2025 Subaru Forester revealed: what we know so far

The Subaru Forester enters its sixth generation in 2025, promising a raft of new tech, safety, styling, and an updated hybrid system. We had a look at the new model during its unveiling in Melbourne last week and here’s what we know so far.

Centrepiece of the update is a new e-Boxer ‘strong’ hybrid system option, borrowing technology from development partner Toyota. The system pairs a 1.1kWh battery pack and electric motor able to output 88kW to a 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol boxer engine and a continuously variable transmission (CVT) driving all four wheels.

Differing to Toyota, Subaru’s system places the hybrid motor pre-transmission, meaning the new Forester retains proper all-wheel-drive propulsion, versus its Toyota RAV4 rival which only receives drive to the rear wheels from the electric motor at times of demand.

Subaru Australia has not disclosed performance figures for the new Forester; however, it is known the North American variant outputs 145kW. One thing the local arm has confirmed is that the new model will be capable of travelling 1000km on a single tank.

Sixth-Gen Forester Top Spec Hybrid

A total of seven variants will be available, with three in hybrid trim. Non-hybrid versions appear to use the same 2.5-litre engine and CVT transmission combo, just without the hybrid system fitted.

An 11.6-inch centre touchscreen joins standard equipment, with hybrid variants also scoring a 12.3-inch driver display. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as wireless phone charging, heated front seats, and a 360-degree camera now come fitted on all variants.

A new Emergency Driving Stop System joins Subaru’s Eyesight safety suite, able to bring the car to a gradual and complete stop if no driver inputs have been made for an extended period.

Pricing will be announced closer to a mid-2025 launch, however expect most of – if not all – the range to sneak in under the $60,000 mark.