2025 Subaru Forester

Subaru is known for no-nonsense SUVs with standard full-time all-wheel drive. Its cars frequently rank near the top of Consumer Reports’ Owner Satisfaction and reliability ratings, making some used Subarus a good choice. Along with all-wheel drive, Subarus are known for using a “boxer” style four-cylinder engine with opposing pistons that move horizontally. The design reduces vibration and gives the vehicle a low center of gravity. No Subaru would be considered luxurious, but most have options like heated seats and leather upholstery. Unfortunately, blind spot warning (BSW) and rear cross traffic warning (RCTW) are often optional, so buyers must pay extra for important safety features. Subaru hasn’t offered a hybrid since the plug-in hybrid Crosstrek was discontinued in 2024. The Solterra, a pure EV based on the Toyota bZ4x, charges slowly and has short range. Popular sports cars like the WRX and BR-Z show the brand’s wilder side.

The redesigned 2025 Subaru Forester incorporates a host of new and improved safety technology onto a stiffened chassis that the automaker says helps achieving a quieter ride. Although the aesthetic presence of the new model skews more brawny--thanks to a beefier grille, more squinty headlamps, pronounced and plastic-cladded fender arches, and distinct haunches--it's no surprise that cosmetic changes are relatively minor. The Forester has been a winner for Subaru, providing owners with standard all-wheel drive, big, high-visibility windows, and easy utility. Now the automaker has enhanced its standard active safety features with pedestrian and cyclist detection and a rear seat occupant alert system, and offers driver monitoring and emergency steering as optional equipment. A hybrid version will be offered later.