As one of the market’s top-selling SUVs, the Subaru Forester enjoys a dedicated fan base drawn to its practicality, efficiency, and capability blend. The 2025 Forester, in its redesigned form, maintains these qualities while introducing enhancements that both loyal customers and new enthusiasts can appreciate. The vehicle’s stiffer structure, increased cargo space, and upgraded in-car technology contribute to its appeal. Even the heritage-inspired design may strike a chord with Subaru devotees.
Under the hood, the Forester relies on familiar components and new engineering. Its 2.5-liter flat-four engine now produces 180 hp and 231 Nm of torque. While experiencing a slight drop in horsepower, the torque has seen a marginal increase compared to the previous generation. The continuously variable transmission and the latest iteration of Subaru’s all-wheel-drive system, now featuring faster response and rear-wheel torque vectoring, come standard. The X-Mode system, known for enhancing off-road performance, remains a standard feature on all trims above the base model.
Significant updates extend to the Forester’s structure, with a shift to full inner frame construction on the modular Subaru Global Platform. This construction method, attaching side panels to the floor before joining the outer skin, results in a 10 percent increase in rigidity, enhancing safety and handling. The exterior design draws inspiration from Subaru’s existing lineup, borrowing elements from the larger Ascent crossover and the WRX, creating a modern yet somewhat intricate look.
Inside the cabin, the Forester boasts a redesigned interior, showcasing Subaru’s 11.6-inch vertical touchscreen and wireless smartphone mirroring on most trims. The Forester-specific design prioritizes driver and passenger comfort, with a raised dashboard for increased knee room and a lower beltline for improved visibility. Practical features, such as wide openings for easy entry and exit and a spacious cargo area, make the Forester well-suited for family use.
Safety remains a priority, with all Forester trims equipped with an updated version of the Subaru EyeSight suite of active safety technologies. New additions include a wide-angle monocamera for enhanced pedestrian and cyclist detection and an emergency assist feature that activates hazard lights, stops the car, and contacts emergency services if the driver becomes unresponsive. Additional safety features include blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic detection, and an Automatic Emergency Steering system that steers the vehicle away from obstacles if the driver fails to react.
Overall, the 2025 Subaru Forester retains its core strengths while introducing structural and technological advancements, making it an enticing option for both loyal fans and those exploring the SUV/crossover market.
There is no word yet about a Philippine release, but judging by past models, we could expect it to arrive locally sometime in the future.
