2025 SUBARU FORESTER

 

REDESIGNED FORESTER MOVES INTO SIXTH GENERATION WITH LAUNCH OF 2025 MODEL

Birthed in the mid-1990s, the Subaru Forester advances to its sixth generation with the launching of the 2025 model.

Not the sexiest offering in the Japanese automaker’s lineup, the 2025 Subaru Forester gets the latest version of the company’s EyeSight Driver Assist system that includes such feaTures as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and emergency braking as well as a restyled cabin and exterior.

All trims come with a revised 2.5-liter, flat-4 (or Boxer) engine that puts out a mild 180 horsepower and 178 pound-feet of torque, much the same as the previous underpowered Forester.

Mated to a continuously variable transmission, it makes up for a lackluster zero-to-60 mph time that approaches nine seconds with efficient fuel-mileage numbers of 26 miles-per-gallon city 33 highway, and 29 combined using regular gasoline.

The 2025 Subaru Forester currently is available in five trim levels Base, Premium, Sport, Limited and Touring.

Pricing starts at $31,090 including the destination and delivery charge and runs through $41,390 for the top-of-the-line Touring Model. This review is based on the Limited version which starts at $38,990, including an option package that adds safety and tech features in Subaru’s StarLink package, Harman Kardon Audio, and reverse automatic braking.

The 2024 Subaru Forester Limited is nice and roomy inside with comfortable seating for five that provides 43.3 inches of legroom in the front and just under 40 in the second row while still leaving 29.6 cubic feet of cargo space in the far back.

Other standard features include dual-zone climate control, keyless entry and push-button starter, automatic stop/start (accessible via a button on the touchscreen), a heated leather-wrapped steering wheel, perforated leather-trimmed upholstery, power panoramic moonroof, one-touch folding rear second-row seat backs, a power hands-free rear liftgate, and StarLink’s connected services (subscription required).

Safety systems in addition to features in the EyeSight package include blind-spot warning, automatic emergency steering (works in conjunction with the EyeSight technology), automatic high-beam assist, and navigation.

Base MSRP is $35,995 before the charges for the options and delivery are added on.

What I liked about the 2025 Subaru Forester Limited: The cabin is roomy and comfortable. Tech features are plentiful and easy to get to. Pushing a button on the large touchscreen display activates an auto hold system that prevents “creeping” at intersections or stops in traffic (though you have to activate it every time you fire up the engine). Fuel mileage is competitive in the segment even with standard AWD. Cargo space is good.

What I didn’t like about the 2025 Subaru Forester Limited: A little more oomph from the 4-cylinder Boxer engine would be appreciated. Matched with a CVT, performance is on the bland side. It would be nice if the image for the backup camera were larger.The touchscreen can present a cluttered appearance depending on the mode selected.

Would I buy the 2025 Subaru Forester Limited? The Forester is not the most exciting vehicle in the segment, but still is a good option if you are in the market for a functional SUV. Its Subaru colleagues Outback and Crosstrek offer more in the way of eye appeal.