2025 SUBARU FORESTER HYBRID REVIEW AND OFF-ROAD TEST

EV Channels Review

The 2025 Subaru Forester Hybrid, in its top-tier Touring trim, offers a compelling blend of enhanced performance and impressive fuel economy, addressing the growing demand for electrified powertrains in the compact crossover segment. The reviewer highlights a significant improvement in acceleration over the standard Forester, attributing it to the new hybrid system which delivers a combined 194 horsepower. Real-world highway testing yielded an outstanding nearly 40 MPG, a key advantage over its gasoline-only counterparts. Off-road capability remains a strong suit, with the hybrid model retaining Subaru's signature symmetrical all-wheel drive and an enhanced X-Mode that performs admirably on challenging trails, even with all-season tires. While the interior boasts modern features like a large digital cluster and touchscreen, the reviewer notes dated graphics and an overreliance on piano black trim as minor drawbacks. The lack of a spare tire is also a point of contention. Despite these criticisms, the Forester Hybrid is praised for its comfortable ride, utilitarian design, and overall capability, making it a strong contender against rivals like the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid.