The 2025 Subaru Forester has arrived with some notable updates, bringing a breath of fresh air to this beloved compact SUV. The exterior design has been refreshed, giving it a more modern and sleek appearance. Along with the aesthetic changes, the chassis has received moderate updates, promising an improved driving experience.
As always, Subaru’s commitment to all-wheel drive remains unwavering, with this feature continuing to come standard across all trims. Under the hood, the powertrain remains largely the same as the outgoing model, maintaining its reliable performance. However, Subaru is spicing things up with the introduction of a hybrid variant set to join the lineup later in the year, appealing to eco-conscious drivers.
One of the most exciting mechanical updates is the inclusion of a new electric power-steering rack. Borrowing components from the sporty WRX performance sedan, this new steering system is expected to enhance the Forester’s handling and responsiveness. Additionally, a foot-activated hands-free power tailgate has been added to the options list, making loading and unloading cargo a breeze. Mark your calendars because the new Forester will be hitting dealerships in spring 2024.
Will the 2025 Subaru Forester Be Hybrid ?
Yes, the 2025 Subaru Forester will be available as a hybrid. According to Automotive News, Subaru has shared exciting plans with their US retailers, confirming the use of Toyota hybrid technology in the redesigned Forester. This collaboration marks a significant step forward for Subaru, leveraging Toyota’s expertise to enhance the Forester’s efficiency and appeal.
What This Means for Subaru Fans
For Subaru enthusiasts eagerly awaiting a hybrid option, this news is a game-changer. The integration of Toyota’s hybrid system promises to deliver improved fuel efficiency and a reduced carbon footprint, aligning with the growing demand for environmentally friendly vehicles. This hybrid variant is expected to attract a broader audience, offering a compelling choice for those who want to enjoy Subaru’s renowned all-wheel drive capability while being mindful of their environmental impact.
How much will the 2025 Subaru Forester cost ? Pricing and Which One to Buy
What are the trims for the 2025 Forester? The 2025 Subaru Forester offers a range of trims to suit different budgets and preferences, with prices starting at $31,090 and climbing to $41,390 for the fully-loaded Touring model.
- Forester: $31,090
- Premium: $33,390
- Sport: $35,890
- Limited: $37,390
- Touring: $41,390
Forester: $31,090
The base Forester trim provides excellent value with a suite of standard features. You get remote keyless entry, LED headlights, and the charming “welcome lighting” that casts a beam of light on the exterior front door handles at night.
Premium: $33,390
Stepping up to the Premium trim, you get added comforts and conveniences, enhancing the overall driving experience.
Sport: $35,890
Our top recommendation is the Sport trim. It’s the sweet spot in the lineup, offering a perfect blend of equipment, appearance, and price. The Sport trim stands out with its attractive bronze trim and exclusive wheels. Inside, you’ll enjoy heated front seats and an impressive 11.6-inch infotainment touchscreen, making every journey enjoyable.
Limited: $37,390
The Limited trim brings even more luxury to the table, with additional features that elevate the Forester’s comfort and convenience levels.
Touring: $41,390
For those who want it all, the Touring trim provides the ultimate Forester experience with a comprehensive list of premium features.
Interestingly, Subaru is keeping the 2024 Forester Wilderness in the lineup alongside the new 2025 models until an unspecified future date. This rugged trim remains unchanged in price at $36,265 and continues to offer its unique off-road capabilities.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The heart of the 2025 Subaru Forester is its 2.5-liter flat-four engine, coupled with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and Subaru’s iconic all-wheel drive system. This powertrain produces 180 horsepower and 178 pound-feet of torque, providing enough muscle for daily drives and weekend adventures.
Exciting Hybrid News
Subaru has teased a hybrid powertrain addition for next year, promising a blend of improved fuel efficiency and eco-friendliness. This anticipated upgrade is sure to attract those looking to reduce their carbon footprint without compromising on performance.
Comfort-Oriented Driving Dynamics
Despite featuring a dual-pinion electronic power steering rack similar to the one found in the sporty WRX sedan, the Forester is tuned more for comfort than for spirited driving. The steering feedback is subtle, and the suspension prioritizes a smooth, plush ride. When taking corners at higher speeds, you might notice a slight rear-end wiggle, which can feel a bit unsettling until it stabilizes. However, if you prefer a relaxed driving experience, the Forester excels in delivering a comfortable and composed ride.
0-60 MPH Performance
In performance testing, the Forester Sport reached 60 mph in 8.3 seconds. While the acceleration might seem modest, it feels sufficient for everyday driving, especially in urban settings. Under lighter throttle, the engine’s growl is less pronounced, making for a more pleasant drive around town.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
When it comes to fuel efficiency, the 2025 Subaru Forester stands out. The EPA rates it at 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway for most trims, though the Sport and Touring trims drop slightly to 25 mpg city and 32 mpg highway. In a real-world test at 75 mph, the Forester Sport managed to achieve 31 mpg, showcasing its efficiency on longer drives. For more comprehensive details, you can refer to the EPA’s website.
2025 Subaru Forester Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
A Cabin Designed for Comfort
The Forester’s interior is all about comfort and practicality. Starting from the mid-level trims, you’ll find a blend of premium materials, such as a leather-wrapped gear selector and heated and ventilated front seats. The cabin is designed to be spacious, especially in the back, where adults will find ample head, hip, and legroom.
Ample Cargo Space
The Forester doesn’t skimp on cargo space either. Even with the rear seats in use, there’s plenty of room for your belongings. The 60/40 split rear seats can be folded flat to expand the cargo area to an impressive 75 cubic feet, making it ideal for larger items. Subaru has also improved sound insulation in this model, ensuring a quieter ride. Additionally, the Forester comes standard with roof rails, and a hands-free powered tailgate is available to make loading and unloading more convenient.
Infotainment and Connectivity: State-of-the-Art Technology
The Forester is equipped with an advanced 11.6-inch infotainment touchscreen on all trims except the base model. This system supports wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, along with a wireless smartphone charging pad for added convenience. The base model is fitted with a dual 7.0-inch display, retaining functionality with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
The 2025 Subaru Forester places a strong emphasis on safety, equipping all models with Subaru’s EyeSight suite of camera-based driver-assistance technologies. This comprehensive system ensures a safer driving experience by integrating several key safety features:
- Standard automated emergency braking: Helps prevent collisions by automatically applying the brakes in emergency situations.
- Standard lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist: Alerts you if you unintentionally drift out of your lane and gently steers you back.
- Standard adaptive cruise control: Maintains a set distance from the vehicle ahead, adjusting speed as necessary to keep the flow of traffic.
When Can I Buy a 2025 Subaru Forester?
When will the 2025 Subaru Forester be available ? The eagerly anticipated 2025 Subaru Forester will be available for purchase at Subaru dealerships across the nation in spring 2024.
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
When it comes to warranty and maintenance, the Forester offers a standard package, which might not be as competitive as some of its rivals. While the basics are covered, there are no complimentary maintenance services included, meaning owners will need to budget for these routine visits.
Warranty Details
- Limited warranty: Covers three years or 36,000 miles
- Powertrain warranty: Covers five years or 60,000 miles
- No complimentary scheduled maintenance
