Forester gets new styling, same interior
Model is all-new but nearly the same as before
The Subaru Forester is all-new for 2025. With the sixth-generation model, we think you might actually be able to tell it is new, but if you want the more extreme Wilderness model you’re going to have to wait.
Subaru is debuting a new look for the 2025 Forester. Well, mostly. It has what is largely the same Subaru grille we’ve seen for years, but now there’s a very thick bar running through the top (instead of the middle). It looks a bit top-heavy, but it is distinctive. Subaru refers to the design as sleek and contemporary, we think it’s a bit awkward. It should be more aerodynamic, at least.
The cabin gets a refresh as well. Subaru has added more soft-touch materials and the greenhouse is taller, but the look is exactly the same as what you’d find in the Crosstrek or Outback and that includes the tall center screen. A stacked double 7.0-inch screen pair comes on the base model, just like the Outback.
Cargo space, at 74.4 cubic feet, is just a hair larger than the outgoing Fozzie. Based on that and the similar cabin dimensions, this 2025 Forester might not be as “all-new” or “fully redesigned” as Subaru claims.
Every 2025 Forester will come with a 2.5L boxer four making 180 hp and 178 lb-ft. IT will have a CVT and Subaru’s symmetrical AWD and it sounds exactly the same as last year’s. Active torque vectoring is now standard, and the Wilderness model’s Dual Mode X-Mode is now on more trims.
DriverFocus Distraction Mitigation, Subaru’s eyeball monitoring safety system that beeps at you if you’re on your phone, will be standard for 2025. It was previously offered only on top-spec trims. The EyeSight suite, including forward collision avoidance and adaptive cruise, is also standard.
Yes, the popular Wilderness trim, with its off-road mods including all-terrain tires, a stronger roof rack, and a revised transmission, is missing. It has made up a significant portion of Subaru Forester sales since the trim was first launched, so expect it back soon.
Subaru hasn’t announced pricing for the 2025 Forester, but expect it to climb slightly from the current $27k ($32k Canadian) starting price. The 2025 Subaru Forester should be in dealers in the spring of 2024.
2025 Subaru Forester | Photo: Charles Jolicoeur
