Subaru prices new-gen Forester range

SUBARU Australia has announced pricing and specification for its sixth generation Forester Medium SUV that now includes seven highly specified variants: four petrol-only, and three hybrids, the latter a Strong Hybrid replacing the previous mild-hybrid set-up.

The newbie is available to order immediately for deliveries expected to start in July priced from $43,490 up to $55,990 excluding on-road costs; but the MY25 schedule reveals a price rise from the previous generation Forester that listed from $38,690 up to $50,140.

The semi-rugged AWD newcomer arrives complete with 220mm ground clearance, standard X-Mode, enhanced suspension tuning and new dual-pinion steering for improved precision and response.

Subaru says it is “purpose-built to tackle Australian roads and terrain with confidence” and is equipped with advanced safety and the latest infotainment tech’ standard across the range.

The new Forester will compete in the biggest new car segment against Australia’s top selling passenger car, Toyota’s RAV4 and the likes of Honda CR-V, Hyundai Tucson, Kia Sportage, Mazda CX-5, Mitsubishi Outlander and Nissan X-Trail, not forgetting a rash of Chinese offerings and middling European brands.

Of great interest is what Subaru refers to as the next-generation, strong and more efficient Hybrid e-Boxer system (not PHEV) that packs more punch than the earlier 2.0-litre hybrid now with 145kW of combined power representing a 31.8 per cent boost over the outgoing version with instant torque and according to Subaru, over 1000km of range.

The Hybrid e-Boxer uses a planetary gear set transmission instead of a CVT as per petrol models and is a “pivotal step” in Subaru’s electrification program comprising an Atkinson/Miller cycle 2.5-litre Boxer engine with a 90kW electric motor and 1.1kWh battery to deliver what Subaru says is a smoother, quieter and more responsive driving experience.

Instant torque in hybrid variants is said to further enhance grip and low-speed control.

The carried over 2.5 petrol powertrain is good for 136kW/247Nm output.

Fuel consumption figures quoted are 7.9 litres/100km for ICE variants and 6.2L/100km for the heavier HEVs, while towing capacities are 1800kg (braked) for the petrols and 1200kg (braked) for the hybrids.

Subaru Australia says the next-generation Forester is the strongest, smartest and most capable iteration yet “re-engineered to deliver greater everyday usability, enhanced efficiency, and even more confidence on and off the road.”

The model walk features four petrol-only variants: Forester AWD, AWD Premium, AWD Sport and AWD Touring and three powered by Subaru’s most advanced hybrid powertrain yet: Forester AWD Hybrid, AWD Hybrid Sport and AWD Hybrid Touring.

Subaru says the entire line-up is re-engineered inside and out and includes more features as standard… range-wide resulting in a significant boost in spec’ even to the entry Forester AWD over the outgoing 2.5i AWD.

As anticipated, all variants utilise Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive that delivers constant traction to all four wheels for all-weather control – an always-on system that shifts power to where it’s needed most. Two transmissions are used: an eight step CVT in the petrols and a planetary-gear-set-based system in the hybrids called a TH2B Hybrid Transaxle.

Inside is remodelled to elevate comfort, connectivity and cabin refinement with desirable features across the range including: 11.6-inch high-definition infotainment touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Qi wireless smartphone charging pad, 12.3-inch digital driver display (on select hybrid variants), 360-degree Surround View Monitor, uprated cabin insulation and vibration damping for reduced interior noise and ergonomic seating for more comfort.

Headlining the vehicle’s safety is Subaru’s latest-generation EyeSight Driver Assist technology that is now standard across all models featuring a new wide-angle monocular camera offering a wider field of view.

Also in the safety package is a new emergency driving stop system, Subaru Vision Assist, a driver monitoring system and nine airbags.

As a reference point the new base model Forester AWD’s key tech specs are: a horizontally-opposed (boxer) 2.5-litre four-cylinder, petrol engine, Lineartronic CVT with eight-speed manual mode, symmetrical all-wheel drive, auto stop start, smart key and push-start ignition, Subaru Intelligent Drive (SI-Drive) with two modes (Intelligent and Sport), X-Mode with hill decent control, Vehicle Dynamics Control System (VDC) and tyre pressure monitoring system.

On the outside the entry level model runs 18-inch gloss finish alloy wheels in a new design, dusk-sensing self-levelling LED headlights with auto off, door mirrors – heated and power-folding, front cornering lamps, front and rear wipers with front de-icer, front LED fog lights, rear LED fog light, FORESTER embossed on rear garnish, roof rails, rear spoiler, and steering responsive headlights.

The new entry model is further equipped with cloth seat trim, dual-zone climate control with rear vents, a leather steering wheel with silver stitching, auto-dimming rear-view mirror, heated front seats, one-touch electronic folding rear seats, 60:40 split folding rear seats, and a comprehensive array of entertainment, technology and safety features (but with no native sat nav or driver monitoring system).

As expected, higher spec’ Forester variants have superior equipment and more features.

“The next-generation Forester is stronger, smarter and more capable than ever – and now with Subaru’s most advanced hybrid technology, it’s also more efficient,” said Subaru Australia general manager Scott Lawrence.

“Whether you’re chasing everyday comfort, off-road adventure or driving confidence, Forester delivers in all areas. Every variant brings Subaru’s signature performance, safety and practicality to the fore.

“We are proud to introduce this exceptional SUV to Australian customers,” he concluded.

2025 Subaru Forester AWD pricing*:

*Pricing excludes on-road costs.