Subaru is preparing for the launch of the all-important next-generation hybrid variant of the Forester in the United States, as the company has quietly shown its customer that the model will not go on sale until mid-2025. Although it calls it Array 2025MY, given the time frame, it may end up being announced as 2026MY. This new edition will retain the symmetrical all-wheel drive system, but with improved power and lower emissions compared to its gasoline counterpart.
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The Forester Hybrid is expected to feature the same self-charging hybrid setup that debuted in the new Crosstrek Hybrid in Japan in October 2024. This parallel series formula intelligently switches between the engine and the electric motor as the power source. energy, depending on driving conditions.
Powertrain Configuration
The configuration combines a 2. 5-liter horizontally opposed four-cylinder engine, generating 158 horsepower (118 kW/160 hp), with two electric motors. The first, called the traction motor by Subaru, supplies an additional 118 horsepower (88 kW/120 HP) to drive the wheels, while the second functions as a generator. The electric drive is powered by a modest 1. 1 kWh lithium-ion battery. While it doesn’t offer much diversity for purely electric vehicles, it’s worth the fuel efficiency.
Subaru leveraged Toyota’s expertise in hybrid cars to expand the new powertrain as part of their collaboration. The automaker says the new formula offers a 20% improvement in fuel power over Subaru’s existing e-Boxer hybrid setup, which is available in Japan, Europe and other markets, but never introduced in the U. S. U. S.
When it comes to visual changes, don’t hold your breath. Subaru has revealed a specific hybrid badge that is expected to adorn the tailgate of the electrified Forester, but beyond that, beyond the spy images is a design that is virtually indistinguishable from the internal combustion engine (ICE) style standard. It’s an old Subaru, which prefers subtlety to ostentation.
Although the precise release date of the Forester Hybrid has yet to be announced, as Car&Driver discovered, Subaru is already accepting buyer programs in the United States on its website. Here’s what the automaker says:
“In mid-2025, the flexible and capable Forester will reach a new point of power and fuel generation with the 2025 Subaru Forester hybrid SUV. Combining the all-weather features of Subaru’s iconic symmetrical all-wheel drive with a hybrid powertrain, the Forester Hybrid offers a smart price in a rugged, portable package. You’ll enjoy all the adventurous features drivers love about the Forester, plus even more power and lower emissions in the all-new 2025 Forester Hybrid. “
As for pricing, the popular 2025 Forester starts at $29,695, plus a $1,420 destination fee, bringing the total to $31,115 before taxes. The hybrid edition will actually start at a higher price, the exact amount will depend on whether Subaru offers it. with the base style or higher editions like the Premium.