Models
Importing a Subaru Forester from the USA: generations, model years and what to check
The Subaru Forester is one of the most practical crossovers for Georgian roads — Symmetrical all-wheel drive standard on every trim, high ground clearance and excellent visibility. It appears regularly on US auctions (Copart, IAAI). Below are the generations, model years and what to check before you buy.
Generations and model years
4th generation (SJ), 2014–2018
Boxer (flat-4) engine: 2.5L (170 hp) or the 2.0XT turbo (FA20DIT, 250 hp) — this was the last turbo Forester. Lineartronic CVT standard, with a 6-speed manual on early base versions. After the 2016 update equipment improved. A budget-friendly, durable pick.
5th generation (SK), 2019–2024
Built on the Subaru Global Platform — better handling, safety and interior. A 2.5L (182 hp) boxer only, with a CVT; no turbo or manual any more. EyeSight safety is standard. Trims: Base, Premium, Sport, Limited, Touring, and from 2022 the Wilderness (off-road). This generation is the most popular to import.
6th generation, 2025+
The new generation (including a hybrid version) is slowly appearing at auction — still limited in number and priced high.
Forester year by year — 2014 to 2024
Below, each model year is covered separately — what changed that year and what to keep in mind when importing in 2026 (especially age and excise).
Forester 2014
Start of the 4th generation (SJ) — new design, more space and a CVT. The 2.0XT turbo (250 hp) arrived. In 2026 it is already over 6 years old, so the higher (triple) excise applies — but it is the cheapest Forester at auction.
Forester 2015
A carryover of the 2014 with no major changes — 2.5L or 2.0XT turbo, standard AWD. A reliable budget option. Over 6 years old, so the excise is high.
Forester 2016
A minor update — improved sound insulation and equipment, with added safety features. 2.5L or turbo. Over 6 years old in 2026 — factor in the higher excise at customs.
Forester 2017
EyeSight became more widely available and the multimedia was updated. Both the 2.5L and the 2.0XT are available. A well-equipped used car. Over 6 years old in 2026.
Forester 2018
The final SJ year — the most refined of this generation and the last turbo (2.0XT) Forester. A dependable option for a budget. Over 6 years old → higher excise.
Forester 2019
An all-new 5th generation (SK) on the Subaru Global Platform: a new 2.5L (182 hp), EyeSight standard and a Sport trim. The turbo and manual were dropped. Importing a Forester 2019 from the USA is popular, though in 2026 it is already over 6 years old.
Forester 2020
A carryover 5th generation with minor equipment additions — steady and sorted. It turns 6 in 2026 — the excise is borderline, so confirm with the calculator.
Forester 2021
Equipment updates and EyeSight improvements. Importing a Forester 2021 from the USA pays off: it is still under 6 years, so the excise is low.
Forester 2022
A facelift and the new Wilderness trim — raised clearance and off-road gear. In 2026 it is comfortably under 6 years, so clearing it is cheap. A balance between price and being recent.
Forester 2023
Minor equipment and safety updates — modern features plus a low excise. One of the best choices to import in 2026.
Forester 2024
The final SK year before the 2025 new generation — the most sorted of this generation. The newest → the lowest excise (well under 6 years). If your budget allows, the Forester 2024 is the best balance of recency and price.
For the exact customs on any year see the 2026 excise rules or use the calculator.
Engine and drivetrain — which to choose
- 2.5L boxer: simple, reliable, economical — most Foresters are this.
- 2.0XT turbo (2014–2018): quick (250 hp), but uses more fuel and needs more care; only in the 4th generation.
- Symmetrical AWD: all-wheel drive is standard on every Forester — there is no front-wheel-drive version.
What to check before bidding
- Damage history: most Foresters come with a salvage title — check the damage type and frame integrity.
- CVT gearbox: on high-mileage cars, check the Lineartronic CVT condition and service history.
- Turbo (XT): on the 2.0XT, check the turbo and the oil-change history.
- Recalls: some years have known recalls — a VIN check is essential.
To assess a damaged lot see the Copart guide and run a VIN check.
Common problems — what to watch for
The Forester is reliable overall, but each generation has known weak spots:
- SJ (2014–2018): some 2.5L (FB25) units show higher oil consumption; the turbo XT needs regular oil changes. Check the oil level.
- SK (2019–2024): mostly sorted; on high mileage watch the CVT and wheel bearings. Check for the known battery-drain cases.
- General: test the A/C, the large windshield (cracks are common) and infotainment — on damaged lots these are often the affected parts.
Fuel economy and mileage
The 2.5L boxer uses about 9–10 L/100 km in the city and 7–8 on the highway. The 2.0XT turbo is thirstier (10–12 L in town). With proper care a Forester lasts 250,000+ km. At auction, 100,000–150,000 km (60,000–90,000 miles) is a good balance between price and remaining life.
Forester vs the rivals — Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Subaru Outback
The Forester's main edge is standard all-wheel drive on every version, high clearance and excellent visibility — practical in mountain regions. The Toyota RAV4 holds resale value better and has cheaper parts. The Honda CR-V rides comfortably. The Subaru Outback has the same AWD but is a lower wagon. If mountain roads are the priority, the Forester leads.
Why the Forester is popular in Georgia
Standard Symmetrical AWD and high clearance are ideal for Caucasus roads — the Forester handles snow and poor roads confidently. Large windows give great visibility, and the boxer engine keeps a low centre of gravity. Parts and service are available. That is why the Forester stays an in-demand model to import.
Customs and price
The Forester engine is usually 2.5L, so excise depends on age — a model under 6 years is significantly cheaper to clear (the 2.0XT turbo is slightly smaller in displacement, but age still dominates). See the 2026 excise rules. For the exact cost of a specific lot use the calculator or get a personal quote.
Frequently asked questions
Which Forester generation is best to import?
The 5th generation (2019–2024) is the most popular — Subaru Global Platform, EyeSight standard, and lower excise on models under 6 years. For budget, the 4th generation (2014–2018).
Do all Foresters have all-wheel drive?
Yes. Symmetrical AWD is standard on every Forester — there is no front-wheel-drive version. That is a key advantage for mountainous Georgia.
Does the Forester have a turbo engine?
The 2.0XT turbo (250 hp) is only in the 4th generation (2014–2018). The 5th generation (2019+) has no turbo — only the 2.5L boxer.
Can I import a salvage Forester?
Yes. A salvage car can be imported legally, but it must pass a technical inspection before registration. Assess the damage via the VIN and photos.
What is the Forester fuel consumption?
The 2.5L boxer uses about 9–10 L/100 km in the city and 7–8 on the highway. The 2.0XT turbo is thirstier — 10–12 L in town.
Forester or Toyota RAV4 — which should I import?
The Forester has standard AWD on every version and better visibility; the RAV4 holds resale value better and has cheaper parts. For mountain roads, choose the Forester.
How many kilometres is acceptable on a used Forester?
With proper care a Forester lasts 250,000+ km. At auction, 100,000–150,000 km is a good balance between price and remaining life. On high mileage, check the CVT.
How long does it take to import a Forester from the USA?
The full process is usually 35–50 days: purchase, US inland transport, ocean freight, customs and registration.
Forester 2019 vs 2024 — what is the difference?
Both are the 5th generation (SK), so the base is the same. The 2024 is newer — updated equipment and a lower excise because it is under 6 years old. The 2019 is cheaper at auction but over 6 years old.
Which Forester model year is best to import in 2026?
The newer the better — ideally under 6 years (roughly 2020 and later) for a lower excise. Within your budget, pick the newest year; you save on customs.
What is the Wilderness trim?
The Wilderness (from 2022) is an off-road version with raised clearance, rugged tyres and revised gearing. Ideal for poor roads.