This is the all-new 2025 Subaru Forester. We kid you not. Despite looking like a devolution of the current-generation model, the entire sheet metal is new. This is evidenced by its slightly longer length and wider body (wheelbase stays the same). Aside from that though, it’s very clear that the folks over at Subaru desperately need some design help.
The all-new Forester looks like it’s been beat with the ugly stick. Badly. Not only is it bland, but it looks severely dated next to the current-generation Forester; so much so that Subaru actually calls it “classic and rugged.”
The new front-end features a larger, more upright grille—something common with modern crossovers and SUVs, but the overall effect makes the Forester look like result of a three-way between the Ford Explorer, Honda Pilot, and Subaru’s own Ascent/Evoltis. The headlights retain their C-shaped design and is now made to visually merge with the top bar of the grille. There, the updated Subaru star cluster emblem can be seen.
Behind, the 2010s called because the Forester harks back to a style everyone wished never came back: the Altezza lights. The colored-over-clear lamp clusters are also made to merge visually into one unit with the same updated Subaru logo at the middle. Right below it are the words, “FORESTER” spelled out. The all-new Forester also has one of the worst tailpipe treatments possible. Instead of tucking it under the trailing edge of the bumper or introducing dual cut outs, Subaru simply added a faux one to the left side.
Over to the side, the 2025 Forester gets either raised or flushed roof rails, depending on the variant. It also does happen to integrate the “Symmetrical AWD” badges towards the D-pillar and angular black fender flares shown in the Crosstrek and WRX. In fact, an air outlet at the trailing edge of the front wheel—an originally WRX design cue—has been incorporated here and this reduces the lift on the front tires at speed.
Despite the improved aero, the single tailpipe outlet signifies that there’s not much performance under the hood. And yes, for 2025, Subaru has opted to carry the 2.5-liter flat-4 FB25 forward once more. This normally-aspirated engine continues with 180 horsepower and 241 Nm of torque. This is mated to a CVT that’s been updated for a “smoother and quieter performance.”
The platform—the Subaru Global Platform—is also carried over but modified with 10 percent better torsional rigidity. A full inner frame construction with stronger welding techniques and additional structural adhesive contribute to better body rigidity and lighter weight. Handling has, at least, been enhanced thanks to the adoption of the WRX’s dual-pinion steering rack along with Active Torque Vectoring, Subaru’s selectable SI-Drive driving modes, and 17 to 19-inch alloy wheels.
In a blow to early adopters, Subaru will be copying a playbook last seen in the third-generation Forester. At launch, they’ve confirmed that new engines—including a Toyota-sourced hybrid system will join the line-up a year after the 2025 Forester’s North American launch. It goes on sale in the US in Q2 2024, so that puts the timeline of the new engines by early 2025. Perhaps the Forester XT could make a comeback by then?
Inside, the all-new Forester takes on the very same cabin look and feel as the current Crosstrek. Front and center is a 11.6-inch tablet-style infotainment system. That said, the all-new Forester skips the update seen in the JDM version of the WRX—all digital gauges. Instead, it gets the same instrument cluster with a puny multi-info display nestled between two traditional analog gauges. Talk about a throwback. That said, the creature comfort list is solid enough with dual zone climate control with rear vents, ventilated seats/heated seats, and a sunroof.
Style-wise, it has contoured dash elements and textured trim pieces which are designed supposedly to avoid visible damage from daily use. The acoustic-absorbing headliner (39 percent less noise) has also been swapped from light gray to black to avoid scuffing, while the seat construction itself has been improved for better comfort and support. There’s an enlarged cargo hold with a total of eight heavy-duty utility hooks. It also comes with Subaru’s first-ever hands-free power tailgate system.
Like the Crosstrek, the 2025 Forester introduces an electric brake booster. Together with the improved Subaru EyeSight tech, the system can now detect pedestrians and cyclists sooner (even at intersections). And for those who’re worried about the overall dullness of the Forester, a new technology—Emergency Stop Assist—activates if the driver becomes unresponsive to warnings while using the adaptive cruise control. The new standard safety feature will stop the vehicle, activate the hazard lights, and unlock the doors.
For enhanced all-around situational awareness while parking, an available Surround View Monitor offers a 360-degree overhead view of the vehicle and its surroundings. The system combines images from four vehicle cameras to create a single image with a bird’s-eye view of the area around the entire vehicle.
The all-new Subaru Forester is expected to get a price hike with the redesign so after all this, perhaps it’s best to just go with the current-generation model instead?
Another year of waiting. Subaru too slow with the transition to a good hybrid system. They did away with the turbo to comply with the EPA on fuel economy but did not have a timely transition plan to strong hybrids and EV's. They only have the mild hybrid which is not even good to say the least.
ReplyDeleteThey're already left behind by many car manufacturers. Only in 2025 will they have a true hybrid.
So now its bigger but uglier.
ReplyDeleteAny news whether Mazda will bring in the CX 50?
Thats an NA exclusive
DeleteIt's assembled and available in China as well:
Deletehttps://www.carguide.ph/2023/04/mazda-starts-producing-cx-50-outside.html
Looks like I missed this article when it came out. Thats good, hope we get it too because that cx-50 looks good, better than cx-60, for me at least. - R2D2
DeleteThe Forester was always shit.
ReplyDeleteSays someone who has never owned an FXT.
DeleteNot me, the forester is the best car in the world.
DeleteSays the guy who never tried a Forester. Pareha lang kay RG, basher ng Ford pero hindi nakasubok ng Ford.
DeleteThe Forester along with the XV/Crosstrek, even today, seems to be one of the best selling Subarus here in our country. I'm seeing one in almost every corner of the city. If the Forester is shit, then we shouldn't have been seeing many Foresters here.
DeleteCalling it shit is too strong a word. But there's no doubt it's as dull as tap water. It is quite easy to drive, but quite thirsty and not very fast. Had a Forester SH XT...that was something else. Gosh, I miss that car.
DeleteI don't mind the looks but Subarus these days drive like refrigerators and washing machines.
ReplyDeleteWhat is happening? Will the XT return? Will it be assembled in China?
ReplyDeleteCurrent-gen Forester has an XT, but exclusively for Japan. Elsewhere, it's a question mark. It's down to Subaru trying to improve/increase their corporate fuel economy (CAFE).
DeleteChina? Unknown for this one. Currently in Japan. Likely this one will be assembled in Indiana as well.
My eyes tell me there is a hint of veloz on the side and rear.
ReplyDeleteSome people have pointed that out actually.
DeleteWhile front looks like the previous gen pre facelift Ford Exploder
DeleteDiam
ReplyDeleteI agree with the design. It’s so lackluster and is less sporty compared to the current gen. However, at least, in NA market, people buy Subaru because of the practicality and AWD. They couldn’t care less about the design. It has a rabid following. Time will tell if this design will sell well in NA and other markets.
ReplyDeleteSubarus really have design deficits and it's not only now
ReplyDeleteHi Uly, if i had a budget of Php2.6M and can be stretched to 2.8M. What is the better buy? Rav4 LTD hybrid? Cr-v Hybrid? Mazda CX-60? It's for me and my wife and soon to arrive baby and a yaya. I might not be able to hold off and wait for a Forester Hybrid. Might acquire it 1st half 2024.
ReplyDeleteConsideration - driving dynamics, ease of ingress/egress, baby friendly (isofix, safety, etc.), not a daily driver but can be, must be a hybrid (even if the cx-60 is a "mild" hybrid), huge trunk space for stroller, and other baby stuff. lastly reliability.
Thank you. Appreciate your thoughts and insights. Can consider other cars not in my shortlist.
At this point, we don't know what sort of powertrain the Forester Hybrid will use. If it uses the current 2.0-liter e-Boxer, it's quite weak and doesn't deliver much of an advantage fuel economy-wise versus the regular ICE version. I think that's why Subaru is partnering with Toyota on putting the THS into the Forester starting in 2025.
DeleteIf you're looking to acquire H1 2024, all things considered I'd probably remove the CX-60 and RAV4 from your list. The CX-60, while great to drive, isn't exactly family-friendly. Most of the interior room went to the front part. The RAV4, meanwhile, is due for a full model change. It's currently feeling old.
For me, if you can spring for it, go for the CR-V Hybrid. I find it the best balanced among compact SUVs out there. Best space, ride, comfort...handling is not too shabby. And fuel economy is pretty good.
Also, if you don't mind not getting a hybrid, consider the CX-5 instead of the CX-60. It's getting old, but at least it doesn't feel it. If the reports coming out of Malaysia are true, expect the non-turbos to get the same refresh as the CX-5 Turbo also soon.
There's also the Haval hybrids, but they're too much of a question mark aftersales-wise. Haha.
DeleteThank you for your inputs. Was leaving towards the CR-V Hybrid. Hopefully there are more options come when I purchase in H1 2024.
DeleteNot really in a hurry. More power to this page!
I have the same thoughts. Trading in my 2019 Forester for a hybrid and CR-V is at the top of my list. I am at the bottom of the reservation list though. :( I really don't care about the moonroof. The VX variant is a second option but I don't need the third row seats. Is the Corolla Cross Hybrid a good option?
DeleteWe're expecting the Corolla Cross to get an update soon. Better to wait by then if ever?
DeleteCherry Tigo PHEV Uly?
ReplyDeleteCan't recommend what I haven't driven. Plus, not really sold with long-term reliability / aftermarket service of China cars in general. Chery might be okay. Interested to see how they'll price their Tiggo 7 Pro PHEV.
DeleteUly, quick answer. Honda CRV V fwd or Mazda CX5 2.5 non turbo since only 100k separate these 2 models?
ReplyDeleteThere are pros and cons for each model. The CX-5 is certainly the better loaded of the two (feature-wise) and does have the more luxury feeling interior, but doesn't have the same sort of space offered by the CR-V. The CR-V has that in spades.
DeleteIn terms of handling and ride, they're almost evenly matched, but the CR-V is a bit noisier (road noise) compared to the CX-5. The CX-5 doesn't have the same turbo-punch, but output-wise, their engines produce similar outputs. It's a win for the CX-5 here.
Right now, it's a toss up...perhaps leaning more on the CX-5 if we compare the CR-V 1.5T V and the CX-5 2.5 AWD.
That said, I'd probably wait for the CX-5's rumored refresh (based off news in Malaysia) and see how things will stack up.
You should also consider Mazda's around 100K to 150K free 5 years pms.
DeleteUly, is it a refresh or an all new CX5 that's scheduled for 2024? Should the Forester i-S be an option vs the CX5 AWD non turbo and CRV V variant?
ReplyDeleteBased on the spy shots from Malaysia, it's basically the turbo face/features on the non-turbo Malaysia CKD CX-5...so it's a refresh.
DeleteI can't recommend the Forester too much because of that anemic engine. If the PH had the 2.5 it would have been easier to recommend it. At this point, you could try the Forester...but it's just too meh for me.