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2015 Subaru Forester: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The most important 2015 Forester change is that a rearview camera is standard on every trim. This is otherwise a light equipment update, not a redesign, with an upgraded base-model display and several Touring trim improvements.
About the 2015 Subaru Forester
4th generation (SJ, 2014-2018), second model year before the 2017 refresh
Subaru positions the Forester as a compact SUV for people who want daily-driver efficiency, family-friendly space, and real bad-weather confidence without moving up to a larger SUV. Its core appeal is standard all-wheel drive, generous cargo room, easy outward visibility, and useful ground clearance. In 2015, it stands out by pairing that practical shape with strong safety messaging and, for shoppers who want more pace, a genuinely quick turbo version.
The 2015 Forester lineup runs from the straightforward 2.5i with standard all-wheel drive to Touring trims with leather seating, premium audio, and a power rear gate. The 2.0XT models are the performance-focused choices, pairing a 250-hp turbo engine with a sport-tuned suspension, while the 2.5i Premium emphasizes everyday comfort with a panoramic moonroof and power driver's seat.
What changed, by category
Safety
A rearview camera becomes standard across the lineup after being added to the base 2.5i.
Tech
The enhanced color multifunction display becomes standard on the base 2.5i and therefore across the full range. Both Touring trims gain standard keyless access and push-button start, while their navigation system and touchscreen change from standard to optional. The 2.0XT Premium also gains a standard All-Weather Package.
Styling
Both Touring trims gain standard HID headlights and chrome lower-door accents. The 2.5i Touring also moves to 18-inch wheels.
2015 Subaru Forester specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, PZEV, 2.5 Liter | 4-Cyl, PZEV, 2.5 Liter | 4-Cyl, PZEV, 2.5 Liter | 4-Cyl, PZEV, 2.5 Liter | 4-Cyl, Turbo, 2.0 Liter | 4-Cyl, Turbo, 2.0 Liter |
| Transmission | Auto, CVT Lineartronic | Auto, CVT Lineartronic | Auto, CVT Lineartronic | Auto, CVT Lineartronic | Auto, CVT Lnrtrnc Manual | Auto, CVT Lnrtrnc Manual |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD | AWD | AWD | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 24 mpg | 24 mpg | 24 mpg | 24 mpg | 23 mpg | 23 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 32 mpg | 32 mpg | 32 mpg | 32 mpg | 28 mpg | 28 mpg |
| Horsepower | 170 hp | 170 hp | 170 hp | 170 hp | 250 hp | 250 hp |
| Torque | 174 lb-ft | 174 lb-ft | 174 lb-ft | 174 lb-ft | 258 lb-ft | 258 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 1500 lb | 1500 lb | 1500 lb | 1500 lb | 1500 lb | 1500 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 74.7 cu-ft | 68.5 cu-ft | 68.5 cu-ft | 68.5 cu-ft | 68.5 cu-ft | 68.5 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 38 in | 38 in | 38 in | 38 in | 38 in | 38 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | ||||||
| Alarm System | ||||||
| Automatic Emergency Braking | ||||||
| Automatic Leveling Headlights | ||||||
| Blindspot Sensors | ||||||
| Hill Descent Control | ||||||
| Hill Start Assist | ||||||
| Lane Departure Warning | ||||||
| Active Lane Keep Assistance | ||||||
| Rear View Camera | ||||||
| Alloy Wheels | ||||||
| Fog Lights | ||||||
| HID Headlights | ||||||
| Heated Mirrors | ||||||
| Panorama Moon Roof | ||||||
| Power Close Liftgate/Trunk | ||||||
| Privacy Glass | ||||||
| Rear Spoiler | ||||||
| Roof Rails | ||||||
| Bluetooth | ||||||
| Navigation System | ||||||
| Premium Audio | ||||||
| SD Card Slot | ||||||
| Satellite Radio | ||||||
| Smartphone Interface | ||||||
| USB Ports | ||||||
| Automatic Air Conditioning | ||||||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | ||||||
| Heated Front Seats | ||||||
| Leather Seats | ||||||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | ||||||
| Power Driver Seat | ||||||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | ||||||
| Push-Button Engine Start | ||||||
| Remote Start | ||||||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2015 Subaru Forester?
The biggest change is a standard rearview camera on every 2015 Forester. The base 2.5i gains the camera, extending this feature across the lineup.
Was the 2015 Subaru Forester redesigned?
No, the 2015 Forester was not redesigned. It is the second model year of the fourth-generation Forester and receives a modest equipment update rather than major mechanical or structural changes.
Did the 2015 Subaru Forester get a new engine?
No, the 2015 Forester's engines carry over. The regular 2.5i models use a 170-hp 2.5-liter engine, while the 2.0XT models retain their 250-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter engine.
What changed on the 2015 Subaru Forester Touring trims?
The 2015 Touring trims gain standard HID headlights, keyless access, push-button start, and chrome lower-door accents. The 2.5i Touring also gains 18-inch wheels, while navigation and the touchscreen change from standard to optional on both Touring trims.
How different is the 2015 Subaru Forester from the 2014 model?
The 2015 Forester is only modestly different from the 2014 model. Its main advantage is the lineup-wide rearview camera, along with the base trim's upgraded display and added equipment on Premium and Touring versions; the engines and basic structure remain unchanged.
2015 Subaru Forester Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2015 Subaru Forester.
4.3
2015 Subaru Forester
(476 reviews)
“Love my new 2015 Forester! Only two things missing: air/heater vents for the second row and a hook on the overhead handle in the second row to hang dry cleaning and the like.”
“My Subaru Forester is a great car. My only feedback is the Reverse light is dim. I would like brighter reverse lights.”