The SUBARU FORESTER (2002-08) 5DR ESTATE 2.0 XT AUTO4 is a compact estate with the raised stance and go-anywhere appeal of a family SUV. In the UK used-car market, it offers a practical alternative to conventional estates, pairing an automatic gearbox with a punchy turbocharged petrol engine and Subaru’s all-wheel drive. Mycarcheck.com has recorded 276 look-ups covering 141 different VINs, giving a snapshot of examples. The average private-sale valuation is £1,400, while average recorded mileage is 136,000 miles and typical annual use is about 7,000 miles. Cars checked had nearly four previous keepers on average, so condition and maintenance history deserve close attention. That makes the Forester suited to drivers wanting family-friendly space and a capable companion on winter and rural roads, plus an automatic, rather than low running costs. Against rivals such as the Honda CR-V, its turbo power and standard four-wheel drive give it a distinctive, eager character.