The SUBARU FORESTER (1997-02) 5DR ESTATE 4WD 2.0 GLS AUTO4 is an early compact SUV, combining estate-car practicality with raised ride height and four-wheel drive. In the UK it sits between a family estate and a small off-roader, offering a useful alternative to contemporary Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4 models. Its roomy five-door layout and capable all-weather grip suit families, dog owners and drivers who travel on rural roads or want extra confidence in poor conditions. The automatic gearbox makes everyday driving straightforward, while Subaru’s distinctive, practical approach gives this Forester a more adventurous feel than a conventional estate. It is best viewed as an older, characterful used car rather than a modern economy choice. Mycarcheck recorded five checks across five VINs, so the sample is limited. Those cars averaged 134,000 miles, 4,000 miles yearly and 3.6 previous keepers; the average private-sale valuation was £500 within this small recorded sample.