Subaru Forester Review
2018-2023
The fifth-generation Subaru Forester (SK Series) is one of Kenya's most dominant crossovers. Built on the Subaru Global Platform (SGP) with 220 mm ground clearance, Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, dual-function X-Mode terrain selector, and EyeSight v4 safety suite, it handles everything from Nairobi traffic to rough upcountry murram tracks with ease.
*This score is awarded by our team of expert reviewers after extensive testing of the car
What’s good
- Class-leading 220 mm ground clearance: Conquers deep potholes, tall speed bumps, and rough upcountry tracks.
- Symmetrical AWD with Dual X-Mode: Exceptional mud, snow, and deep gravel traction.
- Sub-2,500 cc KRA tax advantage: All 1.8T, 2.0L, and 2.5L engines qualify for 25% excise tax rate.
What’s not so good
- Lineartronic CVT response: CVT engine revs during heavy highway mountain passes.
- EyeSight windshield camera care: Requires specialized recalibration if windscreen is replaced.
Most popular: Forester Touring / Sport / Premium / e-Boxer Advance
5 doorsPetrol, HybridAutomatic, CVT
At a glance
- Model
- Subaru Forester (SK Series)
- Production years
- 2018–2023
- Body type
- SUV / Crossovers
- Seating capacity
- 5
- Fuel types
- Petrol, e-Boxer Hybrid
- Engine sizes
- 1,795 cc (1.8T CB18) / 1,995 cc (2.0L e-Boxer) / 2,498 cc (2.5L FB25)
- Transmission
- Automatic (Lineartronic CVT)
- Drivetrain
- Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (SAWD)
- Ground clearance
- 220 mm
- Source market
- Japan / UK (RHD)
Fuel consumption
Manufacturer / import-market figures: 14.2 km/L (2.5L) / 15.2 km/L (1.8T) / 17.0 km/L (e-Boxer). Tank: 63 L (about 895 km combined). Real-world use varies with load, traffic and altitude.
Running cost
- City driving
- KES 1,923 / 100 km
- Highway driving
- KES 1,351 / 100 km
- 1,000 km a month
- KES 15,983
- Full tank (63 L)
- KES 14,298
Based on petrol at KES 226.96/L, 15-10-2026 to 14-11-2026. Combined economy unless stated.
Work out a trip cost →Trims & variants
Premium / Touring / Sport / Advance e-Boxer / X-Break
- Setup
2.5L direct-injection boxer (182 hp / 239 Nm) or 1.8T (177 hp / 300 Nm), Lineartronic CVT, SAWD with X-Mode, 14.2–17.0 km/L.
- Why it gets shipped
The undisputed crossover leader in Kenya (KSh 3.2M – 5.2M) combining AWD capability, comfort, and safety.
Package tiers
Package options for JDM and UK imports.
| Package | Level | Key features |
|---|---|---|
| Premium / X-Break | Rugged executive | Water-repellent seats, dual X-Mode, orange exterior accents, EyeSight v4, and 17-inch alloys. |
| Touring / Sport | Flagship luxury | Leather seats, Harman Kardon audio, power tailgate, 18-inch dark alloys, and facial recognition driver monitoring. |
About the Subaru Forester
Kenya enforces an 8-year age restriction from manufacture month and right-hand drive compliance. In 2026, 2019 to 2023 SK Forester models sit inside the direct import window.\n\nWith 1,995 cc (2.0L e-Boxer), 2,498 cc (2.5L FB25), and 1,795 cc (1.8L CB18 Turbo) engines, all variants sit strictly at or under 2,500 cc to qualify for KRA's standard 25% excise duty tax bracket.
Disclaimer
Tax figures are estimates based on October 2026 KRA schedules. Always verify specific chassis CRSP entries with your clearing agent prior to purchase.
