The 2025 Subaru Forester made its public debut at the 2023 Los Angeles Auto Show, and it has undergone a significant redesign. The new model features revised styling, updated technology, and the promise of a first-ever hybrid model. This marks the introduction of the sixth generation of the Forester, and it is set to bring a range of enhancements compared to its predecessor.
One of the most noticeable changes to the 2025 Forester is its new exterior styling. The design incorporates a prominent grille that seamlessly blends into the headlights, as well as more pronounced wheel arches. Despite the changes, the exterior dimensions remain largely unchanged. The new model is slightly longer than its predecessor, but it retains the same wheelbase, width, and height.
Beneath the fresh exterior design, the 2025 Forester is based on the Subaru Global Platform, providing a strong and rigid foundation for the vehicle. Subaru claims that the new model boasts 10% greater torsional rigidity, achieved through a full inner frame with stronger welding and additional structural adhesive.
Moving to the interior, the 2025 Forester offers improved practicality and comfort. The vehicle can hold slightly more cargo than the previous model, with 29.6 cubic feet of space with the rear seats up and 74.4 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. Additionally, a hands-free tailgate feature is available for the first time, making it easier to access the cargo area. The front seats have been slimmed down to improve visibility and ease of access to the second row. Subaru has also enhanced sound dampening and modified the climate control system to focus only on occupied seats, enhancing comfort and efficiency.
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The infotainment system has also been updated, with base models now equipped with a pair of 7.0-inch touchscreens. The top screen handles Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connectivity and other infotainment functions, while the bottom screen is dedicated to climate controls and vehicle settings. Higher trim levels feature an 11.6-inch touchscreen, similar to what is available in other Subaru models, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
In terms of safety and technology, the 2025 Forester is equipped with the standard EyeSight driver-assist system, featuring updated software, cameras with a wider field of view, and an electronic brake booster for smoother and quicker operation. A new Emergency Stop Assist feature can detect if the driver becomes unresponsive while using adaptive cruise control and can take appropriate action to bring the vehicle to a safe stop.
Under the hood, the Forester retains a 2.5-liter boxer-4 engine connected to a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and standard all-wheel drive. The power output has been slightly reduced to 180 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque. Additionally, Subaru has confirmed the launch of a Forester Hybrid model about a year after the other models, hinting at the possibility of a plug-in hybrid variant.
The 2025 Forester will be offered in base, Premium, Sport, Limited, and Touring trim levels when it arrives at U.S. dealerships next spring. Pricing details are expected to be revealed closer to the launch date. Overall, the redesigned 2025 Subaru Forester is set to offer a compelling blend of style, technology, and efficiency, with the promise of a hybrid model adding an exciting option for environmentally-conscious consumers.
