LOOKS

For 2025, the Forester gets minor exterior updates, but nothing extreme, and the changes apply to both hybrid and non-hybrid versions.

The updated Forester maintains a more boxy shape than many rival SUVs, and keeps a more rugged look vs. the more curvy competitors.

The grille features a standout design compared to segment rivals, curved LED headlights are featured, and sharp side lines are included. Wheel sizes range from 17 inches to 19 inches, and a large panoramic power moonroof is featured.

Moving inside, you’ll see some of the best elements of the Forester hybrid, namely its spaciousness that makes it feel more like a midsize SUV despite its compact labeling.

A roomy design is offered for both front passengers, as well as the three spots in the second row. And its leather-trimmed seating is quite comfortable, moreso than many vehicles in this segment.

Cargo space clocks in at 28 cubic feet behind the 2nd row, and 69 cubic feet with the 2nd row folded down. This is less than some rivals, but still decent numbers.

Entering and exiting the Forester hybrid is an easy process, and drivers get a clear view of the road ahead due to the boxy design. Materials are not luxury level, but they’re more than adequate for this price point. Heated and ventilated seats are offered in front row, along with heated rear seats. One upscale touch is a leather-wrapped steering wheel. 

Overall, it’s one of the best interiors you’ll find in this class of vehicle.

HOW’S THE RIDE?

The 2025 Subaru Forester hybrid engine pairs a 2.5-liter, four-cylinder Subaru Boxer engine with two electric motors and a lithium-ion battery. This is paired with a CVT automatic transmission, and output is a total of 194 horsepower and 199 pound-feet of torque. By comparison, the nonhybrid Forester has 180 horsepower, so you get a slight power boost in the hybrid.

All-wheel drive comes standard on the Forester hybrid, an advantage over some rivals. Other driving features include regenerative braking, incline start assist, and trailer stability assist.

The Forester has an ample 8.7 inches of ground clearance, which is helpful for drivers who like to do some basic off-road excursions, or live in areas with regular snow or inclement weather.

In terms of driving experience, it’s important to be realistic with expectations, as hybrid SUVs aren’t going to be speed demons as a general rule. You’ll need just over 8 seconds to get from 0 to 60 mph, which is nearly a second slower than some rivals.

But looking at the bigger picture, the overall driving experience in the Forester hybrid is solid, and an improvement on past Forester models. While not necessarily exciting, the ride is smooth, much quieter than the non-hybrid version of the Forester, handles well on curvy roads and responds quickly to driver input. If you’re looking for flash, look elsewhere, but there’s a lot to like here if you’re looking for substance.

Driving modes are featured as well, with “X Mode” options including Snow/Dirt and Deep Snow/Mud.

Towing maxes out at 1,500 pounds on the Forester hybrid, which is less than some rivals.


TECHNOLOGY, SAFETY

The technology/infotainment setup in the Subaru Forester hybrid is centered around a vertical, 11.6-inch touchscreen that houses all major functions. Beyond the touch controls, there are some physical buttons on the side of the touchscreen for climate, plus knobs for volume and changing channel.

It’s not the fanciest looking system, but is easy to master by both voice and touch controls. There are also helpful steering wheel controls.

Soundwise, an excellent Harman Kardon sound system is available for music lovers. And you can connect your phone via Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.

There’s also a wireless phone charging pad, Bluetooth connection, satellite radio, and more, including:
— Two 12-volt power outlets
— Multiple USB ports
— Dual-zone automatic climate control  
— Available Wi-Fi hotspot
— Smart rearview mirror

In terms of safety tech, Subaru has long been a major proponent of safety advances, and is consistently earning near-perfect safety ratings.

Much of the safety success comes via the “Eyesight” suite of tech features that enhance driver and passenger safety. This suite of helpful offerings includes:
— Frontal collision prevention system, which alerts driver of pending collisions and helps apply brakes when needed
— Lane centering system to keep the Forester steered in the proper direction and away from other traffic
— Adaptive cruise control to keep your Forester hybrid a set distance away from the vehicle ahead
— Adaptive headlights that deliver improved illumination in curves

There is also a driver attention alert which warns the driver if it senses you are drowsy or not paying attention, and a Tire Pressure Monitoring System. Another helpful feature was the 360-degree Surround View Monitor, and the backup camera was clear and helpful.

I found these systems to be helpful as I drove the Forester hybrid, but some were overly sensitive. For example, even when I was paying attention, the driver attention alert would come on occasionally.

One other safety note of interest, the safety belt alarm will go off in the Forester not only for front passengers who are unbelted, but also for anyone in the rear seats who hasn’t buckled up — which isn’t the case on all vehicles.


MPG

Fuel economy is naturally where the Forester hybrid will shine. Its official numbers are 35 city/34 highway/35 combined, which is well above the numbers of the non-hybrid.

In real-world terms, the 16.6-gallon fuel tank will take you a distance of roughly 580 miles per fill-up, ensuring you won’t see the gas station much with this vehicle.

While the numbers are slightly below some rival hybrid offerings, the difference isn’t enough to sway most buyers, especially those who are fans of the Subaru aesthetic, performance and capability.

In my real-world testing, I found the numbers listed were accurate, and there’s even the possibility of exceeding the official numbers depending how you drive the Forester.
 

PRICE

The 2025 Subaru Forester hybrid that I tested was priced just over $44K, while the base price starts around $37K. For comparison, the non-hybrid version of the Forest starts just over $30K, so within four to five years you should make up the deficit with gas savings.

Trim levels on the Forester hybrid include: Premium, Sport, Limited, and Touring.

Compared to rival hybrid SUV offerings from Kia, Toyota, Honda and others, the price range is a bit higher on the Forester hybrid. But it’s arguable that this price increase is merited due to the standard AWD it offers, as well as off-road prowess in comparison to rivals.

Warranty coverage is decent, especially for the hybrid system.
Coverage includes:
— Limited warranty for three years or 36,000 miles
— Powertrain warranty for five years or 60,000 miles
— Hybrid system warranty covers eight years or 100,000 miles

There is, however, no scheduled maintenance covered by Subaru on the Forester.


BOTTOM LINE

The 2025 Subaru Forester Hybrid is a strong addition to the Subaru lineup and will be popular among buyers who love the Subaru brand and its capabilities, but want a ride with better fuel economy.

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AutoTechReviews.com can be found on Twitter @AutoTechReview, or stay updated at the AutoTechReviews Facebook page. Follow AutoTechReviews on Instagram at @Autotechreviews or on TikTok at @AutoTechReviews.. Matt Myftiu can be found on Twitter @MattMyftiu.