Used Subaru Forester 4x4 2002 - 2008 review

Although many used Foresters are still within the Subaru network, prices are not too high. If you're looking at it as an alternative to a Land Rover Freelander or Toyota RAV4, the Forester is generally the cheaper option.

There's no worry about fuel economy, either, with the original 2.0-litre engine returning better mpg than the equivalent RAV4 or Freelander. And, although the more powerful 2.0-litre unit is more thirsty, it's only by a little.

Of the two high-performance engines, the turbocharged 2.0-litre is the better bet, as it returns almost 29mpg. However, even the 2.5's 26mpg is respectable for such a fast car.

Routine servicing costs are a little higher than a RAV4's, but insurance costs are fair as long as you steer clear of the quick versions. However, unscheduled work is dear: Warranty Direct says that average repair bills on Subarus are among the most expensive of any make's.