Subaru Forester generations & buyer's guide
7 Subaru Forester listings for sale →The Subaru Forester is a compact crossover SUV introduced in 1997, sharing its Subaru Global Platform with the Impreza. Six generations have been produced through 2025. The first three generations (SF, SG, SH) used the EJ20 horizontally opposed four-cylinder in both naturally aspirated and turbocharged configurations; the SF and SG turbocharged variants (XT/STI models) produced up to 177 PS JDM-spec. The SJ and later generations moved to the FB-series engines. Import interest focuses primarily on the SF and SG turbocharged variants for their EJ20T compatibility and Impreza STI platform sharing. The Forester's combination of AWD, raised ride height, and estate-like cargo space made it popular across Japanese domestic and export markets from launch.
Common across all Forester generations
- ✓ Symmetrical all-wheel drive standard across all generations
- ✓ Horizontally opposed (boxer) four-cylinder engine in all production variants
- ✓ Five-door wagon/crossover body style throughout production
- ✓ Platform shared with Subaru Impreza across SF, SG, and SH generations
- ✓ Right-hand drive available in all generations
Generation timeline
Fourth generation — SJ (2013–2018)
Engine references
Frequently asked questions
- Which Forester generation is most common to import?
- First generation — SF (1997–2002) are the most commonly imported generations based on active listings on JDM Buy Sell.
- Are all Subaru Forester generations right-hand drive?
- All JDM-spec Subaru Forester variants were produced in right-hand drive throughout the model's production history in Japan. Importers should verify the specific vehicle's build sheet to confirm the original market specification.
- What engines are shared across Forester generations?
- Horizontally opposed (boxer) four-cylinder engine in all production variants
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