First Forester Hybrid
The Forester is one of the most popular models in the Subaru lineup, and last year, the versatile crossover received a complete redesign as it moved into its 6th generation. Now, the Japanese car company is adding a new variant to the lineup – the 2025 Forester Hybrid, which debuted at this year’s Chicago Auto Show. This is the first time Subaru has offered a hybrid version of the Forester in America, and the new powertrain promises improved fuel efficiency as well as upgraded performance. The Forester Hybrid will be joined by the recently announced Crosstrek Hybrid (coming this fall), and we expect there will be more hybrids to come.

New Hybrid System
Under the hood of the Forester Hybrid is a new series-parallel hybrid system anchored by a newly developed Atkinson/Miller-cycle 2.5-liter boxer (horizontally-opposed) 4-cylinder engine. Integrated into the continuously variable transmission (CVT) are two electric motors – one acts as a generator while the other provides added power to the wheels. With this setup, Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive continues to mechanically couple the front and rear wheels, providing the same impressive traction as the non-hybrid variants.

Performance
The new Forester Hybrid delivers a combined 194 horsepower – a healthy bump from the non-hybrid’s 180 horses. Electric power is provided by the 1.1 kWh sealed lithium-ion battery. While the EPA has not yet released fuel economy data, expect an improvement of about 40% in city fuel economy, which would be around 36 mpg.

AWD Capability
Both the hybrid and non-hybrid Foresters benefit from an enhanced version of the Subaru Global Platform. The chassis is 10 percent stiffer thanks to additional structural adhesive and stronger welds, and this translates to an improved ride with better drivability and the suspension tuning has been revised for the hybrid. The 2025 Forester features 8.7 inches of ground clearance and is available with X-MODE, which can be engaged at slower speeds to increase the SUV’s capabilities when dealing with slick roads or off-pavement excursions.

Styling Updates
Subaru gave the Forester a significant design update for the 2025 model year, and the new Hybrid adopts these new styling cues. This includes the bold new grille, flush headlights, and slim LED running lights that give the Forester a unique look. Air outlets behind the front wheels improve aerodynamics, and prominent wheel arches add to the new look. Aside from its hybrid badging and its exclusive Daybreak Blue color, the Forester Hybrid doesn’t distinguish itself from the non-hybrid variants.

Inner Space
The Forester Hybrid features the new 11.6-inch vertical touchscreen display – the largest ever offered in the Forester – as well as a 12.3-inch digital driver’s display. Most functions are accessed via the screen, including climate control and audio, so almost all physical buttons and knobs have been eliminated. Volume and tuning knobs are still present, as well as buttons for changing the cabin temperature. Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are standard with a wireless connection.

Seating
Front seats have been redesigned for the 2025 model year to offer improved support, which adds comfort while reducing fatigue. Customers can choose cloth or StarTex upholstery, both of which are made from animal-free materials. The top-level Touring will still be offered with genuine leather trim.

Cargo Space
With a wide cargo opening and low lift-over height, loading gear into the Forester is easy. With slightly more room than the outgoing model, the Forester provides 29.6 cubic feet of space behind the second row, which expands to almost 75 cubic feet when the rear seats are folded flat. The rear hatch can also be opened hands-free by sweeping a foot below the rear bumper – a first for Subaru. While the Forester Hybrid adds a battery pack below the floor, the cargo space remains unchanged from the non-hybrid variants.

EyeSight
Subaru’s EyeSight advanced driver assist system has been updated on the 2025 Forester to provide a wider field of view with quicker response. EyeSight is standard on all Forester Hybrids, featuring adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking with pedestrian and bicycle detection, reverse automatic braking, and rear cross-traffic alert. Also standard is Emergency Stop Assist, which will slow the vehicle to a stop, unlock the car, and put on the hazard lights if the driver becomes unresponsive while using adaptive cruise control.

Coming Soon
The 2025 Subaru Forester Hybrid will arrive in showrooms this spring, available in Premium, Sport, Limited, and Touring trim levels. Prices start at $36,415 (including the $1,420 destination charge) for the Premium, ranging up to around $43,000 for the top-level Touring.