiler +
Roof rails +

Comfort

Paddle shifters +
Tire pressure monitoring +
Adjustable steering column +
Electric parking brake +
Dynamic cruise control +
Smart keyless entry and start +

Interior

Leather-trimmed interior elements +
Multifunction instrument display +
12V power outlet +

Wheels

Rim diameter 17
Rim type Alloy
Tires 225/60R17

Climate and sound insulation

Heated front seats +
Heated rear seats +
Heated steering wheel +
Dual-zone climate control +
Climate control +

Off-road

Hill descent control +
Hill-start assist +

Seats

Child seat anchors (LATCH/Isofix) +
Seat memory +
Height-adjustable driver's seat +
Height-adjustable passenger seat +
60/40 split-folding rear seat +
Power-adjustable driver's seat +

Headlights and lighting

Front fog lights +
Light sensor +
LED headlights +
LED tail lights +
Rear fog lights +
LED daytime running lights +
Automatic high-beam assist +

Multimedia and instruments

Bluetooth hands-free +
CD player +
AUX input +
USB +
Number of speakers 4
Apple CarPlay / Android Auto +
Steering wheel controls +

Trunk

Power tailgate +

Glass, mirrors and sunroof

Rain sensor +
Heated side mirrors +
Heated rear window +
Front power windows +
Rear power windows +
Heated windshield wiper area +
Power-folding side mirrors +
Tinted glass +

Visibility and parking

Rear-view camera +
Front and side cameras +

Security

Electronic systems

Anti-lock braking system (ABS) +
Adaptive front lighting system +
Lane keeping assist +
Child locks +
Driver fatigue detection +
Brake assist +
Lane departure warning +
Vehicle dynamic control +
Pedestrian protection system +

Anti-theft systems

Remote central locking +
Immobilizer +

Airbags

Driver airbag +
Passenger airbag +
Side airbags +
Curtain airbags +
Driver knee airbag +
2.5i AT Premium (FR) 117 specifications

Specifications

Performance and consumption

Fuel consumption city, L/100 km 9.3
Fuel consumption highway, L/100 km 6.3
Fuel consumption combined, L/100 km 7.4
Top speed, km/h 207
Acceleration 0-100 km/h, s 9.5

Engine

Engine 2.5i
Engine code FB25D
Engine type Internal combustion engine
Fuel type Gasoline
Engine displacement, cc 2498
Cylinder layout Boxer
Number of cylinders 4
Valves 16
Compression ratio 12:1
Power, hp 185
RPM at max power 5800
Torque, Nm 239
RPM at max torque 4400

Dimensions

Seats 5
Length, mm 4640
Width, mm 2065
Height, mm 1730
Wheelbase, mm 2670
Front track, mm 1565
Rear track, mm 1570
Kerb weight, kg 1621
Gross weight, kg 2185
Fuel tank capacity, L 48
Turning circle, m 11.6
Ground clearance, mm 220
Width without mirrors, mm 1815
Trunk capacity, L 509

Transmission and drive

Transmission CVT
Transmission type CVT
Drive All-wheel drive
Transmission manufacturer Subaru
Automatic transmission +
Transmission country Japan

Suspension

Front suspension type MacPherson
Rear suspension type multi-link spring suspension

Brake system

Front brakes Ventilated disc
Rear brakes Ventilated disc

Steering

Power steering Electric power steering

Equipment

Exterior

Rear spoiler +
Roof rails +

Comfort

Paddle shifters +
Tire pressure monitoring +
Adjustable steering column +
Electric parking brake +
Dynamic cruise control +
Smart keyless entry and start +

Interior

Leather-trimmed interior elements +
Leather interior +
Multifunction instrument display +
12V power outlet +
Aluminum pedal covers +

Wheels

Rim diameter 18
Rim type Alloy
Tires 225/55R18

Climate and sound insulation

Heated front seats +
Heated rear seats +
Heated steering wheel +
Dual-zone climate control +
Climate control +

Off-road

Hill descent control +
Hill-start assist +

Seats

Child seat anchors (LATCH/Isofix) +
Seat memory +
Height-adjustable driver's seat +
Height-adjustable passenger seat +
60/40 split-folding rear seat +
Power-adjustable driver's seat +

Headlights and lighting

Front fog lights +
Light sensor +
LED headlights +
LED tail lights +
Rear fog lights +
LED daytime running lights +
Automatic high-beam assist +

Multimedia and instruments

Bluetooth hands-free +
CD player +
Subwoofer +
Navigation system +
Audio system Harman Kardon;
AUX input +
USB +
Number of speakers 6
Apple CarPlay / Android Auto +
Steering wheel controls +

Trunk

Power tailgate +

Glass, mirrors and sunroof

Rain sensor +
Heated side mirrors +
Heated rear window +
Front power windows +
Rear power windows +
Heated windshield wiper area +
Power-folding side mirrors +
Sunroof +
Tinted glass +

Visibility and parking

Rear-view camera +
Front and side cameras +

Security

Electronic systems

Anti-lock braking system (ABS) +
Adaptive front lighting system +
Lane keeping assist +
Child locks +
Driver fatigue detection +
Brake assist +
Lane departure warning +
Vehicle dynamic control +
Pedestrian protection system +

Anti-theft systems

Remote central locking +
Immobilizer +

Airbags

Driver airbag +
Passenger airbag +
Side airbags +
Curtain airbags +
Driver knee airbag +
2.5i AT Sport (OC) 112 specifications

Specifications

Performance and consumption

Fuel consumption city, L/100 km 9.3
Fuel consumption highway, L/100 km 6.3
Fuel consumption combined, L/100 km 7.4
Top speed, km/h 207
Acceleration 0-100 km/h, s 9.5

Engine

Engine 2.5i
Engine code FB25D
Engine type Internal combustion engine
Fuel type Gasoline
Engine displacement, cc 2498
Cylinder layout Boxer
Number of cylinders 4
Valves 16
Compression ratio 12:1
Power, hp 185
RPM at max power 5800
Torque, Nm 239
RPM at max torque 4400

Dimensions

Seats 5
Length, mm 4640
Width, mm 2065
Height, mm 1730
Wheelbase, mm 2670
Front track, mm 1565
Rear track, mm 1570
Kerb weight, kg 1621
Gross weight, kg 2185
Fuel tank capacity, L 48
Turning circle, m 11.6
Ground clearance, mm 220
Width without mirrors, mm 1815
Trunk capacity, L 509

Transmission and drive

Transmission CVT
Transmission type CVT
Drive All-wheel drive
Transmission manufacturer Subaru
Automatic transmission +
Transmission country Japan

Suspension

Front suspension type MacPherson
Rear suspension type multi-link spring suspension

Brake system

Front brakes Ventilated disc
Rear brakes Ventilated disc

Steering

Power steering Electric power steering

Equipment

Exterior

Rear spoiler +
Roof rails +

Comfort

Paddle shifters +
Tire pressure monitoring +
Adjustable steering column +
Electric parking brake +
Dynamic cruise control +
Smart keyless entry and start +

Interior

Leather-trimmed interior elements +
Multifunction instrument display +
12V power outlet +

Wheels

Rim diameter 18
Rim type Alloy
Tires 225/55R18

Climate and sound insulation

Heated front seats +
Heated rear seats +
Heated steering wheel +
Dual-zone climate control +
Climate control +

Off-road

Hill descent control +
Hill-start assist +

Seats

Child seat anchors (LATCH/Isofix) +
Seat memory +
Height-adjustable driver's seat +
Height-adjustable passenger seat +
60/40 split-folding rear seat +
Power-adjustable driver's seat +

Headlights and lighting

Front fog lights +
Light sensor +
LED headlights +
LED tail lights +
Rear fog lights +
LED daytime running lights +
Automatic high-beam assist +

Multimedia and instruments

Bluetooth hands-free +
CD player +
Navigation system +
AUX input +
USB +
Number of speakers 6
Apple CarPlay / Android Auto +
Steering wheel controls +

Trunk

Power tailgate +

Glass, mirrors and sunroof

Rain sensor +
Heated side mirrors +
Heated rear window +
Front power windows +
Rear power windows +
Heated windshield wiper area +
Power-folding side mirrors +
Tinted glass +

Visibility and parking

Rear-view camera +
Front and side cameras +

Security

Electronic systems

Anti-lock braking system (ABS) +
Adaptive front lighting system +
Lane keeping assist +
Child locks +
Driver fatigue detection +
Brake assist +
Lane departure warning +
Vehicle dynamic control +
Pedestrian protection system +

Anti-theft systems

Remote central locking +
Immobilizer +

Airbags

Driver airbag +
Passenger airbag +
Side airbags +
Curtain airbags +
Driver knee airbag +
FAQ

Subaru Forester questions

Short answers based on the specifications and photos available in this catalog.

What body style is the 2021 Subaru Forester?

The Subaru Forester is a five-door, five-passenger compact crossover SUV.

What engines are available in the 2021 Forester?

Options include a 2.0-liter (150 hp) and a 2.5-liter (185 hp) naturally aspirated boxer engine. There is also a 2.0-liter e-Boxer hybrid powertrain available in some markets.

Does the 2021 Forester have all-wheel drive?

Yes, every version of the 2021 Subaru Forester comes standard with an all-wheel-drive system and a Lineartronic CVT.

What is the ground clearance of the Subaru Forester?

The standard versions of the 2021 Forester feature 220 mm of ground clearance, which is well above average for its class.

What changes were made for the 2021 update?

The 2021 update includes a refreshed front fascia, retuned suspension for better ride comfort, and an upgraded EyeSight safety system with a wider camera view and advanced emergency steering features.