Latest news with #Hybrid
The Advertiser
4 days ago
- Automotive
- The Advertiser
Why Chery Australia is bringing its Toyota Kluger rival with only PHEV power
Chery Australia has just launched Super Hybrid plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variants of its previously petrol-only Tiggo 7 and Tiggo 8 SUVs, and now the next model in the lineup is set to go without petrol options altogether. The Chery Tiggo 9 Super Hybrid is due in Australia in the third quarter (July to September) of 2025, and it has now been confirmed that it will only be available in this PHEV guise – a turbocharged 2.0-litre petrol powertrain, available overseas, won't be offered here at launch. Speaking at the local launch for the Tiggo 7 and Tiggo 8 Super Hybrids, Chery Australia chief operating officer Lucas Harris confirmed to CarExpert that the brand will "only introduce the Super Hybrid variant of Tiggo 9" and outlined several reasons why. "Frankly, I think it's a better car. We, as a global business, are much more focused on moving towards new energy, which is obviously Super Hybrid and BEV (battery-electric vehicle)," he said. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new car. Click here to get a great deal. "The Super Hybrid Tiggo 9 performance is exceptional, I think we'll be able to price it – like our other products – very competitively, and to be able to deliver great value. "I'm just not sure that in our lineup, if you look at all the way from Tiggo 4 right through to Tiggo 9, it doesn't make sense in that lineup to introduce an [internal combustion] Tiggo 9." Chery Australia hasn't confirmed performance, range or economy figures, but has confirmed the local Tiggo 9 Super Hybrid will use a turbo 1.5-litre engine mated with a three-speed Dedicated Hybrid Transmission, like the Tiggo 7 and Tiggo 8. For context, the petrol powertrain available overseas features a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine, paired with an eight-speed Aisin automatic transmission, with drive sent to all four wheels. "If we were to introduce [the petrol] hypothetically, it probably would end up being priced very similarly to a Tiggo 8 plug-in hybrid, for example," Mr Harris told CarExpert. "In which case, it doesn't make much sense, and the driving experience in those Super Hybrids is just so much better than any ICE vehicle. I just don't think it would add any depth to the product range by offering too many models." Pricing for the Tiggo 9 has yet to be confirmed, though the smaller Tiggo 8 Super Hybrid is priced from $45,990 to $49,990 drive-away. The Tiggo 9 Super Hybrid is therefore expected to be more expensive, likely around $55,000, although it could still significantly undercut rivals such as the Mazda CX-80 P50e (priced from $76,245 before on-roads) and the Kia Sorento PHEV (from $84,660 before on-roads). MORE: Chery taking on Kia Sorento, Mazda CX-80 with new plug-in hybrid large SUV MORE: Everything Chery Content originally sourced from: Chery Australia has just launched Super Hybrid plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variants of its previously petrol-only Tiggo 7 and Tiggo 8 SUVs, and now the next model in the lineup is set to go without petrol options altogether. The Chery Tiggo 9 Super Hybrid is due in Australia in the third quarter (July to September) of 2025, and it has now been confirmed that it will only be available in this PHEV guise – a turbocharged 2.0-litre petrol powertrain, available overseas, won't be offered here at launch. Speaking at the local launch for the Tiggo 7 and Tiggo 8 Super Hybrids, Chery Australia chief operating officer Lucas Harris confirmed to CarExpert that the brand will "only introduce the Super Hybrid variant of Tiggo 9" and outlined several reasons why. "Frankly, I think it's a better car. We, as a global business, are much more focused on moving towards new energy, which is obviously Super Hybrid and BEV (battery-electric vehicle)," he said. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new car. Click here to get a great deal. "The Super Hybrid Tiggo 9 performance is exceptional, I think we'll be able to price it – like our other products – very competitively, and to be able to deliver great value. "I'm just not sure that in our lineup, if you look at all the way from Tiggo 4 right through to Tiggo 9, it doesn't make sense in that lineup to introduce an [internal combustion] Tiggo 9." Chery Australia hasn't confirmed performance, range or economy figures, but has confirmed the local Tiggo 9 Super Hybrid will use a turbo 1.5-litre engine mated with a three-speed Dedicated Hybrid Transmission, like the Tiggo 7 and Tiggo 8. For context, the petrol powertrain available overseas features a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine, paired with an eight-speed Aisin automatic transmission, with drive sent to all four wheels. "If we were to introduce [the petrol] hypothetically, it probably would end up being priced very similarly to a Tiggo 8 plug-in hybrid, for example," Mr Harris told CarExpert. "In which case, it doesn't make much sense, and the driving experience in those Super Hybrids is just so much better than any ICE vehicle. I just don't think it would add any depth to the product range by offering too many models." Pricing for the Tiggo 9 has yet to be confirmed, though the smaller Tiggo 8 Super Hybrid is priced from $45,990 to $49,990 drive-away. The Tiggo 9 Super Hybrid is therefore expected to be more expensive, likely around $55,000, although it could still significantly undercut rivals such as the Mazda CX-80 P50e (priced from $76,245 before on-roads) and the Kia Sorento PHEV (from $84,660 before on-roads). MORE: Chery taking on Kia Sorento, Mazda CX-80 with new plug-in hybrid large SUV MORE: Everything Chery Content originally sourced from: Chery Australia has just launched Super Hybrid plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variants of its previously petrol-only Tiggo 7 and Tiggo 8 SUVs, and now the next model in the lineup is set to go without petrol options altogether. The Chery Tiggo 9 Super Hybrid is due in Australia in the third quarter (July to September) of 2025, and it has now been confirmed that it will only be available in this PHEV guise – a turbocharged 2.0-litre petrol powertrain, available overseas, won't be offered here at launch. Speaking at the local launch for the Tiggo 7 and Tiggo 8 Super Hybrids, Chery Australia chief operating officer Lucas Harris confirmed to CarExpert that the brand will "only introduce the Super Hybrid variant of Tiggo 9" and outlined several reasons why. "Frankly, I think it's a better car. We, as a global business, are much more focused on moving towards new energy, which is obviously Super Hybrid and BEV (battery-electric vehicle)," he said. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new car. Click here to get a great deal. "The Super Hybrid Tiggo 9 performance is exceptional, I think we'll be able to price it – like our other products – very competitively, and to be able to deliver great value. "I'm just not sure that in our lineup, if you look at all the way from Tiggo 4 right through to Tiggo 9, it doesn't make sense in that lineup to introduce an [internal combustion] Tiggo 9." Chery Australia hasn't confirmed performance, range or economy figures, but has confirmed the local Tiggo 9 Super Hybrid will use a turbo 1.5-litre engine mated with a three-speed Dedicated Hybrid Transmission, like the Tiggo 7 and Tiggo 8. For context, the petrol powertrain available overseas features a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine, paired with an eight-speed Aisin automatic transmission, with drive sent to all four wheels. "If we were to introduce [the petrol] hypothetically, it probably would end up being priced very similarly to a Tiggo 8 plug-in hybrid, for example," Mr Harris told CarExpert. "In which case, it doesn't make much sense, and the driving experience in those Super Hybrids is just so much better than any ICE vehicle. I just don't think it would add any depth to the product range by offering too many models." Pricing for the Tiggo 9 has yet to be confirmed, though the smaller Tiggo 8 Super Hybrid is priced from $45,990 to $49,990 drive-away. The Tiggo 9 Super Hybrid is therefore expected to be more expensive, likely around $55,000, although it could still significantly undercut rivals such as the Mazda CX-80 P50e (priced from $76,245 before on-roads) and the Kia Sorento PHEV (from $84,660 before on-roads). MORE: Chery taking on Kia Sorento, Mazda CX-80 with new plug-in hybrid large SUV MORE: Everything Chery Content originally sourced from: Chery Australia has just launched Super Hybrid plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variants of its previously petrol-only Tiggo 7 and Tiggo 8 SUVs, and now the next model in the lineup is set to go without petrol options altogether. The Chery Tiggo 9 Super Hybrid is due in Australia in the third quarter (July to September) of 2025, and it has now been confirmed that it will only be available in this PHEV guise – a turbocharged 2.0-litre petrol powertrain, available overseas, won't be offered here at launch. Speaking at the local launch for the Tiggo 7 and Tiggo 8 Super Hybrids, Chery Australia chief operating officer Lucas Harris confirmed to CarExpert that the brand will "only introduce the Super Hybrid variant of Tiggo 9" and outlined several reasons why. "Frankly, I think it's a better car. We, as a global business, are much more focused on moving towards new energy, which is obviously Super Hybrid and BEV (battery-electric vehicle)," he said. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new car. Click here to get a great deal. "The Super Hybrid Tiggo 9 performance is exceptional, I think we'll be able to price it – like our other products – very competitively, and to be able to deliver great value. "I'm just not sure that in our lineup, if you look at all the way from Tiggo 4 right through to Tiggo 9, it doesn't make sense in that lineup to introduce an [internal combustion] Tiggo 9." Chery Australia hasn't confirmed performance, range or economy figures, but has confirmed the local Tiggo 9 Super Hybrid will use a turbo 1.5-litre engine mated with a three-speed Dedicated Hybrid Transmission, like the Tiggo 7 and Tiggo 8. For context, the petrol powertrain available overseas features a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine, paired with an eight-speed Aisin automatic transmission, with drive sent to all four wheels. "If we were to introduce [the petrol] hypothetically, it probably would end up being priced very similarly to a Tiggo 8 plug-in hybrid, for example," Mr Harris told CarExpert. "In which case, it doesn't make much sense, and the driving experience in those Super Hybrids is just so much better than any ICE vehicle. I just don't think it would add any depth to the product range by offering too many models." Pricing for the Tiggo 9 has yet to be confirmed, though the smaller Tiggo 8 Super Hybrid is priced from $45,990 to $49,990 drive-away. The Tiggo 9 Super Hybrid is therefore expected to be more expensive, likely around $55,000, although it could still significantly undercut rivals such as the Mazda CX-80 P50e (priced from $76,245 before on-roads) and the Kia Sorento PHEV (from $84,660 before on-roads). MORE: Chery taking on Kia Sorento, Mazda CX-80 with new plug-in hybrid large SUV MORE: Everything Chery Content originally sourced from:
Forbes
5 days ago
- Business
- Forbes
31 Top Companies Hiring Remotely In 2025
Remote work grew by 8% in the past quarter Remote work isn't over. In the last quarter alone, remote job listings grew by 8% on the FlexJobs database. And now, according to new data from FlexJobs analysts, there are at least 75 employers who have consistently hired fully remotely or hybrid remote within the first half of 2025. This article will introduce you to 31 of them. These employers have been included in the top 75 companies hiring for remote jobs because they have "had the highest number of remote job openings so far in 2025, and they are considered strong prospects for job seekers heading into the second half of the year," FlexJobs says in its report. Which Companies Are Hiring Fully Remote Jobs Right Now? The 31 employers listed below are ranked in order of the largest number of remote roles they've hired for recently: What Are The Most Popular Remote Jobs? FlexJobs data reveals that the top 10 most popular remote jobs (the ones with the greatest hiring activity so far this year) include: How Do You Land A Remote Job Fast? To find a remote job relatively quickly and increase your chances of getting hired sooner, follow these tips: How Do I Find The Companies Hiring For Remote Jobs? Mass-applying is not a strategy; you're just doing the least and expecting results It's time to rebuild your career and create the flexibility and autonomy you've always wanted. Start with creating a small list of your target ideal employers; then study them, adapt your application and resume to their culture and what they're looking for, and strategically network with and engage them. This article just gave you 31 chances to never have to return to an office cubicle again.
Daily Mail
23-07-2025
- Automotive
- Daily Mail
I tested the car built for iPad babies... here's how it sparked a parenting war
I spent a week in a high-tech minivan with Netflix included. Each time friends got in the back seat, it sparked a parenting debate over whether a built-in touchscreen is genius or a gateway to iPad addiction. I tested the surprisingly high-rolling 2025 Kia Carnival Hybrid SX Prestige, a $59,000 minivan equipped with a rear-seat entertainment package. That add-on includes two power-operated captain's chairs, complete with leg rests, that face matching 14.6-inch digital displays. Passengers in the second row can access streaming services, mirror their phones, play video games, and pair Bluetooth headphones for a personal theater experience — effectively spelling the end for my favorite childhood road trip classics like Mad Libs, The Alphabet Game, and 'I spy with my little eye...' 'This would be so nice on long trips just to shush my children,' a friend with a five and a and three-year-old, who shall remain unnamed, told me while riding in the car. But not everyone was sold. 'I don't want to encourage my children to be iPad babies,' another friend and could-be parent said. The entertainment package on the Carnival Hybrid is a parenting Rorschach test, separating the digital skeptics from the tech optimists. But while the backseat screens captured the topline conversations, the rest of the car kept the plot moving. Kia has built a highly competent minivan. Minivan with muscle? Kia has come a long way from its humble beginnings as a budget-oriented brand. For years, the Korean company built simple cars and slapped them with robust, 10-year, 100,000-mile warranties. Now, the carmaker's contemporary Kia lineup has a distinctive, modern design flair, and the Carnival is a great example. An upright, SUV-inspired shape and truck-like grille give the front a muscular edge that is not often found in the minivan segment. That ruggedness falls apart on the side and back, where modern design aesthetics pull the van in different directions. The giant rear window and understated liftgate is a departure from the rest of the van's muscular vibe Sharp LED accents — including a jagged headlight design, and a full-width rear light bar — complete the look. Aside from its somewhat disjointed design, the van at least attempts to be interesting. In this segment, that is worth noting. Hybrid power doesn't drag Much like the gas-sipping, surprisingly agile hybrids from Kia's Asian carmaking counterparts (like Toyota and Honda), the Carnival Hybrid's powertrain felt composed in city driving. Kia's hybrid powerhouse is a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a 72-horsepower electric motor. The hybrid system delivers a combined 242 horsepower that won't smoke a sports car off the line, but feels plenty powerful to get to highway speeds on a short ramp. And it builds that power efficiently. According to the EPA, the Carnival Hybrid achieves a combined fuel economy of 33 mpg, with 34 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway. I averaged about 35 mpg in mostly stop-and-go New York driving, which is excellent for something that can haul seven passengers and a Costco haul. The Carnival has a camera package that allows parents to view the back of the car through the infotainment system Tech gadgets, galore Kia didn't forget about entertaining the parents. The van also features technology for helicopter parents among us. In the top trim, the first row is equipped with dual 12.3-inch displays that span the dash. Inside those screens, drivers can access wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, as well as voice-activated controls, a speaker for the back row, and rear-seat monitoring cameras. Underneath the screens are a series of haptic and digital buttons that control the climate. Kia's digital climate controls have always been well-organized. Normally, I'm wildly skeptical of cars forgoing buttons for temperature controls, but this layout is easy to use. Look at the comment section on any story about digital buttons, and you will find a slew of people who disagree. To each their own. The van's tech includes a series of dials and digital controls underneath the infotainment system Value: Is it worth it? The base Carnival Hybrid LXS starts at $40,990, while the non-hybrid model kicks off at $36,990. My top-trim SX Prestige tester, decked out with optional wheels, special paint, a second-row sunroof, and the all-important screen package, totaled just over $59,000. That's serious money, but it's also great value in a segment with bloated and ballooning prices. Toyota's Sienna starts at $44,295 (it is only available as a hybrid for 2025), while Honda's Odyssey requires a minimum of $42,220 and doesn't offer a hybrid option. Final thoughts Many of my formative years were spent in the backseat of a car, watching vehicles pass by and memorizing their makes and models. Who would I have become had my parents swapped the entertainment of my imagination with the relational guidance of Bluey and Peppa Pig? Who knows. While (unintentionally) highlighting divides in our digital appetites, the Carnival Hybrid also makes a compelling case for the future of American family road trips. Many owners will just have to remember to pack the Wi-Fi hotspot.
Malaysian Reserve
22-07-2025
- Health
- Malaysian Reserve
Manali A. Shendrikar, MD, MPH Is the Latest Physician from Saint John's Physician Partners to Offer the Hybrid Choice™ Concierge Program from Concierge Choice Physicians
Leading not-for-profit healthcare organization in greater Los Angeles allows patients to choose a closer doctor-patient relationship ROCKVILLE CENTRE, N.Y., July 22, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Concierge Choice Physicians (CCP), the nation's leading full-service concierge medical service provider, announces today that Manali A. Shendrikar, MD, MPH, from Santa Monica Family Physicians, is the newest doctor in Saint John's Physician Partners (SJPP), part of Providence, to now offer CCP's Hybrid Choice™ program. This enhanced practice experience provides patients with greater connectivity and support from their chosen doctor. Unlike conventional concierge programs, CCP's Hybrid Choice program is a unique style of membership medicine that works well in large healthcare organizations like SJPP. It allows physicians to provide the highest level of service to just those patients who want it, while continuing to see and care for all of the patients in their network. Patients are able to choose the practice experience they want. No patients are ever turned away, and the physicians continue to accept insurance and Medicare. The program is also being used to improve physician satisfaction and support medical practices with much-needed additional revenue. A portion of the revenue generated from membership fees supports St. John's charitable mission to serve all, especially the most poor and vulnerable. 'I want to be the go-to doctor for my patients—but that's not something that can be promised in such a demanding healthcare marketplace,' says Dr. Shendrikar. 'This program allows patients to secure that kind of connectivity. It's a great option for many patients who feel they would benefit from the peace of mind that comes from knowing they will always see me at appointments. I'm looking forward to practicing in this more personalized style.' Patients who enroll in Dr. Shendrikar's Hybrid Choice program pay an annual fee that allows her to provide services that go beyond what is typically offered in a traditional practice, including: more time together; a greater focus on wellness with a comprehensive annual exam and specialty lab work; relaxed, easy-to-secure appointments that generally start on time; convenient and direct ways to communicate with Dr. Shendrikar both at the office and after hours; enhanced medical advocacy; and coordination with other healthcare professionals. Dr. Manali A. Shendrikar practices at Santa Monica Family Physicians, 2021 Santa Monica Blvd., Suite 625E, Santa Monica, CA 90404. Her Hybrid Choice program is available for an annual membership fee. For more information on the program or to join, contact Concierge Choice Physicians at (877) 888-5590 or email members@ About Manali A. Shendrikar, MD, MPHDr. Shendrikar is an experienced, board-certified family medicine physician. She graduated medical school at the University of Texas, Health Science Center at San Antonio, TX and completed her residency at Santa Monica-UCLA Medical Center, in Santa Monica, CA. About Concierge Choice Physicians (CCP)Dedicated to providing real options for patients and physicians, Concierge Choice Physicians™ is the largest private provider of the full range of concierge programs available today—Hybrid and FullFlex™. The company provides innovative, flexible and affordable models proven to work in medical practices of any size—from solo physicians to large medical practice corporations—both independent and affiliated with hospitals or health systems. Headquartered in Rockville Centre, NY, the company has worked with thousands of physicians in 35 states. For more information, please visit
Perth Now
21-07-2025
- Automotive
- Perth Now
2026 Subaru Forester review
After months of drip-fed information and pre-production test drives, the sixth-generation Subaru Forester has finally landed in Australia. 2026 Subaru Forester Credit: CarExpert While Subaru's Australasian media launch took place in New Zealand last week, early-bird Aussies who pre-ordered the new Forester have already been taking delivery of their vehicles for the best part of a month. On sale in North America since mid-2024, the Mk6 Forester was launched in Europe in October last year. That should have given us plenty of time to wrap our heads around the new Forester, but Subaru Australia had been coy about local details until recently. Full Australian pricing and specifications were only released around two months ago, which provided a long-awaited insight into exactly what the new model would bring here – lifting the fog on its new 'Strong Hybrid' powertrain in particular. What's all the fuss about, then? Well, the Strong Hybrid system pairs a significantly more powerful hybrid system with Subaru's signature boxer engine, promising enhanced performance and efficiency compared to the mild-hybrid system offered with the outgoing generation. It's a much-needed upgrade for Subaru's top-selling nameplate, as it brings it into the modern age with a hybrid powertrain that, at least on paper, can contend with segment heavy-hitters like the Toyota RAV4 and Hyundai Tucson. The remainder of its changes are largely cosmetic, including the new body, while its interior has been brought up to speed with other current Subaru models like the Impreza, Outback, and WRX. That said, those cabin layouts have barely changed over the past three or four years, but there's also an impressive list of standard equipment in the Forester even at the bottom of the range. On the other hand, the Forester's petrol powertrain has received minimal tweaks bar a slight torque bump. Elsewhere, the suspension and steering have been retuned, noise and vibration levels have been refined, and the automatic transmission now offers broader gear ratios for a more versatile driving experience. It's worth noting that although we drove Kiwi-spec examples of the new Forester, specifications are practically identical to those in Australia. Are the changes enough to keep the Forester a favourite, or has Subaru left too much on the table? Prices are up by nearly $5000 across the range, with the new Forester now starting at $43,490 before on-road costs. 2026 Subaru Forester Credit: CarExpert Of course, all Foresters retain Subaru's trdemark all-wheel drive system as standard. But for context, the RAV4 range starts at $42,260 before on-roads for the entry-level front-wheel drive hybrid GX – $870 less than the base Forester. That said, the cheapest all-wheel drive RAV4 is the GX eFour, which costs $45,260 before on-roads – $1770 more than the base Forester but offers hybrid tech. The cheapest Forester Hybrid costs $1230 more than the GX eFour. For reference, the outgoing Forester was priced from $38,690 before on-road costs for the base 2.5i, and $50,140 before on-roads for the flagship Hybrid S. To see how the Subaru Forester stacks up against its rivals, use our comparison tool It's better to think of the interior as an evolution rather than a revolution, but even that's a stretch. 2026 Subaru Forester Credit: CarExpert Yes, it's a progression from the previous generation, featuring a larger infotainment screen and generally cleaner construction, but it's hardly groundbreaking. As mentioned previously, this fundamental layout is practically identical to that of every other current Subaru, which means it lags behind the competition. That said, some buyers may prefer a familiar interior, particularly those who have bought Subarus in recent years. It may not be as flashy as an equivalent Hyundai or a Kia, but not everyone wants a screen-heavy, all-touch interior, and they seem to be the buyers Subaru has targeted with this interior. Headlining the new cabin is the brand's monolithic 11.6-inch portrait-style multimedia touchscreen, but it somehow feels better integrated in the Forester than it does in the WRX, for example. The taller, boxier proportions of the Forester's cabin contribute to this, and everything feels quite natural from the driver's seat. The screen itself is easy enough to navigate, helped by a series of shortcuts always available above the climate section. There are driver-assist functions here, but the main buttons are for vehicle settings and connectivity options, including wireless smartphone mirroring for the latter. 2026 Subaru Forester Credit: CarExpert 2026 Subaru Forester Credit: CarExpert ABOVE: Australian Forester Touring (left), overseas instrument cluster identical to Australian models (right). The design of the infotainment screen's graphics leaves a little to be desired, as it looks like a slight reskin of what featured on the previous generation. Its glassy bubble icons (which could be confused for an early prototype of Apple's Liquid Glass UI) and starry background aren't new, and they're a big part of why the cabin looks a little dated. The icons are large though, which means they're easy to see and prod when on the move. You also have two physical knobs on either side, as well as glossy black buttons for basic climate functions including temperature and demisters. We don't like that the rest of the climate system is embedded at the bottom of the screen's display. The 'buttons' here also look out of place compared to the design of everything above, and it's still as fiddly as ever – this is a departure from the physical unit of the previous Forester. The older-school setup of the Forester's cabin lends itself well to a physical system anyway, so something bespoke here would go a long way. Still, the whole unit and its integration into the dashboard look good in the car, though we could do with a less piano black plastic. 2026 Subaru Forester Credit: CarExpert It's also worth noting that every Forester comes with the same screen, regardless of trim level. While buyers of top-shelf variants may feel short-changed by that, it's good for entry-level shoppers who will also enjoy the luxury of amenities like heated seats and a wireless phone charger. One thing that does change across the range is the instrument cluster. All petrol variants and the base Hybrid feature a standard two-gauge setup, with Subaru's old digital screen taking up the small area between them. Functional and clean, no problems here. The Hybrid Sport and Touring grades at the top of the range are the only two to get Subaru's new 12.3-inch instrument display. This is a nice-to-have rather than a necessity, but it's graphically sharp and improves the cabin environment of these higher-spec trims. Its UI matches that of the infotainment screen, yet it looks crisper thanks to its high resolution. Both clusters can be navigated using the robust physical buttons and switches located on the left side of the steering wheel, and Hybrid variants replace the tachometer with a Toyota-esque power meter. 2026 Subaru Forester Credit: CarExpert 2026 Subaru Forester Credit: CarExpert Once again the theme here is functionality, and there are a handful of displays to select from in vehicles with the digital cluster. These include standard gauges, a stripped-back minimalist layout and a map, all of which serve a purpose and look good while doing it. Upholstery also changes between trim levels. Base and Premium grades are identifiable by their cloth upholstery, while Sport grades feature a durable-looking grey synthetic leather that's supposedly water-repellent for those extended fishing weekends. The finest synthetic leather and suede mix is reserved for the Hybrid Touring, but the seats in all Foresters are comfortable and offer ample adjustment, including lumbar support in some trims. A Harman Kardon sound system is also reserved for bigger spenders, but the standard system in base variants sounds surprisingly good, too. Other items up front include two central cupholders finished in scratchy black plastic, as well as AUX, USB-A, and USB-C outlets, a sunglasses holder, and a black headliner across the range. Finally! 2026 Subaru Forester Credit: CarExpert 2026 Subaru Forester Credit: CarExpert Moving to the second row reveals loads of space. The fishbowl cabin creates a spacious atmosphere back here, which is enhanced if you happen to be in one of the trim levels that has a sunroof, even if it isn't panoramic. We didn't find the bench seat to be all that comfortable, as it's flat and firm. This at least makes the middle seat more comfortable for its unlucky occupant, but they'll still have to deal with a driveline tunnel on the floor. There are some creature comforts, like a USB-A port, USB-C port, and rear-facing air vents on back of the centre console. There's also a fold-down centre armrest with cupholders, but the space is still a little bland. You'll also find more scratchy plastic on the door cards, but there's at least some personality across the range, with different-coloured accents and stitching depending on which trim you choose, the most luxe of which are found in the Hybrid Touring, naturally. 2026 Subaru Forester Credit: CarExpert The boot is where you'll find the most significant compromise for the new Forester. For petrol variants, hardly anything has changed; there's still plenty of space, a couple of cargo hooks on either side, and a neat cut-out for smaller items on the left. Under the boot floor is a space-saver spare wheel, which isn't ideal but better than nothing… we're looking at you, Forester Hybrid. Under the floor in Hybrid models is only a tyre repair kit, which is a serious omission in a car with some off-road credentials. This is undoubtedly due to the packaging of the battery. It's unfortunate because punctures can occur on even the simplest trails you might come across when going fishing or camping, as evidenced by the flat tyre suffered by one of the cars on our launch drive. You can opt for a clunky towbar-mounted spare wheel carrier at purchase, but that's hardly a glamorous workaround. 2026 Subaru Forester Credit: CarExpert To see how the Subaru Forester stacks up against its rivals, use our comparison tool At the heart of all new Foresters is a 2.5-litre four-cylinder naturally aspirated boxer engine, in classic Subaru fashion. This is mated with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) as standard in petrol vehicles, but things get more complicated in Hybrids. 2026 Subaru Forester Credit: CarExpert For an idea of the upgrade the Forester Hybrid has received, the outgoing model – referred to as a mild-hybrid – employed an electric motor producing just 12kW of power and 66Nm of torque to supplement its smaller 2.0-litre boxer four, which produced 100kW and 196Nm on its own. Apart from its higher engine, motor and total outputs, the new Forester Hybrid also upgrades from a 48-litre fuel tank to a 63L one, while combined-cycle fuel consumption has been reduced by 0.5L/100km compared with the outgoing hybrid, resulting in a longer range between refills. But it's still thirstier than the related RAV4 Hybrid, which consumes just 4.8L/100km, even though its engine pperates on the more efficient Atkinson combustion cycle. The Forester Hybrid features Subaru's TH2B hybrid transaxle, which differs from a CVT by incorporating a planetary gearset and two electric motors – one to drive the car and a secondary motor/generator to handle engine starts and battery recharging. The electric motor and gear set manage power delivery, replacing the traditional torque converter with a transaxle damper. This means that unlike the petrol Forester's CVT, the Hybrid's transmission uses no pulleys or chains. 2026 Subaru Forester Credit: CarExpert Crucially, the Forester Hybrid maintains a physical connection between the front and rear axles through a prop shaft and rear differential. On paper, this should make it more capable off-road than an AWD RAV4, which splits its hybrid system with the petrol engine powering the front wheels and the electric motor powering the rear-end. But Subaru's 'Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive' system does come at the cost of fuel economy, and our non-representative fuel figures at the launch were at least 1.0L/100km higher than Subaru's claim for both powertrains. The petrol Forester has the same power output as its predecessor, though torque is up by 8Nm and the CVT has broader gear ratios. This provides shorter first and reverse gears to aid in hill climbing and low-speed acceleration, as well as a longer top gear to reduce highway RPMs. Subaru also claims to have reduced noise, vibration and harshness levels, while improving the engine's reliability and responsiveness. To see how the Subaru Forester stacks up against its rivals, use our comparison tool This is where the Forester has received the most significant upgrades, so bear with us as we lay it all out. 2026 Subaru Forester Credit: CarExpert Improving the ride was a focus, but we received little information about specific chassis changes to achieve that. We know that there was an intention to improve the car's stability both at speed and through turns, which was achieved by stiffening both the suspension and body. This ties into its steering. Subaru claims that the new Forester features 'steering technology' derived from the current WRX, resulting in a more direct feel. That should mean the car requires less steering lock in bends, as well as fewer corrections when travelling in a straight line. That all sounds like splitting hairs, and it is. Even Subaru's demonstration video revealed only slight visual differences between the new and old Forester, but what matters is how that translates to the average driver. Fortunately, the new Forester is a joy to pilot on the open road. 2026 Subaru Forester Credit: CarExpert Powertrains aside for now, there's something quite satisfying about the car's steering. It still doesn't offer class-leading feedback, but it's well-weighted, responsive and accurate, diligently going anywhere you point it, which inspires confidence and makes for an easy drive. It'll take a lot to properly unsettle the car, and mid-corner bumps are transmitted to the driver's hands with enough feedback to know what's happening beneath you, while dialling out unnecessary kick and feedback. Subaru says the electric power steering has been tuned to be more responsive, and that's something we could also feel. Equally, there's also just enough body roll to remind you this isn't a sports car, but the speed at which you can take turns is more impressive. On quick changes of direction, the Forester responds without hesitation. Then there's the ride, which is also a substantial improvement. The outgoing Forester tended to feel unsettled on its springs, making it feel a little wobbly at freeway speeds – especially compared to some other mid-size SUVs. 2026 Subaru Forester Credit: CarExpert This iteration feels much more planted despite maintaining a relatively high ground clearance. The suspension setup is firmer, but by no means uncomfortable – it reminds me of the special-edition Forester STI Sport from 2024, which featured sportier suspension tuned by Subaru's in-house performance division. Its suspension tune wasn't geared explicitly for New Zealand or Australia, which means there could be room for further refinement if Subaru were to follow the route Mitsubishi took with its updated Outlander. Interestingly, we didn't notice any meaningful difference between the ride/handling of petrol and hybrid vehicles, despite the latter being slightly heavier. Naturally, the ride becomes more uncomfortable once the tarmac ends and the rough stuff begins, when the shudder of bumps and rocks can become tiring after prolonged travel. To its credit, we didn't notice any major interior creaks or rattles, which suggests sturdy build quality. This means the car should be able to withstand rough trails, where it showcases the benefits of its relatively generous ground clearance and all-wheel drive traction, which we could feel working to find grip on uneven and loose ground. 2026 Subaru Forester Credit: CarExpert In terms of noise, the difference between old and new is hard to notice, although Subaru demonstrated minuscule improvements of no more than four decibels depending on seating position and vehicle speed, the scale of which is reinforced once you hit coarser roads. There's still a fair bit of tyre noise, albeit slightly less on the thicker sidewalls of the Forester's cheaper variants. It's not unbearable, but there is a minor improvement from additional floor insulation, thicker windows, and extra damping material in the roof and body. Now for the powertrains. The new Hybrid features some technology derived from Toyota but maintains a distinctly Subaru construction, with its all-wheel drive and traditional mechanical driveline. It also has a larger a 2.5-litre boxer engine than before, albeit detuned and on a more efficient combustion cycle. The result is a competent hybrid system that performs seamlessly in almost all conditions, even if EV Mode deactivates itself above 40km/h. 2026 Subaru Forester Credit: CarExpert Opening the power flow monitor also reveals that the car is constantly switching between engine and battery energy sources, and between charging using the engine or wheels, which seems bizarre. The Hybrid provides a nice push from a standstill, but the engine and transmission become quite loud under hard acceleration. It all works as intended, but it's just not the most inspiring combination, and it's not particularly quick as the revs climb. There's at least a difference between the I and S drive modes, as the latter provides snappier throttle response. The transition from electric to petrol power is seamless, but switching back to a petrol-only Forester is refreshing. The engine is easier on the ears under load, and it feels like it keeps pulling as it rises through the rev range – settling on a remarkably low 1500rpm at 100km/h. This more traditional powertrain suits the Forester well, especially now that it has received a slight torque increase. It just feels more conventional and predictable, which could well be the more palatable option for many Subaru buyers. 2026 Subaru Forester Credit: CarExpert Still, we want to emphasise that it's great to have two competent powertrains to choose from. Early demand reflects this, as Subaru Australia says the buyer split is currently around 60 per cent towards hybrid variants. Subaru's X-Mode is also a good feature for light off-roading and has a noticeable effect on power delivery. It's always visible at the top of the infotainment screen, making it easy to access, and it becomes more versatile as you move up the Forester range with additional off-road modes. Unfortunately, we had issues with the Forester's new driver distraction monitor. As in some other Subaru models, it's far too sensitive in normal driving and pings you at every opportunity, even if you're paying attention to the road, but it can be disabled and even disables itself automatically if the driver is wearing sunglasses. We didn't get the chance to test its highway cruise control behaviour. Visibility out of the cabin is also good, and there's a healthy array of cameras to rely on, but the omission of front parking sensors makes the car more challenging to park, although Subaru's clever EyeSight driver assistance suite should make up for this somewhat. To see how the Subaru Forester stacks up against its rivals, use our comparison tool Three of the Forester's trim levels are available with either petrol or hybrid power, but standard equipment differs for each. 2026 Subaru Forester Credit: CarExpert 2026 Subaru Forester Credit: CarExpert 2026 Subaru Forester Credit: CarExpert 2026 Subaru Forester Credit: CarExpert 2025 Subaru Forester AWD equipment highlights: 18-inch alloy wheels Space-saver spare tyre Automatic, steering-responsive LED headlights Power-folding exterior mirrors LED front fog lights Front cornering lights Ladder-style roof rails 'X-Mode' with one drive mode Subaru Intelligent Drive (SI-Drive) with two modes Hill descent control Proximity entry with push-button start 11.6-inch portrait-oriented touchscreen infotainment system Wireless Apple CarPlay Wireless Android Auto Wireless phone charger USB-A and USB-C outlets 4.2-inch instrument cluster screen 6-speaker sound system Heated front seats Cloth upholstery Dual-zone climate control with rear vents Leather-wrapped steering wheel Silver interior stitching One-touch power-folding rear seats 60:40 split/fold rear seats Auto-dimming rear-view mirror Forester AWD Premium adds: Power tailgate with kick sensor 8-way power driver's seat with lumbar 8-way power passenger seat Satellite navigation Auto-dipping passenger-side mirror Power-folding exterior mirrors with memory Forester AWD Sport adds: Dark metallic 18-inch alloy wheels Power sunroof 'X-Mode' with two drive modes Black front grille with green insert Green badging Water-repellent synthetic leather upholstery Leather-wrapped steering wheel Green interior stitching Forester AWD Touring adds: Gloss black front grille, front and rear bumper accents, side mirrors Low-profile roof rails Leather and suede upholstery in black or brown Brown interior stitching Ventilated front seats 10-speaker Harman Kardon sound system with subwoofer 2026 Subaru Forester Credit: CarExpert ABOVE: Forester Hybrid Touring Forester AWD Hybrid adds (over base Forester): Tyre repair kit (instead of space-saver) Paddle shifters for regenerative braking Forester AWD Hybrid Sport adds (over Forester Sport): Bronze 19-inch alloy wheels Bronze exterior accents Low-profile roof rails Brown interior stitching 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster 10-speaker Harman Kardon sound system with subwoofer Forester AWD Hybrid Touring adds (over Forester Touring): Dark grey machined gloss finish 19-inch alloy wheels Leather and suede upholstery To see how the Subaru Forester stacks up against its rivals, use our comparison tool The Subaru Forester has a five-star ANCAP safety rating, based on testing conducted by Euro NCAP in 2024. This applies to both powertrains. 2026 Subaru Forester Credit: CarExpert Standard safety equipment includes: 9 airbags, including: Active torque vectoring Autonomous emergency braking (forward and reverse) Autonomous emergency steering Adaptive cruise control Blind-spot monitoring Driver monitoring system Emergency driving stop system Emergency lane-keep assist Front side radar Lane centring Lane change assist Lane-keep assist Rear cross-traffic alert Rear parking sensors Surround-view camera Traffic sign recognition Tyre pressure monitoring Wide-angle monocular camera To see how the Subaru Forester stacks up against its rivals, use our comparison tool Subaru Australia backs its Forester with a five-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty, along with an eight-year, 160,000km warranty for the Hybrid's battery. 2026 Subaru Forester Credit: CarExpert Subaru's capped-price service costs are outlined below. They're the same for petrol and Hybrid variants. To see how the Subaru Forester stacks up against its rivals, use our comparison tool The Forester has received a healthy upgrade, even if a lot of what's changed appears relatively minor on the surface. 2026 Subaru Forester Credit: CarExpert Its new exterior design looks smart to our eyes, and grows on you as you spend time with it in the metal. The interior isn't revolutionary, but it all works as it should and has a clean look. And it's been improved with quality items like the non-essential digital instrument display if that's what you're into. Most of the Forester's on-road characteristics have also been upgraded, and we thoroughly enjoyed driving the Forester on New Zealand roads. More direct steering and a more confident ride are just what the doctor ordered, and we could spend hours behind the wheel of this new model quite easily. The hybrid powertrain is good, but not outstanding. It has many Toyota traits, with its loud engine and dreary CVT-like transmission detracting a little from the experience. Still, the fact that it now behaves like a fully fledged hybrid is a significant advance over the mild-hybrid mill it replaces. It's easy to drive in built-up areas too, and you'll be spending more time in EV mode in such settings. This will improve fuel economy, potentially getting closer to Subaru's claim than we were able to. 2026 Subaru Forester Credit: CarExpert But I still preferred driving the petrol Forester, as it feels more traditional and easier to live with. The fuel economy trade-off is nothing new for Subaru, and the combination of the boxer engine, CVT and improved ride and handling makes for a dependable and predictable drive that's never going to throw up any drastic surprises. It's disappointing there are no front parking sensors and that the driver attention monitor is actually distracting. It's the same in the Solterra (even glancing through the instrument cluster menu sets it off) and it isn't something buyers expect from a Subaru. Those two blights aside, the new Forester is a complete package that now offers more choice than ever before. Despite the higher price tags, it should remain Subaru's sales leader, even if it's unlikely to become the new RAV4. Yes, it's higher-tech and higher-priced, but the latest Forester remains true to its roots, and it should be high on the consideration list for traditionally minded mid-size SUV buyers. 2026 Subaru Forester Credit: CarExpert Interested in buying a Subaru Forester? Let CarExpert find you the best deal here MORE: Explore the Subaru Forester showroom Lovely ride and steering Commendable hybrid chops Interior is unintimidating, albeit dated Much more expensive Overbearing driver monitor No spare wheel in Hybrid models
