With the increased popularity of the compact SUV, Subaru does its best to keep the Forester updated and able to go toe-to-toe with the competition with more than just standard AWD.
For 2025, the Subaru Forester looks more like an SUV and one that’s more sculpted than Forester models in the past — leaving behind the station wagon look and fully embracing the SUV style.
The styling is handsomely tough, with a bold grill design and a flash of modern style with LED lighting up front adding flare to the normally conservatively styled Subaru. Even bulging fender flares lead to a more interesting looking SUV than before. The sport model adds bronze-colored trim pieces and 19-inch wheels, also in that noticeable color scheme. Another thing you notice is the large window all around.
The fresh-looking Subaru Forester has improved capability. It feels tighter and more rigid than before. It takes bumps well, with less shudder than previous versions. There is less noise on the road than before, but it’s not as hushed as some of the big competitors in this class.
One area where the Forester really excels is dealing with the road when the weather isn’t nice. Rain or snow — its very sure footed, with a standard AWD system. I experienced how capable it was in the snow, as it just powered through where others were struggling.
With just 180hp, this Forester Sport wasn’t very sporty when you hit the gas, but the fuel economy numbers are impressive.
Hop in and the cabin is modern and better looking than before. The StarTex water-repellent upholstery is year-round durable and it’s handsome with a nice two-tone color scheme. There is copper stitching and accents to add a splash of color.
The cabin is spacious with good headroom and legroom for passengers in the front and back seats. A large touch screen manages Radio/NAV functions, with knobs for volume and tuning. The HVAC controls are mostly integrated with the touch screen and there is a bit of learning curve.
The new hands-free power rear gate is a nice addition for hands-full loading of cargo.
Cost: $34,495; as tested $37,590
MPG: 25 MPG City; 32 MPG Highway. I managed 29.3 in 590 miles of mixed driving.
Options: $1,700 optional package $1,395 destination and delivery
Safety: Rear vision camera; X-mode with hill descent control; EyeSight driver assist technology with advanced adaptive cruise with lane centering; high beam assist; steering responsive LED headlights; brake assist and brake override system
Things to know: The Subaru Forester gets a big makeover for 2025, with a new look and a better interior but keeps its family-friendly space and capable drive in any condition with confidence for a fair price.
Pros:
- Good fuel economy for an AWD SUV
- New look helps it look less like a station wagon and more like an SUV
- Good space for front and rear seat riders
Cons:
- You’ll need some time to learn the revised Starlink system to use it properly
- Some road noise at highway speeds is less than before but more than others
- Not much power in this SUV when the seats are full
