Trims
It’s uncertain if the 2025 Forester Hybrid will be available as a single trim or in multiple variants. In the past, the company’s only other hybrid sold in the U.S., the Crosstrek Hybrid, came packaged either way, depending on the model year. The company may initially offer the Forester Hybrid with one trim, expanding to different grades as demand becomes more certain and production capabilities expand.
Powertrain
Given Subaru’s tendency to share powertrains among different models, it’s reasonable to assume that what will sit under the hood of the 2025 Forester Hybrid will also find a home in the 2026 Crosstrek Hybrid. Industry reports and Subaru’s insights about the forthcoming Crosstrek reveal that both vehicles will share a new 2.5-liter four-cylinder boxer engine paired with two electric motors.
The series-parallel system uses one electric motor to drive the wheels and the other to generate electricity. Depending on the driving conditions, the vehicle can be powered by either its combustion engine or the electric motor. Subaru forecasts that the new Crosstrek Hybrid will deliver a 20% improvement in fuel economy. We expect the Forester Hybrid to offer similar fuel savings.
Like most Subarus, the 2025 Forester Hybrid will have Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive spinning all four wheels, enabling this two-row utility to tackle snow and slippery roads easily. To enhance efficiency, the traditional continuously variable transmission (CVT) will be swapped out for an electronically controlled unit, a common characteristic of modern hybrids.
Standard Features
What’s included with the 2025 Forester Hybrid will depend significantly on the yet-to-be-determined trim range. Using the all-new conventional (non-hybrid) 2025 Subaru Forester as a guide, we expect the gas-electric edition to have standard LED steering-responsive headlights with automatic controls, dual-zone automatic climate controls, a 4.2-inch digital driver information display, multiple USB ports, and a tilt-and-telescopic steering column. The available upscale amenities could include a panoramic sunroof, heated power front seats, and a driver's memory system. Seat covers will likely range from fabric to StarTex leatherette or leather upholstery. The wheels are expected to be made of aluminum with sizes ranging from 17 to 19 inches.
Advanced Driver Aids and Safety Technology
Subaru’s widely regarded EyeSight advanced driver-assist technology suite will be a significant feature of the 2025 Forester Hybrid. The technology includes forward collision warning, pre-collision braking, lane departure and sway warning, lane keep assist, emergency steering, adaptive cruise control with lane centering, and automatic high beams. Look for the DriverFocus distraction mitigation system on at least the highest trim level. Full information about any additional driver aids to be included will be released by Subaru closer to the model’s release.
Infotainment and Connectivity
We anticipate that infotainment for the Forester Hybrid will be based around an 11.6-inch touchscreen. The system will feature wireless Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, Bluetooth, HD Radio, SiriusXM satellite radio, and access to a Wi-Fi hotspot and Starlink connected services. The topmost trim should come with a premium audio system and navigation.
