2025 Subaru Forester Review
Screens and Knobs: Lots of One, Not Enough of the Other
The 11.6-inch vertical touchscreen in other Subarus finally enters the Forester for 2025. Some MotorTrend editors prefer horizontal screens, but if you have to go vertical, this is a decent setup.
We appreciate the way Subaru has taken clear steps to improve the layout over the years. The improvements in Apple CarPlay are noteworthy, as it now displays more conveniently. Moreover, the heated and ventilated seats can now be adjusted without navigating through multiple screens, making the user experience more seamless.
For the 2025 Forester, the 11.6-inch screen is either available or standard on most models, featuring wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. We tried CarPlay and appreciated how it filled most of the screen, leaving some room for HVAC controls.
What’s missing here are knobs. The old Forester had five knobs for volume, tuning, temperature, and fan speed. The new one now provides only volume and tuning knobs, while temperature is controlled by flat buttons, with fan speed displayed on the screen. Although not ideal, it’s a functional update.
No Big Screen Here
Where you won’t find a big screen is the instrument cluster. While this certainly isn’t an expectation in the compact SUV segment, larger displays are becoming common among competitors. Such details could help justify a higher trim level in the 2025 Forester lineup.
That said, the vertical screen between the tachometer and speedometer gauges is well designed, making effective use of available space.
Ahhhh
Enough screen talk; how’s the view outside? We’re pleased to report that the Forester still offers excellent outward visibility. The rear quarter windows may have slightly reduced in size, but overall visibility remains impressive, attributable to the low beltline and tall roof. This feature has consistently been a reason to choose a Forester, even in 2025.
Rear-Seat Spaciousness
While we lack specific rear-seat legroom figures at the moment, the rear seat feels spacious enough. Reclining the rear seat is easily accomplished via a small strap at the base, providing a more user-friendly experience than some competitors.
If you’re willing to put your phone aside, a phone-sized holder is built into the map pockets of the front seats. Additionally, we noticed that while the rear doors still open wide, they do not open as wide as before.
Subaru informs us that the rear seats have a stadium-style design, which plays a role in meeting safety regulations set by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
A Forester Trademark: The Glass Roof
The moonroof in the new Forester mirrors that of the outgoing model, featuring one uninterrupted large panel. While the cover may be a stretch to operate, it enhances the experience for both the driver and rear passengers when opened.
Touch a Panel, Any Panel
Another Subaru trait we loved on the current-gen Outback and outgoing Forester is their soft interior panels, including soft-touch materials on the doors and the edges of the center stack. For pricing that starts just below $30,000 and can reach up to $40,000, the 2025 Forester easily meets expectations for materials quality. The SUV continues the legacy of elegance with upgraded materials, especially in higher trims with suede inserts.
Hexagons and Geometry
The Forester is not typically known for its style, but Subaru has refined specific elements such as the textured trim on the passenger-side dash. In the 2025 model, the pleasant design features hexagons, which adds a unique touch.
While we appreciate the interior’s new aesthetics, other competitors such as Toyota excel in integrating geometric motifs throughout their interiors.
What About Cargo Space?
We didn’t overlook cargo space—though in the 2025 Subaru Forester it lags behind rivals like the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V. However, its 29.6 cubic feet feels ample, thanks to a wide opening. Simple controls to fold down the rear seats allow for a generous 74.4 cubic feet of space.
Put It All Together
The 2025 Subaru Forester’s interior presents more advantages than disadvantages. The 11.6-inch vertical touchscreen is an improvement, yet it’s not considered a top-tier infotainment system. Furthermore, a digital instrument cluster could elevate the Touring trim in future models.
Visibility remains a strong suit, and the SUV feels spacious, making it user-friendly in compact parking spots. The retention of soft materials enhances overall comfort for passengers. In conclusion, the Forester maintains its core values while evolving with market needs over nearly three decades.
Why the 2025 Subaru Forester Looks Like This
Attracting new customers while keeping existing ones satisfied is a design challenge.
Zach Gale – Writer | Nov 15, 2023
More is not always more. For years, the Subaru Forester has found success with its boxy design against competitors like the Hyundai Tucson and Nissan Rogue. Visibility is a key aspect of the Forester’s reputation, but the challenge was to enhance its style without compromising core attributes.
Time to Conquer CR-V and RAV4
As you approach the new SUV, its design details become more apparent. Bill Stokes, car line planning manager for the 2025 Forester, acknowledges that some potential buyers avoid the Forester due to its design and desire a more refined aesthetic.
Therefore, the 2025 Forester offers a more standout design. With its larger grille and enhanced detailing, the SUV aims to attract buyers of the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4. Boxier and contrasting wheel flares enhance its substantial appearance.
More Details the Closer You Get
Aerodynamic enhancements like the front fender flares and textured hexagonal trim add style. The updated 19-inch wheels are larger than previous models, though they may appear overly intricate for some preferences. Details around the grille incorporate more visual elements, subtly referencing designs from other vehicles.
2025 Forester: Buy For Its Design?
Functionality remains the primary reason to choose a 2025 Subaru Forester over its design. Despite past supply challenges, Subaru’s reputation should maintain interest from brand loyalists, as well as appeal to new buyers attracted to its practical features.
Next-Gen Subaru Forester Wilderness Off-Roader Halo Model Will Return
It won’t be long before we see the Wilderness.
Zach Gale – Writer; Manufacturer – Photographer; Darren Martin – Photographer | Nov 15, 2023
Subaru’s website highlights the Crosstrek and Outback busily navigating rugged terrains, with the Forester Wilderness also pictured tackling muddy trails. With the 2025 Subaru Forester’s recent introduction, we expect the Wilderness edition to follow soon.
The 2025 Forester lineup includes five models—base, Premium, Sport, Limited, and Touring—with a hybrid model expected later.
Although Forester drivers may not venture off-road as frequently as Crosstrek or Outback owners, a 2025 Forester Wilderness with practical features is anticipated, including better ground clearance and all-terrain capabilities.
Pricing for the 2025 Forester Wilderness could start around $37,000, keeping it competitive within its model range.
