2013 Subaru Forester Diesel review - Long-term owner

Multimedia and safety technology: 7/10

Sufficient to fulfil my needs, but not so much that it is intrusive or unreliable. Bluetooth works well. ABS doesn't cut in too soon, but works well when you need it.

Practicality: 9/10

Great. Plenty of space, although I will always test the limits. The tailgate allows great access, other than the low height that has led to my wife and I banging our heads. The seats adjust electrically, so it is easy for anyone to get comfortable. The full-size spare wheel compartment has room for a selection of tools.

Driving: 9/10

Reasonable power for a diesel. Easy to place the car on the road. Corners well. Armchair ride makes for pleasant long-distance driving. Quiet, even at speed. Very good for towing, both long distance and for tight work.

Running costs: 8/10

I consistently get 7-7.2L/100km (~40mpg) generally, unless I am towing. General servicing is a reasonable cost. I have had two major repairs in 160,000km: a new clutch shortly after I bought it (I don't know how the previous owner treated it), and the fuel pump inside the engine casing leaked and needed to be replaced. Each of those repairs cost $5k, but that is not bad over 160,000km. Insurance is basic.

Reliability: 7/10

The car has been used very hard and has come through it all with flying colours. It has never let me down. I once hit two kangaroos at 120km/h. There was some bodywork damage, but the headlights, radiator, air-conditioner, steering and suspension were not affected, and I was able to continue the trip (The kangaroos were not so lucky!).

I have spoken above about the repairs needed, but they were handled at service time and never put me off the road. The most frustrating issue was the HID globes failing repeatedly. That drove me crazy for a while. I eventually resolved this by having LED globes fitted.