The heart may want the brand to be about the rally-inspired WRX, but in reality, this new Forester Hybrid may be most deserving of the limelight.
Stats: The 2025 Subaru Forester Hybrid is more powerful (194 HP), returns greater fuel efficiency (35 MPG combined), and has more range (581 miles on a tank) than the gas-only model. Best of all, Subaru smartly integrates the system’s 1.1-kWh Li-ion battery and two motors without any compromise to the all-wheel drive capability (all Foresters gain an improved system for 2025), ground clearance (8.7 inches), or towing capacity (1,500 lbs) of the traditionally-powered model. Even the cargo space is unchanged.
The primary motor provides up to 199 lb-ft of torque to help motivate this spacious five-passenger crossover, and the second motor serves to charge the battery and relieve the engine of its normal auxiliary power duties.
Result: The hybrid system brings a much-needed layer of refinement to the standard boxer-CVT powertrain. Around town, the Forester Hybrid seamlessly shuffles the Forester up to speed as its CVT finally gets to be an asset instead of an annoyance. Braking is equally refined and easy to modulate despite the added complexity of the regenerative braking system.
Power distribution is communicated to the driver via a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster that features an efficient layout with excellent graphics that can mimic physical dials.
The new Forester Hybrid starts around $38,000 and is offered in the Sport, Limited, and Touring trims. We can expect to see it showing up on dealer lots this summer.
