How much does the 2018 Subaru Forester cost?

Prices have softened 3.09% compared to this time last year, making it a favorable time to shop this model year.

There are 2,997 listings available, which suggests solid inventory for comparison shopping.

If you find a listing below $15,895.79, that's toward the low end of the year-round range and worth acting on quickly.

Is the 2018 Subaru Forester a good car?

Yes — the 2018 Subaru Forester earns a 4.75/5 user rating, which points to strong owner satisfaction.

Drivers consistently praise its spacious interior, safety features, and smooth driving experience. Comfortable seating and user-friendly technology also come up often, which fits a compact SUV that prioritizes everyday usability over flash.

Given its roomy cabin, excellent outward visibility, and standard all-wheel drive, it makes the most sense if you want a practical family vehicle with all-weather confidence. With 32.8% of listings marked as good or great deals, you still have room to shop selectively.

Is the 2018 Subaru Forester reliable?

Owners rate it 4.75/5, a strong signal of long-term satisfaction.

The owner feedback highlights a dependable, trouble-free ownership experience for many drivers, with reliability and practicality standing out as recurring strengths. That said, some owners mention sluggish power and a few minor issues, so you should still evaluate condition carefully.

For used buyers, the main long-term risk is less about the model’s core appeal and more about how well a specific example has been maintained.

What should I look for when buying a used 2018 Subaru Forester?

At 67.9% accident-free, a meaningful share of listings has prior incidents — history verification is especially important.

You should run a vehicle history report before you commit, then prioritize a pre-purchase inspection on any car that looks promising. Focus on body condition, signs of prior repair, and whether the vehicle has been maintained consistently.

Because this model is valued for practicality and safety, a clean, well-kept example is worth more than one with hidden damage or uneven wear.

Is now a good time to buy a used 2018 Subaru Forester?

This looks like a moderate, selective buyer’s market, so you can shop carefully without feeling rushed.

• Deal availability: 32.8% of listings are priced as good or great deals.
• Inventory: There are 2,997 listings available.
• Price trend: Prices have softened 3.09% compared with last year.
• Clean inventory: 67.9% of listings are accident-free.

If you find a listing below $15,895.79, that's toward the low end of the year-round range and worth acting on quickly.

What is the 2018 Subaru Forester's resale value?

The current average of $16,659 sits slightly below last year's $17,191.

That softer pricing can help you buy more carefully now, but it also means future resale gains may be more modest if the market stays steady. If you plan to sell later, condition and maintenance history will matter a lot, especially because buyers in this segment tend to compare clean examples closely.

Vehicles with strong owner satisfaction ratings, like this model year's 4.75/5, tend to retain buyer demand, which supports resale value over time.

Should I buy a 2018 Subaru Forester or consider a different year?

If you're weighing the 2018 against nearby model years, here's how to think about it:

Choose the 2018 if:

• 32.8% of listings are priced as good or great deals.
• At 67.9% accident-free, a meaningful share of listings has prior incidents — history verification is especially important.
• Price trend: Prices have softened 3.09% compared with last year.
• Owners rate it 4.75/5 — a strong satisfaction signal.

Consider the 2017 if:

• At $14,708, the 2017 costs less than the current year's $16,659 average.
• It offers a sensible, value-focused take on the Forester with a straightforward, practical character.

Consider the 2019 if:

• At $18,881, the 2019 costs more than the current year's $16,659 average.
• It emphasizes all-weather confidence, space, and easy-to-use technology.

The bottom line: The 2018 is the best all-around choice if you want a well-liked, practical Forester at a softened market price. If your priority is saving money, the 2017 is the better value play; if you want to spend more for a newer-feeling option, the 2019 is the natural upgrade path.

These recommendations are based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from August 21, 2026, CarGurus experts' opinions, and generative AI.