Subaru Forester 2nd Gen
The second-generation Forester is a versatile all-wheel-drive crossover, but it's the turbocharged 2.5 XT model that defines its legacy. These WRX-powered wagons are sleeper performance icons, with clean, manual-transmission examples driving the collector market.
Subaru Forester 2nd Gen sold for a median of $11,000 over the last 12 months, based on 17 auction sales; the middle 50% sold between $9,300 and $16,000. 54 currently for sale.
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Subaru Forester 2nd Gen prices by year
| Year | Median (3 yrs) | Middle 50% | Sales (3 yrs) | For sale now |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2003 | $9.7k | – | 1 | 9 |
| 2004 | $12k | $9.1k–$16k | 14 | 14 |
| 2005 | $10k | $9.2k–$13k | 6 | 7 |
| 2006 | $8.6k | $6.8k–$11k | 4 | 7 |
| 2007 | $19k | $18k–$23k | 4 | 10 |
| 2008 | $13k | $9.5k–$16k | 13 | 5 |
Auction sales in the last 3 years; prices leave out salvage and other branded titles.
Listings
The second-generation Subaru Forester (SG) ran from 2003 to 2008, refining the quirky wagon-like crossover formula of its predecessor. The most significant development arrived in 2004 with the Forester 2.5 XT, which featured a detuned version of the 2.5L turbocharged engine from the Impreza WRX STi. This turned the practical Forester into a true sleeper, offering surprising performance in an unassuming package. A 2006 facelift updated the styling and brought slight power increases, making these later models particularly desirable.
Collector interest is focused almost entirely on the turbocharged XT variant, especially examples equipped with the 5-speed manual transmission. Its combination of practicality and tunable, WRX-derived power has created a strong enthusiast following. These cars offer a unique blend of all-weather capability and performance that's hard to find elsewhere. Unmodified, low-mileage, and well-documented XTs are becoming increasingly scarce and sought-after.
Buying Tips
- On turbocharged 2.5 XT models, check for signs of turbo failure like smoke or shaft play. The banjo bolt filters can clog, leading to oil starvation and costly repairs.
- The naturally aspirated EJ25 engine is known for head gasket failures. Look for external oil or coolant leaks around the heads and check for mixing in the coolant reservoir.
- The timing belt is a critical service item due every 105,000 miles. If there's no record of it being replaced, assume it needs to be done immediately.
- Inspect the rear subframe, quarter panels, and suspension mounting points for rust, especially on cars from northern climates.
- Many XTs are modified. Favor cars with quality parts and a documented history, as reversing poor modifications can be expensive.
170 Subaru Forester 2nd Gen vehicles have been tracked across auctions and listings on Hypercars, with 54 currently live.
Data sourced from auction results and dealer and private listings, including Bring a Trailer, Cars & Bids, Mecum, RM Sotheby’s and eBay Motors. Updated daily.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Subaru Forester 2nd Gen cost?
Over the last 12 months, Subaru Forester 2nd Gen sold for a median of $11,000 across 17 auction sales tracked on Hypercars; the middle 50% sold between $9,300 and $16,000. There are 54 currently for sale.
How many Subaru Forester 2nd Gen listings are for sale right now?
There are 54 Subaru Forester 2nd Gen listings currently live across auctions, dealers, and marketplaces tracked by Hypercars.