Auto Guide
2026 Subaru Forester Hybrid
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Review and specifications

2026 Subaru Forester Hybrid

The Forester, a perennial high-scorer in CR's compact SUV ratings, is available for the first time in hybrid form. An electric motor backed by a lithium-ion battery augments its 2.5-liter flat-four engine. That hybrid powertrain increases horsepower to 194 compared with 180 for the regular Forester. We measured 34 mpg overall, a good bump from the 29 mpg overall that we recorded on the regular Forester we tested. The Hybrid retains all of the Forester's key virtues, including a comfortable ride, excellent outward visibility, and a roomy rear seat. But the Hybrid is quieter than the regular model, and benefits from a more pleasant initial takeoff, thanks to the electric drive. It can also propel itself on electric power alone at low speeds. Unlike the conventionally-powered Forester, all hybrid trims come standard with BSW and RCTW.

Market value
$36,595
Fuel
Hybrid
Transmission
Automatic
Seats
5
View listings Find dealers
Model year 2026
Owner rating Not rated
Reliability 4/5
Data updated December 17, 2025

At a glance

Model data

Overview

Powertrain
Hybrid
Body style
4-door SUV
Drive type
AWD
Transmission
CVT
Category
Compact SUVs
Generation began
2025

Pricing

Original MSRP range
$36,595 - $43,295

Ratings

Road test score
94/100
Reliability
4/5
Expert recommendation
Recommended

Fuel economy

EPA city
35 MPG
EPA highway
34 MPG
EPA combined
35 MPG
Tested city
26 MPG
Tested highway
42 MPG
Tested overall
34 MPG
Annual fuel cost
$1,150
Cruising range
560 miles

Road tests

0-30 mph
3.3 sec
0-60 mph
9.3 sec
60-0 mph braking
137 ft
Avoidance speed
53 mph
Test status
Test Completed

Dimensions

Length
183 in
Width
72 in
Height
68 in
Wheelbase
105 in
Weight
3,885 lb
Maximum load
900 lb
Towing capacity
1,500 lb

Interior

Seating
5 people
Front head room
4 in
Front leg room
43.5 in
Rear head room
2.5 in
Rear leg room
31.5 in
Cargo volume
38.5 cu ft
Luggage
4+0+0

Environmental impact

Air pollution score
7/10
Greenhouse gas score
7/10
SmartWay
No

Brand context

About Subaru

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.

Vehicle ID: 38958 First published: December 4, 2025 Updated: December 17, 2025

Values may vary by trim, options, location, and market conditions.

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