Subaru Forester 2025 introduced with new design and technologies with the same old engine – Cars, the first Arab automotive website
Cars – Subaru unveiled the Forester in its sixth generation as a 2025 model, continuing the legacy of Subaru’s best-selling vehicle for the past 30 years.
Like the 2024 model, the 2025 Subaru Forester comes with a 2.5-liter boxer engine mated to all-wheel drive. However, it comes with a slew of updates that Subaru believes have changed the Forester enough to call it an all-new model. On the outside, there is a new design with aerodynamic improvements. Inside, there is a new interior design, and the structure has been greatly strengthened. The result, Subaru claims, is a sleeker, better-driving and more comfortable Forester that uses the latest EyeSight driver-assist technology as standard across all grades.
Subaru Forester exterior design
Much has changed, but the new Forester is instantly recognizable by its proportions. The new grille merges with the headlights to form the impression of a single design piece, which Subaru describes as a “shield.” New wheel arches add more pizzazz to the car, while a more upright rear window improves luggage space. Front, side and rear underbody guards are standard on all models.
There are new air vents at the rear to help air escape and reduce lift at the front of the car at higher speeds.
Practical interior improvements
According to Subaru, the new front seats are more supportive and help reduce fatigue during longer drives. While the shoulder areas have been reduced to aid over-the-shoulder visibility. The HVAC system has also been updated for comfort, which focuses on occupied seats rather than the entire cabin. It is supposed to help with fuel economy because it is a more efficient approach. Subaru also realizes that most Forester owners will use their vehicle a lot, so interior elements are designed to not show wear or damage. The headliner is also dark, so scratches will not show if scratched by loading cargo.
The tailgate height is larger for 2025, so it’s easier to load in the back. And with the back seat split 60/40 down, there’s good usable storage space in the back. At the back, you’ll also find new heavy-duty hooks – three on each side of the cargo space and two on the tailgate.
Updated infotainment system
Standard on the 2025 Forester is a 7.0-inch dual-screen infotainment system powered by Subaru’s latest Starlink system. The latter features Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and SiriusXM. An 11.6-inch Starlink multimedia system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is also available. Starlink Navigation adds voice navigation via TomTom and SiriusXM Travel Link.
Subaru’s pursuit of safety is increasing again for the 2025 Forester, with the car receiving the latest EyeSight driver assistance technology. Subaru says it operates faster and smoother than before with a wider field of view and uses a new electric brake booster. As a result, it can recognize present objects such as cyclists and pedestrians at intersections faster and alert or respond appropriately and faster. Reverse automatic braking, blind-spot detection with lane change assist and rear cross-traffic alert are also available. The DriverFocus distraction mitigation system is standard on the Touring model.
Subaru also offers a new feature: Emergency Stop Assist. Using a driver attention detection system, it is activated if the driver does not respond to warnings. Which causes the car to stop and open the doors.
Familiar engine
The new Forester is powered by the familiar 180-hp 2.5-liter boxer engine and a CVT transmission. Which means that complaints of weak power will continue to the new generation. Premium, Sport, Limited and Touring grades will have a manual mode controlled by paddle shifters mounted on the steering wheel.
The engine works with all-wheel drive, active torque vectoring and SI-Drive performance management system. But you’ll have to get the Sport trim and move up to X-MODE to improve off-road capability.
For the first time, Subaru is offering a hands-free power liftgate, but this won’t be standard on all models. Steering Responsive LED headlights with automatic high beam function are standard. Optional features will include a wireless phone charger and an all-weather package with heated seats, mirrors and wipers. The Touring model will now come with cooled front seats.
Deliveries will begin in spring 2024 for the new Subaru Forester, with full pricing to be confirmed closer to delivery time.
