2025 Subaru Forester Hybrid

Many of the 2025 Forester's changes are subtle. It's pretty much the same size on the outside and the inside. Subaru has upgraded the Forester's touchscreen. Every trim level except the base one gets a new 11.6-inch tablet-style touchscreen display. This is the same screen that Subaru has been using in the larger Outback for a few years now. The most significant change for 2025 is the new Subaru Forester Hybrid. Its hybrid powertrain makes 194 horsepower — 14 more hp than the base engine — and gets an estimated 35 mpg in combined city/highway driving. That's a nice bump from the regular Forester's 29 mpg but still a few mpg below what most other small hybrid SUVs get.

The small crossover segment is awash with highly regarded vehicles that offer spacious interiors, fuel-efficient powertrains and — in some cases — thrilling performance. The Mazda CX-50 is one of our favorites; three powertrains are available, including a sporty turbocharged four-cylinder and a Toyota-derived hybrid. The Honda CR-V answers the call if you need something a little roomier, and the Kia Sportage is hard to beat for sheer value. The Forester has long held an advantage for its enhanced off-road abilities when compared to more conventional SUVs, but competitors have caught onto the growing appetite for off-roady variants. The CX-50 Turbo Meridian Edition, Ford Bronco Sport Badlands and Nissan Rogue Rock Creek are all more adventurous than other models in their respective lineups.