Subaru Forester: The 2025 Redesign Elevates a Capable Compact SUV
The Subaru Forester has long been a favorite for buyers seeking a practical, all-weather compact SUV with excellent visibility, spaciousness, and standard all-wheel drive. The sixth-generation 2025 Forester brings a full redesign that refines this formula: evolutionary styling, a quieter and more refined cabin, updated technology, and enhanced safety features—all while maintaining the core traits that make it a capable daily driver and light adventurer. A new hybrid powertrain joins the lineup mid-year, boosting efficiency and power without compromising capability.
Competing against the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, and Hyundai Tucson, the Forester stands out with its standard Symmetrical AWD, generous ground clearance, and Subaru’s reputation for longevity.
Key Changes in the 2025 Redesign
Subaru didn’t reinvent the wheel—instead focusing on meaningful improvements:
- Stiffer chassis (10% more torsional rigidity) for better handling, ride quality, and reduced noise.
- Quieter cabin with added insulation and structural enhancements.
- Updated styling with a bolder grille, slimmer headlights, and aerodynamic tweaks.
- Modern interior featuring a large vertical touchscreen on most trims.
- Enhanced EyeSight safety suite with wider camera view, faster response, and new features like emergency steering assist.
- New hybrid option arriving spring 2025 for better efficiency and torque.
The Wilderness trim carries over from 2024 (based on the previous generation) with no major updates for 2025.
Exterior Design: Evolutionary and Rugged
The 2025 Forester retains its boxy, upright silhouette for excellent visibility and interior space, but gains sharper lines, a wider grille, and more pronounced fender flares. Ground clearance remains 8.7 inches (higher on Wilderness), aiding light off-road use. LED headlights and available 19-inch wheels add a premium touch.
Interior and Tech: More Refined and Connected
The cabin is noticeably quieter and more upscale, with slimmer front seats for better rear access and visibility. Cargo space is generous at up to 74.4 cubic feet (seats folded). Most trims feature an 11.6-inch vertical touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto; base models use dual 7-inch screens. Higher trims add premium audio, navigation, and a digital gauge cluster.
Performance and Powertrains
- Standard gas: 2.5L boxer-four (180 hp, 178 lb-ft), CVT, standard AWD. EPA: 26-29 mpg combined.
- New hybrid (Premium and above): 2.5L + electric motors (194 hp total), up to 35 mpg combined and stronger low-end torque.
- Dual-function X-MODE for snow/mud on higher trims.
Ride is comfortable and composed, with improved steering feel, though acceleration remains relaxed rather than sporty. Towing: 1,500 lbs (3,000 lbs on Wilderness).
Safety: Class-Leading Standard Features
Every Forester includes updated EyeSight with adaptive cruise, lane centering, automatic emergency braking (now better at detecting pedestrians/cyclists), and more. Higher trims add blind-spot monitoring, 360-degree cameras, and DriverFocus distraction mitigation. Strong expected crash ratings.
Pricing and Trims (Approx. MSRP incl. destination)
| Trim | Powertrain Options | Starting Price | Key Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Base | Gas | $31,000+ | Dual screens, basic EyeSight |
| Premium | Gas / Hybrid | $34,000+ | 11.6″ touchscreen, moonroof |
| Sport | Gas / Hybrid | $36,000+ | Sporty styling, water-repellent seats |
| Limited | Gas / Hybrid | $38,000+ | Leather, power liftgate |
| Touring | Gas / Hybrid | $41,000+ | Navigation, Harman Kardon audio, ventilated seats |
| Wilderness | Gas (2024 carryover) | $36,000+ | Off-road upgrades, higher clearance |
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Standard AWD and excellent all-weather traction.
- Spacious, versatile interior with great visibility.
- Quieter, more refined ride than before.
- Strong safety tech; new hybrid efficiency.
- Proven Subaru reliability.
Cons:
- Acceleration is adequate, not exciting.
- Infotainment can have quirks.
- No major power boost in gas models.
- Higher trims approach premium pricing.
Final Thoughts
The 2025 Subaru Forester’s redesign delivers exactly what loyal owners want: meaningful refinements to comfort, quietness, and tech without drastic changes. The addition of a hybrid powertrain makes it more efficient and responsive, broadening its appeal. If you prioritize capability in all conditions, practicality, and long-term ownership, the Forester remains a top compact SUV choice—now better than ever. 🌲🚙
