Used 2013 Subaru Forester for Sale near Indiana
50 results
About 2013 Subaru Forester
Overview

They say it's darkest before the dawn, and with the debut of Subaru's 2013 Forester, we begin to see some of that updating predawn of the next generation, with previously optional features becoming standard for the 2.5X models. But nothing changed in this final Forester of the third generation, unless you're counting the change you would get because you won't have to buy those options at retail. The last 4 iterations of this Forester since the 2009 shedding of its wagon skin have been good to Subaru and its fans, earning it a coveted place among the compact SUV competition for its impressive cargo capacity and cabin comfort. Although road manners, technology and efficiency remain points of concern for some, Subaru hopes to change that in the next generation's start for 2014.
That said, PZEV (Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle) standards are expected to come fully into play for the 2013 Forester, so you may notice some differences in performance in this new model—most especially in the turbocharged 2.5XT editions. The naturally aspirated 2.5X engine is rumored to already be largely PZEV-compliant, so it looks like only the XT will get the more expensive catalytic converters and tweaked ECM programming, but you should expect some discrepancies between the advertised performance and efficiency figures versus real-world experience no matter which level you get into for 2013.
That doesn't mean it should perform worse—to be sure, if you're going to spring for a catalytic converter with that much precious metal, you would expect improved performance beyond meeting the carbon emissions protocol. However, since no 2013 versions are available for testing just yet, nobody knows for sure whether or how the new setup will affect the X's present 21 mpg city/27 highway estimate, or the XT's 19/24. Subaru assures there will be no change, but plenty of drivers have found differently in the past—sometimes pleasantly, but sometimes for the worse, too.
Some of the X models were designated as PZEV for 2012, and while none of the drivers note any significant differences, there are a lot of drivers complaining about poor manufacturing consistency. In other words, Subaru was still working the kinks out for 2012, and several bad apples left the line with some pretty severe problems, ranging from a dead starter to a leak somewhere triggering the Check Engine dummy light, which may not even be separate problems. The 5-speed manual versions seem to work just fine, but the 4-speed automatic not only hampers fuel economy, but is also rife with problematic reviews. Don't expect that to improve much for 2013, since Subaru intends to replace that automatic with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) for 2014.
You can, however, safely expect the same but relatively new 2.5-liter boxer 4-cylinder to send power to all 4 wheels throughout 2013 and 2014, with the familiar 170-hp naturally aspirated version marked as the 2.5X and the 224-hp turbo denoted as the 2.5XT. Premium and Touring remain the only trims for the 2.5XT level, and these carry over into 2013 absolutely unchanged. The stereo and navigation systems from the XT are now standard in the base 2.5X, 2.5X Premium, 2.5X Limited and 2.5X Touring, and the Value Package is updated with the display-type audio system and other options previously available only to the upper tiers. Other than that, it's the same Subaru Forester you could get in 2012, but the last of its kind.
Relevant articles

The Best Cheap Cars for Snow in 2026
Driving in winter conditions can be hard on both cars and drivers, but you don't need to spend a fortune to find a reliable, capable car for snow driving.

The Best Used Small SUVs in 2026
Small SUVs have soared in popularity in recent years, which in turn has driven more choice than ever before. Here are our favourite models on the used market.
The Best Used SUVs of 2026
Finding the right used SUV can be daunting, which is why we've gathered a comprehensive list featuring well-rounded, family-friendly options in several popular categories.
4.5 Overall rating
Filter by rating
Anna B
Reviewed a 2013 Subaru Forester on Sep 20, 2022
I liked the features, the body style, the 4 cylinder engine. Its a really good SUV and the price was good.
Anonymous
Reviewed a 2013 Subaru 2.5X on Jun 28, 2013
This is a great family car with AWD capability. It handles well in the snow or on dry pavement. The engine is designed with color-coded items for people to self-maintain the car. The towing capacity is pretty nice for the size of car too.
Anonymous
Reviewed a 2013 Subaru Forester on Jul 9, 2021
The 2013 XT has enough power to please and the looks of the 2009-2013 body style I really like.
Jay V
Reviewed a 2013 Subaru Forester on Feb 8, 2021
Very basic interior but a quality reliable car. What I’m looking for, but hard to find for a reasonable price and in manual.
2013 Subaru Forester Trims
| Trim type | MSRP |
|---|---|
| 2.5XT Limited | -- |
| 2.5X | $21,295 |
| 2.5X Limited | $26,995 |
| 2.5X Premium | $24,295 |
| 2.5X Touring | $28,395 |
| 2.5X Convenience | -- |
| 2.5XT Premium | $27,295 |
| 2.5XT Touring | $29,995 |
2013 Subaru Forester Price Trends
CarGurus tracks the prices of millions of used car listings every year. See how the average price of 2013 Subaru Forester prices has changed over time.
See more price trends








