Subaru Foresters are one of the most reliable mid-size SUVs on Australian roads—especially for WA families. Known for their long-term durability, the Forester combines a robust Boxer engine, full-time Symmetrical AWD, and leading safety tech like EyeSight® Driver Assist. It handles WA’s mix of city streets, bush tracks, and coastal drives with ease, while offering the space, comfort, and features families need as they grow. Add in capped-price servicing, a 5-year/unlimited km warranty, and strong resale value, and the Forester stands out as a smart, dependable choice for everyday life in Western Australia.
Picture this: you’re halfway down the Forrest Highway, kids snoozing in the back, an esky full of snacks, and you’ve got plans to hit Bunbury for the weekend. You’re not thinking about your car, because it just works. That’s the peace of mind WA families want in a vehicle. That’s the Subaru Forester.
So, are Subaru Foresters reliable cars? The short answer is yes, but there’s more to the story. Let’s dive into why this mid-size SUV is one of the smartest, most dependable choices for family life in Western Australia.
Why the Subaru Forester is one of the most reliable SUVs in Australia
When families shop for a car, they’re not just buying a vehicle; they’re choosing their everyday safety net. School drop-offs, supermarket runs, weekend sport, coastal road trips, your car has to show up for it all.
Subaru’s Forester has long been recognised as one of the most dependable mid-size SUVs on the market. Its reputation isn’t just hype; it’s grounded in decades of proven engineering. With a robust Boxer engine, constant Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, and industry-leading safety features, the Forester consistently scores high for long-term reliability and owner satisfaction.
And it’s not just about mechanical durability. Subaru’s engineering philosophy is all about balance and simplicity, reducing stress on components so the vehicle holds up better over time. That means fewer costly surprises for WA families down the line.
Why Forester thrives in WA conditions
From coastal suburbs to red-dirt trails, WA roads can be punishing. That’s where the Forester really proves itself.
Thanks to its 220mm ground clearance, hill descent control, and X-MODE® terrain system, it handles gravel roads, muddy campsites, and unexpected weather with ease. Whether you’re navigating Canning Vale’s roundabouts or ducking out to Dwellingup, it adapts without fuss.
Unlike front-wheel-drive SUVs, the Forester’s full-time AWD system delivers confident traction on wet bitumen and loose surfaces alike. And it’s not just for bush getaways, city drivers love the composed handling and soft suspension that make school runs and CBD commutes feel effortless.
For WA families who need one car to do it all, that versatility is gold.
Safety and tech you can count on
Nothing matters more than your family’s safety. That’s why the Forester is packed with standard safety tech that many rivals reserve for top-spec models.
Subaru’s award-winning EyeSight® Driver Assist includes pre-collision braking, adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, and more, an extra set of eyes on the road when life gets chaotic. Add in Subaru Vision Assist (with blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert), and you’re surrounded by protective smarts.
It’s no surprise the Forester continues to earn 5-star ANCAP safety ratings across the board. But it’s not just about crash protection, it’s about helping prevent accidents in the first place.
Inside, the Forester blends practicality with comfort. Easy-to-clean materials, rear USB ports, generous legroom, ISOFIX anchors, and a boot that swallows strollers with ease, this is family-first design, done right.
Built for growing families (and everything that comes with them)
Life doesn’t stand still—especially with kids in the mix. The Subaru Forester is designed to grow with your family, from newborn to P-plates and everything in between.
Need to load in a pram, a nappy bag, and two scooters? Easy. The wide-opening rear doors, low boot lip, and spacious interior make packing the Forester a stress-free routine. Inside, there’s room to stretch out, stash snacks, and still have space for the dog.
And when it’s time to get out of town, the Forester’s practical touches come into their own. You’ve got roof rails for bikes or roof pods, a boot that swallows camping gear, and tech like rear air vents and multiple USB ports to keep everyone comfortable along the way.
Plus, safety features like ISOFIX anchors, rear seatbelt reminders, and Subaru’s legendary EyeSight® system make it easy to stay one step ahead, no matter how fast your kids are growing.
Servicing, resale and long term value
In a cost-of-living crunch, reliability also means predictability. That’s why Subaru’s capped-price servicing and strong resale value matter. Forester owners benefit from a straightforward service schedule and access to genuine parts through Perth City Subaru’s trusted network.
Subaru vehicles have some of the highest retained value in the SUV segment, and that’s no accident. WA families appreciate that the Forester holds its value, thanks to its proven durability, strong brand trust, and ongoing demand in both city and regional markets.
Plus, with a 5-year/unlimited km warranty and available roadside assistance, Forester owners drive with genuine peace of mind, on highways and backroads alike.
Ready for a car you can count on?
For Perth families looking for a reliable, practical SUV that’s ready for school life, sandy weekends, and the years in between, the Subaru Forester ticks every box.
Whether you’re new to the Subaru family or upgrading from a compact hatch, it’s worth seeing how the Forester feels in action.
Read to see why so many WA families trust the Forester? Book your Forester test drive in Perth today or talk to our team about family-ready SUVs.
Want to explore more about why this SUV fits WA life so well? Here’s what makes the Subaru Forester a favourite among local families.