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The 2025 Subaru Forester retains its practical charm and robust all-wheel-drive character, now with a dash of revived STI energy.
While the STI Sport variant ups the visual and suspension ante, the lack of extra performance disappoints some enthusiasts. With plenty of interior space and Subaru’s dependable boxer engine at the core, it remains a comfortable, family-friendly SUV.
However, the added STI enhancements may not be enough to justify the badge for those expecting a genuine turbocharged throwback.
Pros & Cons
- Pros
- High-quality interior with distinctive STI touches
- Competent AWD handling and stable suspension tune
- Roomy cabin and cargo space for families or gear
- Cons
- STI label feels superficial without turbo punch
- CVT robs some driving excitement
- Some road noise and firm ride over rough surfaces
Specs
- Body Style: Compact AWD SUV
- Platform: Subaru Global Platform (SGP)
- Launched: 2018 (Current Generation)
- Local Arrival: 2025 update
- Engine(s): 2.5-litre boxer-four (136kW/239Nm)
Pricing Information
Before on-road costs
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Find me a dealInterior & Features
Inside, the STI Sport highlights a black-and-red theme courtesy of two-tone Nappa leather upholstery, plus discreet STI badging. Beyond that, it’s classic Forester: airy seating for five, an intuitive layout of buttons and knobs, and a practical cargo area.
Up front is an 8.0-inch touchscreen with wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, while an additional multi-function display helps manage off-road or safety readouts. Rear passengers benefit from notable headroom and easy in-and-out access.
Engine & Fuel Economy
The familiar 2.5-litre naturally aspirated boxer delivers 136kW and 239Nm via a CVT to Subaru’s trademark AWD system. Official consumption is 7.4L/100km, though real-world figures typically hover around the same number in mixed driving.
Acceleration is adequate for suburban and highway merges, but the CVT can keep revs higher under load. At least the standard AWD helps the Forester maintain composure on loose or slippery roads.
Image Gallery
2025 Subaru Forester
Expert Media Reviews
Score: 7.9 / 10
"Subaru has dusted off the STI badge, but it’s not the special throwback fans expected. Still, the Forester remains a great SUV."
Link: Read review
Score: 7.5 / 10
"The Forester is always comfortable and roomy, but this new STI version leaves enthusiasts wanting more proper STI magic."
Link: Read review
Score: 7.5 / 10
"A welcome dash of style and sharper dynamics, but lacking turbo punch. Fans will need to manage expectations."
Link: Read review
Safety Rating
The Subaru Forester achieved a five-star ANCAP safety rating in 2019 (valid until December 2025). Notable safety equipment includes AEB with pedestrian and cyclist detection, blind-spot monitoring, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control.
Subaru’s EyeSight driver assist is also on board, complementing the brand’s symmetrical AWD for secure handling in varied conditions.
| Adult Occupant Protection | 94% (36.0/38) |
| Child Occupant Protection | 86% (42.6/49) |
| Vulnerable Road User Protection | 80% (38.5/48) |
| Safety Assist | 78% (10.2/13) |
Full details at ANCAP.
ECO Rating
No Green NCAP rating has been published for the Forester. We’ll provide updates if testing occurs in the future.
Reliability Rating
Subaru has issued three recent recalls for the Forester, mainly addressing drivetrain or structural fastener issues.
User ratings average around 4.0 out of 5 across 355 reviews, with 76% positive sentiment. Subaru provides a five-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty, giving added peace of mind.
Cost of Ownership
Subaru’s capped-price servicing covers five years or 62,500km, at 12,500km intervals.
The total cost is $2674.64, averaging roughly $534.93 per year.
Fuel consumption is officially 7.4L/100km, and real-world usage typically matches that figure in mixed driving.
Roadside assistance is provided for 12 months from purchase, renewable at each service.
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Conclusion
The 2025 Subaru Forester STI Sport sprinkles a familiar badge onto an already capable SUV. Fans seeking old-school STI performance may be underwhelmed by the carryover engine, but the revised suspension and splash of cabin flair do inject some extra interest.
Ultimately, the Forester remains an all-rounder with robust AWD, decent power, and impressive interior space. The STI embellishments are nice, but don’t expect a turbo surge or a transformation reminiscent of Subaru’s heyday. For those chasing day-to-day versatility with just a nod to that iconic badge, this might do the trick.
Aize Carter
