The 2025 Subaru Forester First Drive Review marks a significant milestone for the beloved compact SUV. Subaru has consistently delivered dependable and capable vehicles, and the Forester has become a staple for families and adventurers alike. This new iteration promises to build upon its legacy with a refined design, advanced technology, and enhanced performance, offering a compelling blend of practicality and driving pleasure.
From the outset, the 2025 Forester exudes a sense of confidence and sophistication. The updated exterior styling is subtle yet impactful, with a more assertive front grille, sharper headlights, and a sleeker profile. The interior cabin, however, is where the real transformation takes place. High-quality materials, an intuitive layout, and a generous dose of comfort features create a welcoming and refined atmosphere.
Subaru has clearly focused on elevating the driving experience, integrating cutting-edge technology that enhances safety, connectivity, and entertainment.
2025 Subaru Forester: A First Drive Review: 2025 Subaru Forester First Drive Review
The Subaru Forester has long been a popular choice for families and outdoor enthusiasts, known for its rugged capabilities, spacious interior, and reliable performance. For the 2025 model year, Subaru has made significant updates to the Forester, aiming to enhance its appeal and solidify its position in the competitive compact SUV segment. This first drive review will delve into the key features and improvements of the new Forester, providing insights into its driving experience and overall value proposition.
Exterior Design and Styling
The 2025 Subaru Forester features a refreshed exterior design that incorporates a more modern and sophisticated aesthetic. The front fascia boasts a redesigned grille with a prominent Subaru badge, flanked by sharp LED headlights. The sculpted hood and aggressive front bumper give the Forester a more assertive presence. The side profile remains largely unchanged, but the addition of new wheel designs and optional roof rails adds to its versatility.
The rear end features revised taillights, a new rear bumper, and a subtle spoiler.
Interior Design and Technology
The interior of the 2025 Subaru Forester has received a comprehensive overhaul, focusing on comfort, technology, and functionality. The dashboard is now more driver-centric, featuring a larger 11.6-inch touchscreen display that houses the infotainment system. The system is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, providing seamless smartphone integration. The center console has been redesigned to offer more storage space, and the seats are now more comfortable and supportive.
Engine and Performance
The 2025 Subaru Forester is powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and Subaru’s signature Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system. The Forester offers a smooth and refined driving experience, with ample power for everyday driving and confident acceleration for highway merging.
Fuel Economy and Efficiency
Subaru has made strides in improving the Forester’s fuel efficiency for the 2025 model year. The new model is expected to achieve an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 28 mpg city, 33 mpg highway, and 30 mpg combined. These figures represent a significant improvement over the previous model year.
Exterior Design
The 2025 Subaru Forester retains its familiar SUV silhouette but features a refreshed design that gives it a more modern and rugged look. The overall design is evolutionary, with subtle changes that enhance its visual appeal and functionality.The front fascia is where the most noticeable changes are made.
Front Grille and Headlights
The front grille is now larger and more prominent, with a bolder design that features a hexagonal shape and a black honeycomb mesh pattern. This gives the Forester a more aggressive and imposing stance. The headlights are also redesigned, with a more angular shape and slimmer LED elements. The new headlights integrate seamlessly with the grille, creating a cohesive and modern look.
Taillights
The taillights have also been redesigned, featuring a more modern and stylish design. The taillights are now more angular and wrap around the sides of the vehicle, creating a wider and more dynamic appearance. They also feature LED elements, which provide improved visibility and a more contemporary look.
Comparison to Previous Generations
The 2025 Forester’s exterior design is a significant departure from the previous generation, which featured a more rounded and conservative design. The new model has a more sculpted and angular design that gives it a more rugged and sophisticated look. The front grille, headlights, and taillights have all been redesigned to create a more modern and dynamic appearance.
Interior and Technology
Stepping inside the 2025 Subaru Forester, you’re greeted by a cabin that feels both familiar and refined. Subaru has taken a more modern approach to the interior, blending practicality with a touch of luxury.The interior of the 2025 Forester is a comfortable and functional space. Subaru has focused on providing a pleasant and practical driving experience, with comfortable seating and a well-designed layout.
Materials and Comfort
The interior materials used in the 2025 Forester are of high quality, with soft-touch surfaces on the dashboard and door panels. The seats are comfortable and supportive, offering ample legroom and headroom for both front and rear passengers. The Forester’s cabin is also well-insulated, providing a quiet and peaceful driving experience.
Cargo Space
The Forester continues to offer ample cargo space, with 28.9 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 76.1 cubic feet with the seats folded down. This makes it a practical choice for families and adventurers alike.
Infotainment System
The 2025 Forester comes equipped with a new 11.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system that is user-friendly and responsive. The system features Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, as well as a suite of apps and services. The Forester also includes a premium sound system for an enjoyable audio experience.
Driver Assistance Features
Subaru’s EyeSight suite of driver assistance features is standard on the 2025 Forester. This suite includes features like automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and blind spot monitoring. These features help to make the Forester a safer and more enjoyable vehicle to drive.
Connectivity Options, 2025 subaru forester first drive review
The 2025 Forester offers a variety of connectivity options, including multiple USB ports, wireless charging, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. These features allow passengers to stay connected and entertained while on the road.
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Performance and Handling
The 2025 Subaru Forester is a compact SUV that offers a balance of practicality and performance. While it’s not the sportiest SUV in its class, it delivers adequate power and a comfortable ride.
Engine Options
The 2025 Subaru Forester is available with two engine options: a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. The base engine produces 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque, while the turbocharged engine generates 271 horsepower and 341 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and Subaru’s symmetrical all-wheel drive system.
Acceleration, Braking, and Handling
The 2.5-liter engine provides sufficient power for everyday driving, but it can feel sluggish when accelerating from a standstill or merging onto a highway. The turbocharged engine, however, offers much quicker acceleration, making the Forester feel more responsive and enjoyable to drive. The CVT does a good job of providing smooth acceleration, but it can sometimes feel a bit rubbery, especially when accelerating hard.The Forester’s braking system is reliable and provides adequate stopping power.
The vehicle’s handling is also well-balanced, offering a comfortable ride without sacrificing too much agility. The Forester’s all-wheel drive system provides excellent traction in slippery conditions, making it a capable vehicle for driving in all types of weather.
Performance Compared to Other Compact SUVs
Compared to other compact SUVs in its class, the 2025 Subaru Forester sits in the middle of the pack in terms of performance. It’s not as sporty as the Mazda CX-5 or the Honda CR-V, but it’s more capable off-road than the Toyota RAV4 or the Nissan Rogue. The Forester’s strengths lie in its practicality, fuel efficiency, and all-wheel drive capability.
Fuel Efficiency and Practicality
The 2025 Subaru Forester offers a compelling blend of fuel efficiency and practicality, making it an excellent choice for everyday driving and weekend adventures. Its fuel economy is competitive within its class, and its spacious interior and versatile cargo area contribute to its overall practicality.
Fuel Efficiency
The 2025 Subaru Forester’s fuel efficiency is impressive, especially considering its size and capabilities. The standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine is expected to achieve an estimated fuel economy of 28 mpg combined, while the optional turbocharged 2.4-liter engine is projected to achieve around 26 mpg combined. These figures are in line with or better than many of its competitors in the compact SUV segment.
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The 2025 Subaru Forester’s fuel efficiency is enhanced by its continuously variable transmission (CVT), which helps optimize engine performance for fuel economy.
The Forester’s fuel efficiency is further enhanced by its lightweight construction and aerodynamic design, which minimize drag and improve overall efficiency.
Practicality for Everyday Driving
The 2025 Subaru Forester is highly practical for everyday driving, offering a spacious and comfortable interior, a versatile cargo area, and a range of user-friendly features.
Spacious Interior
The Forester’s interior is spacious and comfortable, providing ample legroom and headroom for both front and rear passengers. The front seats are supportive and comfortable, while the rear seats offer a good amount of legroom and can be folded down to increase cargo space.
Versatile Cargo Area
The Forester’s cargo area is spacious and versatile, offering a generous 76.1 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded down. The cargo area is also easy to access, thanks to a wide opening and a low cargo floor.
User-Friendly Features
The 2025 Subaru Forester is equipped with a range of user-friendly features that enhance its practicality for everyday driving. These features include a large touchscreen infotainment system, a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance technologies, and a comfortable and quiet cabin.
Safety and Reliability
Subaru has always been known for its commitment to safety, and the 2025 Forester continues this tradition with a comprehensive suite of advanced safety features and technologies. The Forester has consistently received high safety ratings from independent organizations, making it a top choice for families and drivers looking for peace of mind.
Safety Features
The 2025 Forester comes standard with Subaru’s EyeSight suite of driver-assist technologies. This includes features such as automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, lane keep assist, and blind spot monitoring. These systems work together to help prevent accidents and keep you safe on the road. Additionally, the Forester offers optional safety features like a driver attention monitor, a rear automatic braking system, and a high-beam assist system.
Reliability
The Subaru Forester has a long-standing reputation for reliability, and the 2025 model is expected to continue this trend. Subaru consistently ranks high in reliability surveys conducted by organizations like J.D. Power and Consumer Reports. This reputation is built on the Forester’s well-engineered design, use of quality materials, and a proven track record of durability. The Forester’s robust construction and reliable powertrain contribute to its long-term dependability.
Safety Rating
The 2025 Subaru Forester has earned top safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The Forester has received a 5-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and has been named a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS. These ratings are a testament to the Forester’s comprehensive safety features and robust construction.
The 2025 Subaru Forester’s safety features and reliability make it a compelling choice for drivers who prioritize safety and peace of mind. Its comprehensive safety suite and proven track record of dependability offer reassurance and confidence on the road.
Competition and Pricing
The 2025 Subaru Forester faces stiff competition in the ever-popular compact SUV segment, with a range of well-established and capable rivals. We’ll compare the Forester to its key competitors and delve into its pricing and value proposition to see how it stacks up.
Key Competitors
The 2025 Subaru Forester goes head-to-head with a number of popular compact SUVs, including:
- Honda CR-V
- Toyota RAV4
- Mazda CX-5
- Ford Escape
- Nissan Rogue
- Hyundai Tucson
- Kia Sportage
These competitors offer a diverse range of features, performance, and pricing, making the Forester’s position in the market competitive but demanding.
Pricing and Value
The 2025 Subaru Forester’s starting price is competitive with its rivals. The base model is expected to start around $26,000, while higher trims with additional features and capabilities can reach into the low $30,000s.
- Value Proposition: The Forester offers a compelling value proposition with its standard all-wheel drive, spacious interior, and robust safety features. It also boasts a reputation for reliability and durability, making it an attractive option for families and those seeking a practical and dependable SUV.
- Features and Options: The Forester offers a range of trim levels, allowing buyers to customize their vehicle based on their needs and budget. Higher trims offer features like leather upholstery, a sunroof, a premium sound system, and advanced driver-assistance systems.
Competitiveness in the Segment
The 2025 Subaru Forester stands out in the compact SUV segment with its standard all-wheel drive and rugged capability. It’s also known for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and good fuel economy. While some competitors might offer slightly better performance or technology, the Forester remains a solid and well-rounded option in its class.
Overall Impression
The 2025 Subaru Forester delivers a solid and refined driving experience, building upon its reputation as a capable and practical SUV. It offers a comfortable ride, ample cargo space, and a suite of advanced safety features. While the Forester might not be the most exciting or sporty option in its class, it excels in its core strengths, making it a compelling choice for families and individuals seeking a reliable and versatile vehicle.
Strengths and Weaknesses
The Forester’s strengths lie in its practicality, fuel efficiency, and safety features. Its spacious interior and ample cargo space make it ideal for families or those who frequently haul gear. The fuel efficiency is commendable, especially considering its size and capability. The suite of safety features, including Subaru’s EyeSight suite, provides peace of mind and contributes to a safer driving experience.
However, the Forester’s performance and handling are not as sharp as some competitors. While it’s not sluggish, it lacks the agility and sporty feel of some other SUVs in its class. Additionally, the infotainment system, while functional, could benefit from a more intuitive interface and faster response times.
The 2025 Subaru Forester delivers on its promise of a well-rounded driving experience. It blends practicality with a touch of excitement, offering a comfortable and capable ride that caters to a diverse range of lifestyles. Whether navigating city streets or venturing off-road, the Forester remains a reliable companion. The blend of features, performance, and value make it a compelling choice in the competitive compact SUV segment, solidifying its position as a frontrunner in its class.