Pros
- Nice interior materials
- Improved fuel economy over standard Forester
- Easy to see out of
Cons
- Dated infotainment expected
- Late to the game
- Don’t expect entry-level prices
Although practical, the Subaru Forester isn’t the most exciting small SUV to drive. A new hybrid model could change this perception by delivering much-needed extra power. Also promising increased fuel efficiency, the 2025 Forester Hybrid should help Subaru better compete with the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Kia Sportage, and other compact SUVs that offer gas-electric powertrains.
What We Think
Tried and true. Even after its 2025 redesign, the Forester retains the same personality of the previous model. Functionality comes first, as the newly stylish SUV boasts excellent safety ratings, a spacious, airy cabin with great visibility, and a cavernous cargo bay. The Forester can confidently tackle mud, sand, and gravel, lending credibility to the automaker’s outdoor appeal. On pavement, the Forester provides a comfortable ride, although it can get bouncy over large-frequency bumps.
The 2025 Forester Hybrid should build upon the standard model’s competencies while bringing welcome improvements to power, fuel economy, and perhaps comfort. However, it will likely retain the same large but outdated infotainment screen. If the pricing is right, the hybrid model could elevate the Forester to a top pick in the crowded compact SUV segment currently led by the Nissan Rogue and Kia Sportage.
Performance and Fuel Economy
Packing electric motors and a 2.5-liter horizontally opposed four-cylinder engine, the Forester Hybrid could deliver more than 200 hp. Look for a physical connection to the rear axle instead of an e-AWD system. We expect the Forester Hybrid to improve upon the standard gas model’s lackluster 8.8-second run to 60 mph.
Of course, fuel economy should also improve over the gas model’s 26/33 mpg city/highway rating. If it wants to properly compete with the RAV4 Hybrid and CR-V Hybrid, Subaru should aim to achieve around 40 mpg in the city and 34-38 mpg on the highway.
Prices and On-Sale Date
The standard Forester is attractively priced, and we’re hoping the same will be true for the 2025 Forester Hybrid. We expect the new model will start around $35,000 when it goes on sale in 2025.
