CoPilot AI-Assisted Car Shopping

SubaruForester2015 Subaru Forester
2024
2021
2017
2016
2015

2015 Subaru Forester

2025 Audi A4 TDI Ultra

Price Estimate

$3,495 - $22,998

Price & Payment

$12,004
Average Price
$3,495
$22,998
2015-subaru-forester-price

2015 Subaru Forester Price

The 2015 Subaru Forester is available in numerous trims:

  • 2015 Subaru Forester 2.5i
  • 2015 Subaru Forester 2.5i Premium
  • 2015 Subaru Forester 2.5i Limited
  • 2015 Subaru Forester 2.0XT Premium
  • 2015 Subaru Forester 2.5i Touring
  • 2015 Subaru Forester 2.0XT Touring
  • The 2015 Subaru Forester price starts at $3,495 and goes up to $22,998, depending on trim, condition, and mileage.
2015-subaru-forester-highlights

2015 Subaru Forester Highlights

The 2015 Subaru Forester enhances its safety and convenience features while maintaining its position as a practical and capable compact SUV.

Key Details

  • Compact crossover SUV body style
  • Two-row, five-passenger seating
  • Standard symmetrical all-wheel drive
  • Available turbocharged engine option
  • The rearview camera is now standard across all models
  • All-Weather Package added to turbocharged XT models
  • Moonroof standard with manual transmission on 2.5i Premium
  • The navigation system becomes optional on higher trims

Benefits

  • Standard all-wheel drive
  • Choice of regular or turbocharged engines
  • Spacious interior and cargo area
  • Strong safety ratings
  • Good fuel economy for all-wheel drive vehicle
  • Available manual transmission
  • Generous ground clearance

Related: 2015 Subaru Forester Pros and Cons: What To Know When Weighing Your Decision

Key Specs

Seats
5
Fuel Economy
24City MPG
32Hwy MPG
NHTSA Rating Summary
Copilot Rating
Dimensions
Engine
4 Cylinder
Transmission
Automatic
Drivetrain
All Wheel Drive
Weight
3,285 lbs.
2015-subaru-forester-overview

2015 Subaru Forester Overview

Performance

The 2015 Subaru Forester offers two engine options:

2.5-liter four-cylinder (2.5i models):

  • 170 horsepower and 174 lb-ft of torque
  • Available with a six-speed manual or continuously variable transmission (CVT)
  • 2015 Subaru Forester 0-60 mph in approximately 9.0 seconds

2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder (XT models):

  • 250 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque
  • High-torque CVT standard
  • 2015 Subaru Forester 0-60 mph in approximately 6.2 seconds

All models feature Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, with different versions for manual and CVT-equipped models. The CVT version includes X-Mode for enhanced off-road capability in challenging conditions.

Key performance features include:

  • 8.7 inches of ground clearance
  • Active Torque Split AWD (CVT models)
  • Hill Descent Control (with X-Mode)
  • Vehicle Dynamics Control

Safety

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded the 2015 Subaru Forester a top five-star overall safety rating. In addition, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) named the 2015 Forester a Top Safety Pick+, its highest designation, when it’s equipped with front crash prevention.

Standard safety features include:

  • Seven airbags, including a driver's knee airbag
  • Ring-shaped reinforcement frame
  • Whiplash-reducing front seats
  • Anti-lock braking system
  • Newly standard rearview camera
  • Brake assist and brake override

The available EyeSight system includes:

  • Pre-collision braking
  • Lane departure warning
  • Pre-collision throttle management
  • Adaptive cruise control

Driving

The 2015 Subaru Forester delivers a driving experience that balances everyday comfort with all-weather capability. The standard 2.5-liter engine provides adequate power for daily driving, while the turbocharged XT model offers more robust performance.

The available transmissions each have distinct characteristics:

  • The six-speed manual offers direct engagement and control
  • CVT prioritizes fuel efficiency with simulated gear changes

The Forester's 8.7-inch ground clearance allows it to confidently handle rough roads and light off-road duty. The standard all-wheel-drive system provides sure-footed traction in various weather conditions.

The steering is well-weighted and responsive, offering good feedback to the driver. The suspension tuning favors comfort while maintaining good body control through corners.

Road noise is well-controlled, though wind noise is noticeable around the upright body shape at highway speeds.

Interior

The 2015 Subaru Forester's interior focuses on practicality and comfort, offering generous space for passengers and cargo.

Key interior features include:

  • Height-adjustable driver's seat
  • Tilt and telescoping steering wheel
  • 60/40 split-folding rear seats
  • Available Ten-way power driver's seat
  • Available leather upholstery
  • Available heated front seats

The Forester's cabin is notably spacious:

  • 41.4 inches of front headroom
  • 39.8 inches of rear headroom
  • 43.0 inches of front legroom
  • 37.5 inches of rear legroom

Cargo capacity is impressive for the class:

  • 34.4 cubic feet behind the rear seats
  • 74.7 cubic feet with rear seats folded

The interior layout is straightforward and functional, with controls logically arranged and easily accessible. The high seating position and large windows provide excellent visibility in all directions.

Technology

The 2015 Subaru Forester comes equipped with various technology features:

  • Standard rearview camera
  • Available 6.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system
  • Optional navigation system
  • Bluetooth hands-free connectivity
  • Available Harman Kardon audio system

Additional available features include:

  • Keyless access with push-button start
  • Power rear liftgate
  • Auto-dimming rearview mirror
  • HD Radio

Fuel Economy

The 2015 Subaru Forester's fuel economy varies by engine and transmission choice. According to the EPA, the Forester achieves the following fuel economy estimates:

2.5-liter four-cylinder engine:

  • AWD/Manual (mpg): 22 city / 29 highway / 24 combined
  • AWD/CVT (mpg): 24 city / 32 highway / 27 combined

2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine (XT):

  • AWD/CVT (mpg): 23 city / 28 highway / 25 combined

Trim Comparison

2015 Subaru Forester 2.5i Premium
listings: 441
2015 Subaru Forester 2.5i Limited
listings: 239
2015 Subaru Forester 2.5i
listings: 186
2015 Subaru Forester 2.5i Touring
listings: 103
2015 Subaru Forester 2.0XT Touring
listings: 67
2015 Subaru Forester 2.0XT Premium
listings: 34
2015-subaru-forester-reviews

2015 Subaru Forester Reviews

2015 Subaru Forester consumer reviews on Kelley Blue Book are generally positive, with an average rating of 4.2 out of 5. Owners give the Forester similar or better scores for its value, quality, reliability, performance, comfort, and styling.

Reasons to Buy It

  • Standard all-wheel drive
  • Excellent visibility with large windows
  • Spacious interior and cargo area
  • Strong safety ratings
  • Available turbocharged engine option
  • Good fuel economy for an AWD vehicle
  • Generous ground clearance
  • Available manual transmission option

Problems

  • Some CVT transmission hesitation was reported
  • Basic interior materials in lower trims
  • Limited standard technology features
  • Wind noise at highway speeds
  • The non-turbocharged engine can feel underpowered
  • High number of complaints on file with NHTSA

Explore: Here Are The Subaru Forester Years To Avoid

CoPilot's Take

The 2015 Subaru Forester represents a practical and capable option in the compact SUV segment. Its combination of standard all-wheel drive, generous ground clearance, and spacious interior make it particularly appealing for buyers who value versatility and all-weather capability.

The Forester's strengths lie in its fundamental qualities. The spacious cabin, excellent visibility, and comfortable ride make it well-suited for daily use, while the standard all-wheel drive and X-Mode system provide confidence in challenging conditions.

However, potential buyers should consider a few factors. The base engine provides adequate but not particularly spirited performance, and the CVT transmission may take some adjustment for drivers used to traditional automatics. Interior materials, while durable, may feel basic compared to some competitors, particularly in lower trims.

Lastly, NHTSA reports an unusually high amount of nearly 600 2015 Subaru Forester problems. The problem areas include the engine, powertrain, and electrical system, indicating possible reliability issues.

Browse 2015 Subaru Forester near you

2015 Subaru Forester
2.5L H4 Engine
$3,495
2015 Subaru Forester
2.5L H4 Engine
$3,900
2015 Subaru Forester
2.0L H4 Engine
$3,995
2015-subaru-forester-faqs

2015 Subaru Forester FAQs

Is 2015 a good year for the Subaru Forester?

Prospective buyers should approach the 2015 Subaru Forester with a certain degree of caution. Reports from NHTSA and carcomplaints.com show this vehicle has a history of engine, powertrain, and electrical system troubles. This doesn’t mean that every example is plagued with problems. Still, it’s a potent reminder that any 2015 Forester under consideration should undergo a comprehensive pre-purchase inspection by a professional mechanic.

Are there any problems with the 2015 Subaru Forester?

Report trouble areas for the 2015 Forester include:

CVT Transmission:

  • Transmission failure
  • Hesitation during acceleration
  • Shuddering in some cases
  • Occasional rough operation

Oil Consumption:

  • Some engines use more oil than expected
  • It may require monitoring between changes
  • Potential for increased maintenance costs

Electrical Issues:

  • Battery drain problems
  • Infotainment system glitches
  • Sensor malfunctions

How many miles will the 2015 Subaru Forester last?

A 2015 Subaru Forester can last 200,000 miles or more with proper maintenance. Longevity factors include:

Maintenance:

  • Regular oil changes
  • Following service schedule
  • Addressing issues promptly
  • Using quality parts and fluids

Driving Conditions:

  • Type of use (city vs. highway)
  • Climate conditions
  • Storage conditions
  • Driving style

Care Practices:

  • Regular cleaning
  • Rust prevention
  • Proper warm-up
  • Appropriate loading

To maximize lifespan:

  • Follow the maintenance schedule strictly
  • Use qualified mechanics familiar with Subarus
  • Address problems promptly
  • Keep detailed service records

Does the 2015 Subaru Forester have transmission problems?

The CVT transmission in the 2015 Forester has received attention for potential issues:

Reported Concerns:

Operation:

  • Hesitation during acceleration
  • Shuddering or vibration
  • Delayed response
  • Rough shifting simulation

Maintenance:

  • It may require more frequent fluid changes
  • Specialized service needs
  • Specific fluid requirements

Prevention:

  • Regular maintenance crucial
  • Follow service intervals
  • Use specified transmission fluid
  • Address issues promptly

Mitigation Strategies:

Regular Maintenance:

  • Follow service schedule
  • Use professional service centers
  • Keep maintenance records
  • Use specified fluids

Driving Habits:

  • Avoid aggressive acceleration
  • Allow proper warm-up
  • Don't overload the vehicle
  • Use appropriate driving modes

Check Out: Which Years Of Used Subaru Foresters Are Most Reliable?

© 2025 CoPilot. All Rights Reserved.