Subaru enthusiasts, buckle up! The much-anticipated Forester Hybrid is gearing up for a mid-2025 release, signaling Subaru’s bold re-entry into the hybrid market.
The Forester Hybrid was teased last year at the LA Auto Show by Subaru of America President Jeff Walters, who hinted at its arrival roughly a year after the gas-only model. Now, Subaru’s website confirms what we’ve been waiting for: the hybrid SUV will roll out for the 2025 model year, likely around June or July.
This timing is crucial, avoiding the overlap with the 2026 models and marking a significant moment since Subaru discontinued the hybrid version of the Crosstrek in 2023.
While Subaru has kept the powertrain details under wraps, one thing is clear – they’re teaming up with Toyota for the electric components. This collaboration isn’t new; the Subaru Solterra and Toyota bZ4X share the same soul beneath their different skins. The Forester Hybrid might adopt the powertrain seen in the Japan-only Crosstrek Hybrid, featuring a 2.5-liter boxer-four engine paired with a single electric motor for some electric-only driving.
Current gas-only Foresters churn out 180 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque, but with the hybrid setup, we’re looking at a potential power boost. Could this be the return of the muscle we felt with the Forester XT? Subaru seems to be betting big on efficiency here, yet they assure us that the all-wheel-drive system, a Subaru staple, isn’t going anywhere.
This hybrid isn’t just another car; it’s Subaru’s statement on sustainability, performance, and the future of driving. Get ready for a ride that blends Subaru’s rugged reliability with the eco-friendliness of hybrid technology.
