Review and specifications
2025 Subaru Forester Hybrid
The Forester, a perennial high-scorer in CR's compact SUV ratings, is available for the first time in hybrid form. An electric motor backed by a lithium-ion battery augments its 2.5-liter flat-four engine. That hybrid powertrain increases horsepower to 194 compared with 180 for the regular Forester. We measured 34 mpg overall, a good bump from the 29 mpg overall that we recorded on the regular Forester we tested. The Hybrid retains all of the Forester's key virtues, including a comfortable ride, excellent outward visibility, and a roomy rear seat. But the Hybrid is quieter than the regular model, and benefits from a more pleasant initial takeoff, thanks to the electric drive. It can also propel itself on electric power alone at low speeds. Unlike the conventionally-powered Forester, all hybrid trims come standard with BSW and RCTW.
- Market value
- $36,595
- Fuel
- Hybrid
- Transmission
- Automatic
- Seats
- 5
At a glance
Model data
Overview
- Powertrain
- Hybrid
- Body style
- 4-door SUV
- Drive type
- AWD
- Transmission
- CVT
- Category
- Compact SUVs
- Generation began
- 2025
Pricing
- Original MSRP range
- $36,595 - $43,295
Ratings
- Road test score
- 92/100
- Owner satisfaction
- 4/5
- Would buy again
- 79%
- Reliability
- 4/5
Fuel economy
- EPA city
- 35 MPG
- EPA highway
- 34 MPG
- EPA combined
- 35 MPG
- Tested city
- 26 MPG
- Tested highway
- 42 MPG
- Tested overall
- 34 MPG
- Annual fuel cost
- $1,150
- Cruising range
- 560 miles
Road tests
- 0-30 mph
- 3.3 sec
- 0-60 mph
- 9.3 sec
- 60-0 mph braking
- 137 ft
- Avoidance speed
- 53 mph
- Test status
- Test Completed
Dimensions
- Length
- 183 in
- Width
- 72 in
- Height
- 68 in
- Wheelbase
- 105 in
- Weight
- 3,885 lb
- Maximum load
- 900 lb
- Towing capacity
- 1,500 lb
Interior
- Seating
- 5 people
- Front head room
- 4 in
- Front leg room
- 43.5 in
- Rear head room
- 2.5 in
- Rear leg room
- 31.5 in
- Cargo volume
- 38.5 cu ft
- Luggage
- 4+0+0
Owner feedback
- Comfort
- 5/5
- Driving
- 5/5
- Styling
- 5/5
- Value
- 2/5
Environmental impact
- Air pollution score
- 7/10
- Greenhouse gas score
- 7/10
- SmartWay
- No
Brand context
About Subaru
<p>Subaru is known for driver-friendly cars and SUVs with standard full-time all-wheel drive. Its models frequently rank near the top of Consumer Reports’ owner satisfaction and reliability ratings, making some used Subarus a good choice. Along with all-wheel drive, Subarus are known for using a “boxer” style four-cylinder engine with opposing pistons that move horizontally. The design reduces vibration and gives the vehicle a low center of gravity. Most Subarus have options like heated seats and leather upholstery. The Crosstrek and Forester are each available as a fuel-efficient hybrid. The brand’s first electric vehicle, the Solterra, is joined by the Trailseeker and Uncharted SUVs. Sports cars like the WRX and rear-drive BRZ showcase the brand’s wilder side.</p>
Vehicle ID: 35023 First published: February 6, 2025 Updated: June 4, 2026
Values may vary by trim, options, location, and market conditions.