2025 Subaru Forester Review Roundup – All Australian Reviews in One

The 2025 Subaru Forester receives a significant update, offering improved technology, refined styling, and enhanced safety features. While it maintains its reputation for practicality and all-wheel drive capability, some may find the carryover powertrain lacking compared to turbocharged rivals.

This score is based on the rating provided by CarExpert.

Quick Facts

• Price Range: $37,890 - $50,290 (plus on-road costs)
• ANCAP Safety Rating: Not yet rated (previous model had 5 stars)
• Fuel Efficiency (Claimed): 7.2L/100km
• Engine: 2.5L naturally aspirated four-cylinder petrol

Key Specifications

Performance and Driving Experience

• Carryover 2.5L engine provides adequate performance
• Smooth and refined CVT transmission
• Comfortable ride quality, especially on rough roads
• Improved noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) levels
• Competent off-road capability with X-Mode system

Expert Insight: "The Forester's 2.5-litre engine is adequate for most situations, but it can feel a bit underpowered when fully loaded or when trying to overtake at highway speeds." - CarExpert

Fuel Efficiency

• Claimed Combined Consumption: 7.2L/100km
• Real-World Tested Consumption: Not specified in the review
• 63L fuel tank capacity

Value for Money

• Competitive pricing in the mid-size SUV segment
• Well-equipped with modern technology and safety features
• Five-year/unlimited-kilometre warranty
• Capped-price servicing available

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Improved technology and infotainment
• Spacious and practical interior
• Enhanced safety features
• Capable all-wheel drive system

Cons:

• Carryover engine may feel underpowered for some
• No hybrid option available at launch
• Some cheap interior materials noted
• Styling may be too conservative for some buyers

Expert Review Summary

CarExpert

Rating: 7.9/10

• Pros:
  • Improved technology
  • Spacious interior
  • Enhanced safety features
• Cons:
  • Carryover powertrain
  • Some cheap interior materials

Summary: "The 2025 Subaru Forester builds on the strengths of its predecessor with improved technology and refinement, though the carryover powertrain may disappoint those looking for more performance." Read the full review

CarExplore's Take on the 2025 Subaru Forester

The 2025 Subaru Forester represents a solid evolution of the popular mid-size SUV, offering improvements in technology, safety, and refinement while maintaining its core strengths of practicality and all-wheel drive capability. The updated exterior styling, while subtle, gives the Forester a more modern appearance.

Inside, the Forester impresses with its spacious and practical interior, now featuring improved technology including a larger touchscreen infotainment system and digital instrument cluster on higher trims. The enhanced EyeSight safety system adds new features and improved functionality.

However, potential buyers should be aware that the powertrain remains largely unchanged. While adequate for most situations, the 2.5L engine may feel underpowered compared to turbocharged rivals, especially when fully loaded or during highway overtaking. The lack of a hybrid option at launch may also disappoint some buyers looking for improved fuel efficiency.

Ideal For: Families and outdoor enthusiasts seeking a practical, reliable, and capable all-wheel drive SUV with a focus on safety and technology.

Consider Alternatives If: You prioritize performance, want a hybrid powertrain, or prefer more distinctive styling in your mid-size SUV.In conclusion, the 2025 Subaru Forester offers a well-rounded package that builds on its predecessor's strengths. While it may not lead the class in performance or efficiency, its combination of practicality, safety, and all-weather capability continue to make it a strong contender in the competitive mid-size SUV segment.

Frequently Asked Questions