2025 Subaru Forester: Stiffer and Smarter With a Hybrid Model on the Way

The new generation of Subaru's bestselling crossover, the 2025 Subaru Forester, was revealed Thursday at the 2023 Los Angeles Auto Show. The redesigned crossover is built on a stronger platform than ever before, with new convenience and safety technologies, improved driving dynamics, and an upcoming hybrid variant. Also, it has Life Alert. Not literally, but that's what went through my head when I read about one of its biggest features.

Let's start with the mechanicals though, with the new unibody that's 10% stiffer owing to stronger welding techniques and extra structural adhesive. Power comes from a 2.5-liter flat-four engine making 180 horsepower and 178 pound-feet of torque, sent by a CVT to Subaru's symmetrical all-wheel drive system. Subaru also announced during its show presentation that a hybrid model is coming in a year or so, though it didn't disclose whether that'd be a regular hybrid or a plug-in.

Seventeen-inch wheels and standard torque vectoring make handling predictable, boosting agility and stability. It adopts variable-ratio electric power steering from the WRX too, and remains handy off-tarmac with 8.7 inches of ground clearance. Some trims also get improved traction software that includes hill descent control.

Inside, the new Forester features more sound deadening for a quieter cabin, reducing noise from the roof by 39 percent. Dual-zone climate control is standard, and uses sensors to focus it where passengers are sitting. It's controlled by one of two standard 7.0-inch touchscreens, which can be switched for a single 11.6-inch screen on some trims. A foot-gesture tailgate for easy loading allows access to a cargo area that can reach 74.4 cubic feet with the rear seats flat. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are available, as are a wide range of trims: Base, Premium, Sport, Limited, and Touring.