Subaru Forester review
SJ & SK · 2013–2021 imports
The Forester is the people's SUV in Kenya: standard all-wheel drive, good ground clearance and a roomy cabin at a sensible price.
Price guide (used)
KSh 2,000,000 – KSh 4,500,000
Our verdict
An excellent family SUV for Kenyan conditions. The non-turbo models are the safe buy; the turbo XT is quick but needs a careful owner and a Subaru specialist.
Best for: Families, rough roads, weekend trips
What we like
- ✅ Symmetrical all-wheel drive as standard
- ✅ Generous ground clearance
- ✅ Spacious and practical cabin
- ✅ Great visibility
What we don't
- ❌ Thirstier than a saloon
- ❌ Turbo versions are costly to fix
- ❌ CVT needs regular fluid changes
Driving
Grip is excellent on wet tarmac and murram thanks to full-time AWD. The ride is firm but composed, and the boxer engine has a smooth, low centre of gravity feel.
Running costs
Expect 10–13 km/L for the 2.0 non-turbo. Parts are widely available in Nairobi, but use a mechanic who knows Subaru boxer engines to avoid head-gasket and oil-consumption problems.
Practicality
Five adults travel comfortably and the boot is large and square. Roof rails make it easy to carry luggage for safaris.
What to check when buying
Check for oil consumption, CVT judder and that all four tyres are the same brand and wear — mismatched tyres can damage the AWD system.
Running costs
Typical monthly cost to run a Forester worth about 3.3M, using our real-world economy figure (9–13 km/L).
About KSh 36 per km · 1,200 km a month. Fuel at EPRA Nairobi prices (15 Oct 2026); estimates only.
Spare parts & servicing prices
What common parts and jobs cost for a Subaru Forester in Kenya.
| Part / job | Typical cost (KSh) |
|---|---|
| Minor service (oil, oil filter, labour)every 5,000–10,000 km | 8,000 – 14,000 |
| Major service (plugs, air & fuel filters, fluids)every 40,000 km | 20,000 – 35,000 |
| Front brake pads (fitted)every 20,000–40,000 km | 5,000 – 9,000 |
| Front shock absorbers (pair, fitted)every 60,000–100,000 km | 18,000 – 40,000 |
| Batteryevery 2–3 years | 13,000 – 20,000 |
| Tyre (each, new mid-range)every 40,000–50,000 km | 11,000 – 18,000 |
| CV joint (one side, fitted) | 8,000 – 15,000 |
| Gearbox oil service (ATF / CVT)every 40,000–60,000 km | 10,000 – 18,000 |
Typical mid-size SUV prices for quality aftermarket parts fitted at an independent garage in Nairobi. Genuine parts and dealer servicing often cost 1.5–3× more; prices vary by town and supplier.
What owners say
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