Introducing the highly anticipated 2025 Subaru Forester – a refined and sophisticated addition to the Subaru family. While known for their incremental updates, Subaru has delivered standout changes with this latest model. MotorGold.net presents a detailed review of the 2025 Forester, exploring its remarkable features that make it a top choice in the compact SUV market for enthusiasts of reliability, ruggedness, and all-weather capability.
Introduction
When considering the Subaru Forester, several characteristics come to mind: reliability, ability to handle off-road terrain, and a tough exterior that sets it apart from other SUVs. In 2025, Subaru has maintained the successful foundation of the Forester while also introducing enhancements to enhance the driving experience without sacrificing its well-known attributes. Although not an entirely new model, the 2025 Subaru Forester presents enough modifications to warrant closer examination.
Modern exterior design
While the 2025 Subaru Forester looks similar to its predecessor at first glance, closer inspection reveals several design elements that modernize the vehicle without detracting too much from its roots. Every exterior body panel has been redesigned, giving it a more squared-off appearance, particularly around the wheel wells. While these changes may seem minor, they contribute to a more contemporary appearance that blends well with the current landscape of compact SUVs.
With only 0.5 inches wider and 0.6 inches longer, Subaru has maintained the same dimensions of the previous model for the 2025 Forester. Despite this small increase in size, the Forester still maintains a practical footprint for both urban and off-road use.
Interior and Design
Subaru has improved the interior quality of the 2025 Subaru Forester by adding ritzier materials and new design touches. The cabin feels both familiar and fresh. There are more aggressive thigh and shoulder bolsters on the new seats, providing better support during long drives.
Subaru has tripled the amount of structural adhesive used in the 2025 Forester, resulting in a quieter cabin, even at highway speeds. This is one of the most significant improvements in the 2025 Forester. By increasing the thickness of the windshield and adding additional sound insulation, the Forester becomes a more pleasant place to drive.
Although the interior is more refined than before, it doesn’t match competitors like the Mazda CX-5 and Honda CR-V in terms of overall luxury and modernity. In terms of graphics and user interface, the large 11.6-inch infotainment screen feels quite dated, despite being functional.
Performance
As with the last two generations of the Subaru Forester, the 2025 model is powered by the 2.5-liter flat-four engine. Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system and continuous variable transmission (CVT) produce 180 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque from this engine.
It’s clear that Subaru has focused on refining the driving experience, even though the powertrain hasn’t seen much change. There are now eight simulated steps instead of seven in the CVT, reducing “rubber-band” effects that can occur with such transmissions. As a result, the driving experience is smoother and more responsive, especially in city traffic.
As a result, the Forester is not a sporty SUV in the sense that it is competent and well-refined, but lacks the excitement and engagement of some of its competitors. In spite of the steering being accurate, it feels somewhat artificial, as it provides little feedback about the road. Although the Forester’s soft suspension absorbs bumps and rough roads well, it’s not particularly fun to drive.
Subaru’s Off-Road Capability
In terms of off-road capability, the Subaru Forester 2025 shines. Subaru has always positioned the Forester as a vehicle for those who seek adventure, and this latest model continues that tradition. The Forester is well equipped for dirt roads, gravel trails, and light off-roading thanks to its 8.7 inches of ground clearance and Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive.
The Forester proved to be capable of navigating washed-out trails as well as climbing steep mountain roads during our testing. The Forester handled rough conditions smoothly, even on 19-inch wheels with the Sport trim. Thanks to its robust suspension and all-terrain tires, the Forester handled rough conditions with ease.For those who need a vehicle that can handle the rigors of outdoor adventures, the 2025 Subaru Forester is a solid choice. Despite not having the ruggedness of a body-on-frame SUV, it offers an impressive balance of comfort and capability, making it a versatile choice for a wide range of drivers.
Fuel efficiency
In terms of fuel efficiency, the 2025 Subaru Forester delivers respectable numbers, but it doesn’t stand out in a crowded compact SUV segment. Our Forester achieved 31 mpg on the highway, just shy of the EPA’s official rating of 28 mpg combined. During our highway testing, the Forester achieved 25 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway.
Even though these numbers are competitive, they do not give the Forester a significant advantage over rivals like the Toyota RAV4 or Honda CR-V, especially since those models offer hybrid options as well. With the growing demand for fuel-efficient vehicles, Subaru has not yet introduced a hybrid version of the Forester, which may be a missed opportunity.
Safety and Reliance
It has always been Subaru’s priority to make sure its vehicles are safe, and the 2025 Forester continues that tradition. In addition to adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assistance, and pre-collision braking, the vehicle comes standard with Subaru’s EyeSight driver assistance technology. As a result of these features, all occupants are protected by a suite of airbags, including front, side, and curtain airbags.
As part of the optional advanced safety technologies available with the 2025 Forester, reverse automatic braking and blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert are among the standard safety features. Forester’s already strong safety profile is enhanced by these systems, making it one of the safest choices in its class.
Trim levels
A variety of trim levels are available for the 2025 Subaru Forester, each offering a unique blend of features and capabilities. Here’s a closer look at what each trim level offers:
Base Trim
With the Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, 2.5-liter engine, and EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, the Base trim offers a solid foundation. Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a rearview camera are included in the 6.5-inch infotainment system. Base Trim is For Budget-conscious buyers who want the essentials without compromising safety or reliability.
Premium Trim
A power-adjustable driver’s seat, heated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, and 17-inch alloy wheels are included in the Premium trim, as well as a number of comfort and convenience features. Additionally, the Premium trim features an upgraded 8-inch infotainment screen and additional USB ports. Premium Trim is for those seeking comfort and convenience in their daily drives, without venturing into luxury.
Sport Trim
With its 19-inch wheels, sport-tuned suspension, and unique exterior styling elements, the Sport trim adds a touch of flair. Orange interior accents, leather-wrapped steering wheel, and paddle shifters add to the Forester’s engaging driving experience. The Sport trim also comes with a dual-function X-MODE, enhancing its off-road capabilities. Sport Trim is for Drivers seeking a more dynamic and sporty driving experience, as well as enhanced off-road capabilities.
Limited Trim
A premium Harman/Kardon audio system, leather upholstery, a power rear liftgate, and dual-zone automatic climate control are included in the Limited trim, which emphasizes luxury and technology. Additionally, the Limited trim comes with reverse automatic braking and blind-spot detection with rear cross-traffic alert, among other safety features.Buyers who want a more luxurious experience with added safety and technology can go for the Limited trim.
Touring Trim
In addition to offering the most comprehensive set of features, the Touring trim is at the top of the line. It includes all the amenities of the Limited trim, plus exclusive features like heated rear seats, heated steering wheel, and an upgraded navigation system. Chrome door handles and unique exterior accents round out the Touring trim.This is the perfect choice for those who want the best of the best, with every available feature and the highest level of comfort and luxury.
Competitive Pricing and Value
As of 2025, Subaru Foresters are reasonably priced, starting at $31,090 for the base model and topping out at $41,390 for the Touring trim. Sport trim, priced at $35,890, offers a good mix of comfort, technology, and off-road capability without breaking the bank for those looking for a balance between features and value.
Despite incremental price increases over the years, the Forester remains an affordable option compared to many of its competitors. One of the Forester’s strengths has always been its value proposition. Furthermore, the Forester boasts standard all-wheel drive and excellent safety credentials, making it a good choice for budget-conscious buyers.
The Verdict
Subaru has taken what worked in previous models and refined it, so the 2025 Subaru Forester is quieter, more comfortable, and more capable than before. It may not be a revolutionary update, but it is an important one. Even though the Forester lacks some of the excitement and modernity of its competitors, it stands out in the compact SUV market because of its combination of reliability, off-road capability, and safety.
For those who value substance over style, the 2025 Subaru Forester is a vehicle that delivers on its promises. It doesn’t turn heads, but it gets the job done with a level of competence and confidence that few other SUVs can match. Whether you’re a longtime Subaru fan or a first-time buyer, the Forester is a true all-rounder with a unique blend of features.
Conclusion
A comprehensive review and analysis has led MotorGold.net to recommend the Subaru Forester as the best vehicle for drivers who value practicality, safety, and off-road capability. Although it may not be the most exciting SUV on the market, its strength lies in its reliability and consistency, which are qualities many buyers will appreciate. For 2025, the Forester has not undergone radical changes, but it has certainly improved in the areas where its core market cares most.
In our opinion at MotorGold.net, the Subaru Forester is a vehicle that stays true to its roots but offers enough modern touches to make it relevant in today’s competitive market. Foresters are dependable and capable compact SUVs, so they should be at the top of your list for those looking for them.
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Shashwat Singh, an esteemed author at motorgold.net, combines his Master’s degree in Tourism and Travel Management with a Bachelor’s degree in Automotive Engineering. With more than 5 years of experience in the automotive industry, Shashwat specializes in car reviews, industry analysis, and automotive journalism.