Latest news with #SubaruForester
Daily Mail
21 hours ago
- Daily Mail
Gang of girls as young as 13 allegedly roll stolen car in Brighton, Melbourne
A group of teenage girls are lucky to be alive after an allegedly stolen car crashed and flipped onto its roof in a ritzy Melbourne suburb. Police were called to Rooding Street in the bayside suburb of Brighton about 9.45pm on Monday following reports a black Subaru Forester had smashed into multiple parked vehicles and then rolled. The teenagers managed to escape the wreckage and fled the scene on foot. Dramatic photos and footage showed the overturned Subaru Forester flipped on its roof in the middle of the road, which was strewn with broken glass and debris. Shocked residents were seen inspecting the extensive damage to their vehicles after they helped to free the passengers from the wreckage. They claimed that up to eight teens may have been inside the car at the time, which was allegedly stolen in Carnegie, about 7km away, earlier in the night. Bottles of vodka were reportedly also found in the car. A jetlagged Sarah Cavalier and her family had just returned from their overseas holiday when they were woken by a massive bang outside. Her car was one of those hit by the Subaru. 'We all ran out and all of a sudden the car was literally right across the whole road and there were all these kids inside going "I need my phone", and they were carrying on and trying to get out,' Ms Cavalier told Sunrise. 'We're all saying, "it's alright, just get out of the car, everything is fine".' She had no idea the car had been allegedly stolen until the teens fled the scene. 'There's a massive power pole on one side, there's a tree on this side. If they'd hit that pole, there would have been somebody dead for sure,' Ms Cavalier said. 'I don't know how they didn't get seriously hurt.' Ms Cavalier, who has children of a similar age, said it was 'sad' and 'unbelievable' the teenagers were out on a Monday night. Three 13-year-old girls and one 17-year-old girl were arrested a short time later and transported to hospital with minor injuries. They were summoned to face a children's court at a later date. No other injuries were reported. The incident has renewed calls for a crackdown on youth crime in the affluent suburb. 'It's not being treated as seriously as it should be,' a resident told the Herald Sun. 'I think the bail laws are just waffle (and) they aren't strong enough. They are out on the street again hours after all this happened.' One of Brighton's most famous residents, AFL WAG turned anti-crime crusader Bec Judd, has long criticised the state government's response to the epidemic.
Auto Blog
a day ago
- Automotive
- Auto Blog
Subaru Icons Face Stylish Threat from Mazda
By signing up I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy . You may unsubscribe from email communication at anytime. A proper Subaru competitor You don't have to be a Subaru owner to understand the brand's target audience. If you're a parent who answers the call of the wild, a dog owner, or someone who appreciates a good value, you've likely shopped for a Subaru at least once (or you own one now). Mazda examined the typical buyers of the Subaru Outback and Forester crossover SUVs and decided to throw a low blow by introducing the CX-50 in 2021. The body shape is long with a sloped roofline in the back, similar to the Outback, but has similar cargo space figures to the Forester. With a standard intelligent AWD system, off-road-centric drive modes, rugged styling, and outdoorsy marketing featuring images of families with dogs and/or kids, Mazda knew exactly what they were doing. 0:08 / 0:09 2025 Honda Accord: 4 reasons to love it, 2 reasons to think twice Watch More When Mazda decided to partner up with Toyota to produce the CX-50 hybrid (utilizing the hybrid system in the RAV4 hybrid), it put itself ahead of the pack, since the Outback still isn't a hybrid, and the Forester was just hybridized for 2026. With the Forester being a true AWD hybrid SUV, it gives it a bit more of an edge against the CX-50, especially since the pricing of the Forester hybrid and the CX-50 hybrid is very similar. The Subaru Forester's price range is $29,695 to $43,295 for the Touring Hybrid, while the CX-50 Hybrid's pricing starts at $35,195 to $41,195. Not only is the Mazda less expensive, but it also has a more premium interior and a trusted hybrid system, while the Forester hybrid is an all-new system. Source: Kristen Brown As a gas-only car, we'll compare the Mazda's price range to the Outback. The Mazda starts at $31,995 and goes up to $44,495 for the 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus, while the Subaru Outback starts at $29,351 and goes up to $43,210. As you can see, the Mazda takes on the Forester and the Outback at the same time. If power is important, the Mazda is hard to beat The Mazda I reviewed was the 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus, which is the top-shelf model of the gas-only CX-50. Under the hood is a 2.5-liter turbo four-cylinder engine that generates 227 horsepower when regular octane fuel. However, when you use premium (which, ingeniously, Maza engineered it to handle both), the horsepower is boosted to 256. Of course, more horsepower comes at the cost of miles per gallon, but if you're looking for a little pep in your step, filling up with premium every once and a while is a great way to do that. The Forester has a 'Sport' model, which is more than an appearance package than anything else, but the Forester XT was discontinued in 2018. As far as power is concerned, the Forester doesn't stand a chance, as stock figures aren't more than 180 horsepower. Autoblog Newsletter Autoblog brings you car news; expert reviews and exciting pictures and video. Research and compare vehicles, too. Sign up or sign in with Google Facebook Microsoft Apple By signing up I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy . You may unsubscribe from email communication at anytime. Source: Kristen Brown The Outback, on the other hand, can be bought with Subaru's 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder boxer engine in four trims: the Wilderness, Onyx XT, Limited XT, and the Touring XT. The Touring XT is the top-of-the-line trim level, and it's meant to be what Mazda's Premium Plus trim is: rugged luxury. The interior of both cars features creamy tan Nappa leather, all-weather features like heated mirrors, a heated steering wheel, heated seats, and complementary contrast stitching. The Outback's turbocharged engine makes more horsepower at 260, but unless it's in Sport mode, the CVT prioritizes a smooth ride that stays in the low end of RPMs to help keep mileage in the high 20s. When I had it, I was averaging 25 mpg. The CVT can certainly give the XT power when you put the pedal to the metal without too much rubberbanding, but the Mazda's traditional automatic is much more responsive and refined. Mazda's intelligent AWD system helps the CX-50 be more efficient The Subaru Forester and Outback both use a very traditional, mechanical AWD system. Since the front and rear wheels have a permanent connection to the engine, Subaru's symmetrical system is known for its rigidity and longevity. Mazda's system is similar, but much more electronically controlled. It's an 'intelligent' system that's reactive and predictive, and when sensors don't detect slipping (or predict slipping, based on factors like wheel speed, steering input, and windshield wiper usage), the system will split the torque to bias the front wheels. This helps the CX-50 get better mileage when AWD isn't needed, and then be able to handle the unexpected at the same time. Subaru's system is proven and incredibly tough, but because it's always on, even when the weather is fair, mileage certainly suffers. The company has improved its efficiency by a large margin over the last few decades, but the figures are noticeably different. The Forester, as a non-hybrid, gets a little better mileage since it's not as large or as heavy as the Outback at around 24 mpg combined, and the CVT helps, but the Mazda was getting 25 mpg doing mostly downtown driving. The Outback was getting around the same, but I did do more highway driving. Both Mazda and Subaru are incredibly safe options Mazda and Subaru are two companies that are known for their safety features that come as standard equipment, instead of having to pay extra for them (looking at you, Toyota). Subaru's Eye-Sight is an award-winning dual-camera system that's known for its effectiveness in busy areas like cities, but tends to be less effective in poor weather conditions that can block cameras. Mazda's system is a predictive one that utilizes cameras and radar, making it effective in poor weather conditions. Additionally, cameras help prevent human accidents through features such as cyclist and pedestrian detection. Both systems are highly praised for their effectiveness, and both brands get gold stars for having incredible features as standard equipment. Source: Kristen Brown Therefore, even if you bought the base level of the Mazda CX-50, Subaru Forester, or Outback, you'd be getting top-shelf safety features for much, much less. Both companies have key features like lane assist, adaptive cruise control, driver attention alert, reverse automatic braking, automatic emergency braking, forward collision detection, blind spot detection, and more—all for a fair price. Either brand is prepped for adventure By the features on the CX-50, it's obvious they were aligning themselves for Subaru's buyers. Like the Outback and the Forester, the Mazda CX-50 comes with standard AWD at all trim levels, has 8.6 inches of ground clearance, and has an 'Off-Road' drive mode that splits the torque and power evenly across all four wheels. Granted, that drive mode isn't the same as Subaru's X-MODE, designed for off-road driving, but all three models got good scores in snow, dirt, and mud. All three also come standard with all-season tires, and both brands offer adventure-friendly dealer add-ons like roof rails, cargo boxes or baskets, all-weather mats, cargo nets, and pet-centric options like seat covers. Source: Kristen Brown Off-road, the Mazda doesn't feel as comfortable because of its limited visibility (the seating position is quite low, the windows are smaller and higher up, the hood line is high, and the cameras are a pretty low resolution), but the AWD system was poised, balanced, and incredibly responsive. The Subaru Forester and Outback are very happy to be off-road, because of the high seating position and excellent visibility. Both are very easy to see out of and even easier to drive without the need for cameras, so if you plan on doing a lot of overlanding, Subaru is the way to go. But if you want a family-friendly car that can handle the occasional trail to a remote campsite, the Mazda's a solid choice. If cargo and passenger space is a priority, Subaru is the clear winner The CX-50 is around the same size as either Subaru, with the Subarus being a little taller, wider, and longer, but the low roof line and the low seating position made it feel quite cramped in the driver's seat compared to the wide open feeling of either Subaru. The Forester has the best visibility out of all three, with a high seating position, a tall roof, and large windows. I was looking over the hood, which made it easy to see the corners of the hood, and since I could look over my shoulder and see behind me, I didn't even need blind spot warnings. The Outback was also easy to see out of, but not as easily as the Forester. The Outback is the largest of the three, so it shouldn't be shocking to learn that it has the most cargo and passenger space. The Mazda has decent cargo space, but the rear seats were cramped with both of my toddlers' car seats. A low roof line means less height, so you can't put as much in the trunk as you can in either Subaru. That could easily be fixed with a cargo box and basket, though. Final thoughts The Mazda CX-50 poses a direct threat to the Subaru Forester and Outback with similar features, similar off-road features, standard AWD, and family-friendly price ranges. The Mazda's hybrid option with Toyota's trusted and proven hybrid system makes it hard to pass up, while the Forester's hybrid system is all-new. Subaru's excellent visibility and refined X-MODE make it more off-road-ready, but the Mazda's power and use of an automatic transmission over a CVT make the driving dynamic much more refined and balanced, even when driving daily. Source: Kristen Brown The Subaru has more passenger and cargo space if you're shopping for a family car, but if you wanted a fun, spirited adventure SUV and kids weren't in the picture, the CX-50 would be the one I'd recommend. You can't go wrong with any of the three cars listed, especially at those prices. When the Outback finally comes out with a hybrid option, the competition will be even stiffer. About the Author Kristen Brown View Profile
7NEWS
2 days ago
- Automotive
- 7NEWS
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. 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. Know the news with the 7NEWS app: Download today 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? How much does the Subaru Forester cost? Prices are up by nearly $5000 across the range, with the new Forester now starting at $43,490 before on-road costs. 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 What is the Subaru Forester like on the inside? It's better to think of the interior as an evolution rather than a revolution, but even that's a stretch. 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. 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. 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. 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! 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. 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. To see how the Subaru Forester stacks up against its rivals, use our comparison tool What's under the bonnet? 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. 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. 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 How does the Subaru Forester drive? This is where the Forester has received the most significant upgrades, so bear with us as we lay it all out. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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 What do you get? Three of the Forester's trim levels are available with either petrol or hybrid power, but standard equipment differs for each. 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 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 Is the Subaru Forester safe? The Subaru Forester has a five-star ANCAP safety rating, based on testing conducted by Euro NCAP in 2024. This applies to both powertrains. 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 How much does the Subaru Forester cost to run? 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. 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 CarExpert's Take on the Subaru Forester The Forester has received a healthy upgrade, even if a lot of what's changed appears relatively minor on the surface. 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. 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. Interested in buying a Subaru Forester? Let CarExpert find you the best deal here MORE: Explore the Subaru Forester showroom Pros Lovely ride and steering Commendable hybrid chops Interior is unintimidating, albeit dated Cons Much more expensive Overbearing driver monitor No spare wheel in Hybrid models This article was originally published from CarExpert and appears with permission.
Perth Now
2 days ago
- 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
Miami Herald
6 days ago
- Automotive
- Miami Herald
Subaru Launches Radical 2025 Forester Lease Deal for July
The 2025 Subaru Forester received a redesign last year, and it's the most radical styling change for the brand's best-selling model, now in its sixth generation. The popular compact crossover manages to carry over the ethos of the fifth generation while looking more SUV-like than ever. It now offers a more cohesive design, improved sound deadening, and a more refined cabin. Gone are the lobster claw-style headlights and taillights, replaced by more unified front and rear fascias, more prominent fenders, and a bit less creasing along the doors. Overall, the new Forester has a more grown-up look. The Forester has a sweet host of standard features, including remote keyless entry, LED headlights, and "welcome lighting," which casts a beam of light on the exterior front door handles at night. We recommend the Sport trim level due to its well-balanced combination of equipment, appearance, and price within the Forester lineup. The Forester Sport features attractive bronze trim and exclusive wheels, along with additional creature comforts such as heated front seats and a large 11.6-inch infotainment touchscreen. Interestingly, Subaru says the current 2024 Forester Wilderness will continue alongside the new 2025 Forester models until an unnamed future date, and we expect the Wilderness trim to move to the new model in 2026. Price for the 2024 Forester Wilderness remains unchanged at $36,265. If all of that sounds like a terrific deal, Subaru's attractive lease deal for the month of July should make it even better. Through July 31, 2025, you can lease a new 2025 Forester Base (MSRP $31,415) for $289/month for 36 months with $0 security deposit and $4,288 due at lease signing. The mileage limit is 10,000 miles/year, and there's a disposition fee of $300 at the end of the lease period. The good news is that the monthly lease price is the same in New York, NY, as it is in both Chicago, IL, and San Francisco, CA. The aforementioned amount due at least signing does not include tax, license, title, registration, insurance, additional options, and dealer charges. Learn more here. All Foresters are powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder boxer engine good for 180 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque, mated to a continuously variable transmission. The Forester doesn't provide any other engine options, but EPA fuel economy estimates for the 2025 Forester Base are 26 mpg city and 33 mpg highway. The Forester Base trim is loaded with excellent standard features, with standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive headlining the list. In addition to AWD, the Forester Base comes with 17-inch dark metallic machined finish alloy wheels, LED steering-responsive headlights, automatic headlights, raised roof rails, dual-zone automatic climate control, dual 7-inch infotainment screens, EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, remote keyless entry, and tire pressure monitoring. The Forester is big on space with a colossal 39.4 inches of second-row legroom, one of the best in its class. The tall 39.6 inches of headroom means there's plenty of space for tall folks across the row. Cargo space is a generous 74.4 cubic feet of space when the rear seats are folded down and 29.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, a couple of cubes more than the higher trims. One of the Forester's big bonuses is its continued commitment to safety, earning a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS for the 2025 model year. The 2025 Subaru Forester gets a redesign that many will approve of, giving it a more upscale look than any of its predecessors. The Forester looks more mature now, and it has improved both inside and out. On top of that, the affordable monthly lease payment makes it one of the best lease deals in the segment for July. Before signing the lease agreement, be aware of the costs due at signing, including taxes and registration fees, etc. Read the lease agreement carefully and inquire about potential additional costs at the dealership. *Disclaimer: This article is provided for informational purposes only. The information presented herein is based on manufacturer-provided lease offer information, which is subject to frequent change and may vary based on location, creditworthiness, and other factors. We are not a party to any lease agreements and assume no liability for the terms, conditions, availability, or accuracy of any lease offers mentioned. All terms, including but not limited to pricing, mileage allowances, and residual values, require direct verification with an authorized local OEM dealership. This article does not constitute financial advice or an endorsement of any particular lease or vehicle. Copyright 2025 The Arena Group, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
