The SUV is expected to adopt the electrified powertrain of the Japanese-spec Crosstrek Hybrid, developed with the help of Toyota
- Subaru has announced that the new Forester Hybrid will launch by mid-2025.
- The hybrid setup is expected to combine a 2.5-liter boxer with two electric motors.
- The electrified SUV will retain Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system.
Subaru is gearing up for the launch of the all-important hybrid variant of the new generation Forester in the US, as the company has quietly confirmed on its consumer website that the model will go on sale by mid-2025. While it calls it a 2025MY, given the timeframe, it could end up being marketed as a 2026MY. This new version will retain the Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, but with enhanced efficiency and lower emissions compared to its gasoline-powered counterpart.
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The Forester Hybrid is expected to feature the same self-charging hybrid setup that debuted in the new Crosstrek Hybrid in Japan in October 2024. This series-parallel system intelligently switches between the engine and electric motor as the power source, depending on driving conditions.
Powertrain Configuration
The setup combines a 2.5-liter horizontally opposed four-cylinder engine, delivering 158 horsepower (118 kW/160 PS), with two electric motors. The first, referred to by Subaru as a traction motor, contributes an additional 118 horsepower (88 kW/120 PS) to drive the wheels, while the second functions as a generator. Powering the electric drive is a modest 1.1 kWh lithium-ion battery pack. While it won’t provide much EV-only range, it should boost fuel efficiency.
Subaru leveraged Toyota’s expertise in hybrid vehicles to develop the new powertrain as part of their collaboration. The automaker claims the new system offers a 20% improvement in fuel efficiency over Subaru’s existing e-Boxer hybrid setup, which was available in Japan, Europe, and other markets, but never offered in the US.
When it comes to visual changes, don’t hold your breath. Subaru has unveiled a hybrid-specific badge that’s expected to adorn the tailgate of the electrified Forester, but beyond that, earlier spy shots hint at a design nearly indistinguishable from the standard internal combustion engine (ICE) model. It’s classic Subaru—favoring subtlety over flashiness.
While the exact debut date for the Forester Hybrid remains unannounced, as Car&Driver discovered, Subaru is already accepting applications of interest from prospective buyers in the States on its website. Here’s what the automaker says:
“In mid-2025, the versatile, capable Forester will reach a new level of fuel efficiency and technology with the 2025 Subaru Forester Hybrid SUV. Combining the all-weather capability of legendary Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive with a hybrid drivetrain, the Forester Hybrid delivers smart value in a rugged, go-anywhere package. You’ll enjoy all the adventurous features drivers love about the Forester plus even more efficiency and lower emissions in the all-new 2025 Forester Hybrid.”
As for pricing, the standard 2025 Forester starts at $29,695, plus a $1,420 delivery fee, bringing the total to $31,115 before taxes. The hybrid version will surely start at a higher price, though the exact amount will depend on whether Subaru offers it with the base model or higher trims like the Premium.
