2025 Subaru Forester Review Updated for Road and Trail

Editor: Hetal Bansal on Jul 04,2025

 

Subaru has come up with ambitious upgrades for the 2025 Forester. This classy compact SUV is rugged in nature and performance, but it still has a new face-lifted design, improved technologies, fuel economy, and off-road capabilities. In this 2025 Subaru Forester review, we are going to discuss all you want to understand about it, such as the interior impression, the fresh hybrid specifications, off-road, safety, and competitors, as well.

A Fresh New Look and Stronger Design

Subaru has made design changes to the Forester 2025 wisely. The SUV has been made to appear sharper, stronger, and refined. It has been made to take adventure, comfort, and all-day practicality.

Exterior Redesign for 2025

The 2025 Forester will have a more daring front grille, newer LED lights on its headlights, and a more muscular theme. Subaru worked on the aerodynamics of the car, which assists with the fuel consumption and road stability. The wheel styles are more modern, and the ground clearance is also among the most impressive in its segment, at least in the Wilderness version.

Rugged Appeal in Wilderness Trim

The Forester Wilderness off-road variant of 2025 goes another step forward. The tire on this trim is chunkier, it has more ground clearance (9.2 inches) and has protective skid plates, but there is a more advanced X-MODE control system to better handle off-road driving. It can be snow, it can be mud, or stone roads, but the Wilderness is created to meet the needs of people who are willing to have more than the city drive.

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Inside the Cabin A 2025 Forester Interior Review

The Forester has always been praised for its practicality and roomy cabin. Subaru has elevated the interior for 2025 with more tech, better materials, and improved comfort.

Cabin Comfort and Layout

In this 2025 Forester interior review, we can confidently say that Subaru has succeeded in making the cabin both functional and cozy. The dashboard now features a more refined layout with soft-touch materials. Seating is spacious and supportive, with available heated front and rear seats.

Infotainment and Connectivity

Subaru introduces an available 11.6-inch vertical touchscreen in the higher trims, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard in most models. USB-C ports, Wi-Fi hotspot capability, and an available Harman Kardon premium audio system add to the tech appeal.

Cargo Space and Practicality

Cargo space remains strong with up to 74.4 cubic feet of storage when the rear seats are folded down. Subaru continues to offer wide rear doors and a low lift-over height, making loading gear or groceries easy.

Powertrain Upgrades and Hybrid Introduction

Subaru fans have been waiting for improved efficiency, and now it's here. The 2025 Forester adds a new hybrid powertrain for drivers who want eco-friendliness without sacrificing performance.

2025 Subaru Forester Hybrid Specs

The new hybrid system pairs a 2.0-liter flat-four engine with two electric motors to produce a combined output of approximately 200 horsepower. It uses Subaru’s symmetrical all-wheel drive, meaning the hybrid doesn't compromise on capability.

Smooth and Capable Ride

The hybrid and gas versions both benefit from a revised suspension system that offers a more composed ride. Subaru has tuned the steering for better response, and the overall driving feel is more refined.

Off-Road Capability and Driving Modes

With X-MODE and hill descent control available, the Forester remains a leader in off-road adventure. The Wilderness model adds a dual-function X-MODE for snow/dirt and deep snow/mud.

Safety First Subaru Forester Safety Features 2025

Subaru continues its tradition of offering top-tier safety in all models. The 2025 Forester is no exception, with new and improved systems across the range.

EyeSight Driver Assist Update

The Subaru Forester safety features for 2025 include an updated version of the EyeSight system. This includes adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, pre-collision braking, and throttle management.

New Features in 2025

New for 2025 is a DriverFocus Distraction Mitigation System available in higher trims. It monitors driver behavior and offers gentle alerts if signs of distraction or fatigue are detected.

Crash Test and Safety Ratings

Subaru expects the Forester to continue earning high safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, as seen in previous years. Standard safety across all trims helps make the Forester a top choice for families and safety-conscious drivers.

Trim Levels and Pricing Overview

Subaru offers a variety of trims to fit different needs and budgets. Each one adds features while keeping the core strengths intact.

Available Trims

The 2025 Forester comes in the following trims:

  • Base
  • Premium
  • Sport
  • Limited
  • Touring
  • Wilderness (off-road focused)

The base model includes all-wheel drive, a suite of safety features, and essential tech. As you move up, features like leather seats, larger screens, panoramic moonroofs, and premium audio systems become available.

Price Range

Pricing starts around $28,000 for the base trim and can go up to $40,000+ for the fully loaded Touring or Wilderness trims. The hybrid version is expected to be priced slightly above the gasoline models but may qualify for EV incentives in some areas.

2025 Forester vs CR-V Comparison

One of the most common questions for SUV buyers is how the 2025 Forester vs CR-V comparison plays out. Both are popular, but they offer different strengths.

Performance and Fuel Efficiency

The CR-V offers both gas and hybrid options, just like the Forester. However, Subaru has an edge with standard all-wheel drive and better off-road capability. The CR-V is a bit more fuel-efficient in hybrid form but less rugged in design.

Interior and Features

The CR-V has a more upscale feel in top trims, while the Forester emphasizes practicality and visibility. Subaru’s larger windows and more upright design provide better sightlines, while Honda’s interior is a bit more luxurious and car-like.

Safety and Technology

Both offer excellent safety systems. Subaru includes its EyeSight system as standard across all trims, while Honda reserves some features for higher trims. Subaru also has the edge in off-road trims like the Wilderness, which Honda lacks entirely.

Is the 2025 Forester Worth It?

If you're looking for a reliable, safe, and capable SUV that’s ready for both urban commutes and weekend getaways, the 2025 Subaru Forester is hard to beat.

Best Features of the 2025 Forester

  • Standard all-wheel drive
  • New hybrid option with better fuel efficiency
  • Spacious and practical interior
  • Excellent off-road trim (Wilderness)
  • Advanced safety systems

Who Should Buy the 2025 Forester?

  • Families needing space and safety
  • Outdoor enthusiasts looking for off-road capability
  • Eco-conscious drivers wanting a hybrid SUV
  • Anyone who values reliability and all-weather performance

The 2025 Subaru Forester review proves that this compact SUV remains a top competitor in its class. With smart upgrades, a new hybrid engine, and rugged capability, it blends refinement and adventure.

Conclusion

Summing up the discussion here, the 2025 Subaru Forester is a comfortable, all-around compact SUV that mixes cargo capabilities with a modern touch. It has a redesigned exterior, a better interior, and an efficient new hybrid option, and the best safety features built in not only to be driven around but also to have weekend trips. The Forester is also reliable and provides performance whether on wilderness trails or city roads. In the 2025 Forester vs CR-V, all-wheel drive and off-road capabilities, in general, will provide Subaru with an advantage.


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