Deal Check: 2021 Subaru Forester

Two things to look into:

  1. Check to see if VIP pricing would work in your favor. Basically, its a no-haggle price 2-4% below invoice on each Subaru model. Sometimes, a generous dealer will discount you to this level without VIP, but that seems to be rare. To become VIP you donate to Subaru’s favored charities (ASPCA is one example). Its a not insignificant donation for immediate access to VIP (there are some charities that offer lower donations but require a long wait before access to VIP) but its deductible, and also you will most likely save much more than the donation on the cost of the vehicle

  2. Some folks on the various Subaru forums have had luck with loyalty coupons if you contact Subaru of America. Generally, you need to have a Subaru prior to the one you are trying to lease/buy. Coupons ranges from $250-500 and rumors of higher. This is applied AFTER you negotiate your lease–its considered cash down by the dealer.

I was able to lease a 2020 Ascent Premium with tow hitch and other accessories for $415/mo with $415 out the door (first payment), including all taxes and fees. This was pre-covid, so things are likely changed now. My MSRP was in the $40s, IIRC. Subarus arent known for ‘leasing well’-- but these two items are key to making a lease on a subaru work, IMO, outside of leveraging a broker who may have relationships to do better.