The Subaru Forester has earned a loyal following for its all-wheel-drive reliability and versatile design, perfect for everything from daily errands to light off-roading. The 2025 sixth-generation model introduces a sharper exterior, advanced safety tech, and Subaru’s first U.S. hybrid powertrain, making it more efficient and engaging than ever.
Built on the Subaru Global Platform, it prioritizes safety and durability while appealing to families and adventurers. If you’re considering a compact SUV with standard AWD, this refresh delivers real improvements without straying from what made the Forester a staple.
Updated Exterior Design for Modern Appeal
The 2025 Forester gets a bolder front fascia with a larger hexagonal grille and slim LED headlights that create a protective shield-like look, enhancing its road presence. Muscular body lines and geometric accents add a sense of adventure, while the overall shape remains practical and boxy for easy cargo access.
Measuring about 183 inches long with 8.7 inches of ground clearance, it handles urban parking and rough paths confidently. New colors like Crystal White Pearl and Harbor Blue Pearl give it fresh vibrancy. Aerodynamic refinements reduce wind noise and improve efficiency, making highway drives quieter and more comfortable.
Proven Powertrains with New Hybrid Option
Subaru retains the familiar 2.5-liter flat-four Boxer engine in the gas model, producing 180 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque, paired with a Lineartronic CVT and Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive for smooth, predictable handling. It reaches 0-60 mph in about 8.5 seconds, with WRX-inspired steering for better feedback.
The standout is the new hybrid, Subaru’s first for the U.S. Forester, combining the 2.5-liter engine with two electric motors and a 1.1-kWh lithium-ion battery for 194 total horsepower. This self-charging setup boosts low-end torque and efficiency without needing a plug, maintaining full AWD capability. Dual-function X-MODE handles snow, dirt, or mud seamlessly.
| Powertrain | Horsepower | Torque (lb-ft) | 0-60 mph | Drive System |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gas (2.5L Boxer) | 180 | 178 | ~8.5 sec | Symmetrical AWD |
| Hybrid (2.5L + Electric Motors) | 194 (total) | 178 | ~8.0 sec | Symmetrical AWD |
Impressive Fuel Economy and Range
Efficiency sees a big leap in the 2025 Forester, especially with the hybrid. The gas model estimates 26 city/33 highway/29 combined mpg, suitable for everyday use. The hybrid shines at 35 city/34 highway/35 combined mpg, a 40% city improvement over the gas version, thanks to electric assist during starts and low speeds.
With a 16.6-gallon tank, the hybrid offers over 580 miles of range, ideal for long trips. Real-world tests confirm these figures hold up in mixed driving, helping offset fuel costs effectively.
| Model | City/Highway/Combined MPG | Tank Size | Est. Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gas | 26/33/29 | 16.6 gal | ~480 miles |
| Hybrid | 35/34/35 | 16.6 gal | 581+ miles |
User-Friendly Tech and Spacious Interior
The cabin feels more premium with supportive seats, soft-touch materials, and improved noise insulation for a quieter ride. Passenger space totals 111 cubic feet for five, with 28.9 cubic feet of cargo behind the seats, expanding to 69.1 when folded—plenty for gear or groceries.
Tech upgrades include an available 11.6-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, plus a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster for customizable displays. Standard Bluetooth and a four-speaker audio system keep things connected, while higher trims add a power tailgate, wireless charging, and JBL premium sound. Roof rails support adventures, and the layout prioritizes practicality.
| Interior/Tech Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Screens | Dual 7-inch (base); 11.6-inch touchscreen (higher trims) |
| Connectivity | Wireless CarPlay/Android Auto, Bluetooth, USB ports |
| Cargo Space | 28.9 cu ft behind seats; 69.1 cu ft max |
| Comfort | Supportive seats, noise insulation, optional power tailgate |
Enhanced Safety with EyeSight Upgrades
Subaru’s EyeSight Driver Assist Technology is standard, now with wider cameras for better detection of pedestrians and cyclists. It includes adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring, earning an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ rating.
Eight airbags and a reinforced chassis add protection, while features like reverse automatic braking and a 360-degree camera (available) enhance awareness. Proactive driving aids, such as intersection alerts, make it one of the safest compact SUVs.
| Safety Feature | Standard/Available |
|---|---|
| EyeSight | Adaptive cruise, AEB, lane keep (standard) |
| Monitoring | Blind-spot, rear cross-traffic (standard) |
| Additional | 360-camera, reverse braking (available) |
| Ratings | IIHS Top Safety Pick+ |
Trims, Pricing, and Availability
The 2025 Forester starts at $29,995 for the base model, offering great value with standard AWD and EyeSight. Premium ($32,000) adds alloy wheels and dual-zone climate; Sport ($34,000) includes unique styling; Limited ($36,000) brings leather; Touring ($38,000) has the large screen. Wilderness ($36,000) boosts off-road with 9.2-inch clearance. Hybrids begin at $36,595 for Sport Hybrid, up to $42,000 for Touring Hybrid.
Dealers have stock now, with hybrids arriving mid-year. Leasing and financing deals vary, but Subaru’s resale value keeps ownership costs low.
| Trim | Starting Price | Key Additions |
|---|---|---|
| Base | $29,995 | Standard AWD, EyeSight |
| Premium | ~$32,000 | Alloy wheels, climate control |
| Sport | ~$34,000 | Styling, StarTex seats |
| Wilderness | ~$36,000 | 9.2-in clearance, off-road tires |
| Hybrid (Sport) | $36,595 | Hybrid powertrain, 35 mpg |
Why the 2025 Subaru Forester Stands Out
This generation refines the Forester’s strengths—reliable AWD, spaciousness, and safety—while adding hybrid efficiency and modern tech. It’s not the quickest or flashiest, but for practical, all-weather driving, it excels. Families and outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the balance of capability and comfort.
FAQs About the 2025 Subaru Forester
What engines are available in the 2025 Subaru Forester?
The gas model uses a 2.5-liter Boxer engine with 180 hp and 178 lb-ft torque. The hybrid combines it with electric motors for 194 total hp.
What’s the fuel economy of the 2025 Subaru Forester Hybrid?
It achieves 35 city/34 highway/35 combined mpg, with over 580 miles of range on a full tank.
How much does the 2025 Subaru Forester cost?
Base models start at $29,995, while hybrids begin at $36,595; top trims reach around $42,000.
What safety features does the 2025 Forester include?
Standard EyeSight with adaptive cruise, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring; it holds an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ rating.
Is the 2025 Subaru Forester good for off-roading?
Yes, with standard Symmetrical AWD, 8.7 inches of ground clearance, and dual-function X-MODE; the Wilderness trim adds 9.2 inches for tougher trails.