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2025 Subaru Forester First Drive: A Quieter, More Refined Take on a Familiar SUV

The sixth-generation 2025 Subaru Forester refines a practical formula with a quieter cabin and updated driver assistance, but trim equipment and tech polish deserve a closer look.
Entry392 Date Time4 min MechanicCarCody Team
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The redesigned 2025 Subaru Forester keeps the practical formula buyers know—standard all-wheel drive, generous outward visibility and useful everyday space—while adding a quieter cabin, updated driver assistance and a more modern interior. First-drive reviewers found the ride comfortable and the cabin noticeably quieter, though one comparison with the Honda CR-V flagged slower, less polished infotainment and less passenger and cargo room.

What changed for the 2025 Forester?

The 2025 model is the sixth-generation Forester, revealed by Subaru on November 16, 2023. Subaru describes it as a redesign with new exterior and interior styling, improved ride comfort and standard EyeSight Driver Assist Technology. The company also says the updated platform has 10% greater torsional rigidity; that is Subaru’s claim, not an independent measurement. Subaru’s 2025 Forester page lists standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and 8.7 inches of ground clearance for the U.S. gas model. Subaru’s launch announcement says the latest EyeSight system operates more smoothly and quickly, and under a wider range of conditions than earlier versions; that is the manufacturer’s description, not an independent evaluation.

The redesign updates the cabin technology, but equipment varies by trim. Base models use a 7-inch dual-display multimedia setup, while upper trims include an available 11.6-inch STARLINK system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Subaru also lists an available 360-degree Surround View Monitor and Automatic Emergency Steering. Check the equipment on the specific vehicle and in the relevant market before treating any feature as standard.

How does it feel on the road?

Consumer Reports’ first-drive account describes the Forester as retaining its outward visibility, roomy cabin, comfortable ride and standard all-wheel drive, with added sound deadening making the cabin noticeably quieter. The publication characterized it as a sturdy, functional small SUV. These are reviewer observations, not instrumented noise or ride measurements.

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#1 Best Overall
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The improvement is best understood as refinement rather than a change in mission: the Forester remains oriented toward visibility, everyday utility and all-weather capability. Subaru’s ground-clearance and all-wheel-drive specifications support that positioning, but they do not by themselves establish how it performs in any particular weather or off-road condition.

Which trim has the safety and technology features?

Subaru announced five launch trims: Base, Premium, Sport, Limited and Touring. The brochure and trim summaries show meaningful equipment differences, so buyers should verify the actual vehicle’s window sticker or build sheet rather than assuming every Forester has the same screen or driver-awareness features.

Rank #2
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  • [Material] This Forester toy car is made primarily from diecast metal with plastic parts and rubber tires, ensuring durability and making it a robust toy vehicle or a collectible item.
  • [Interactive Functions] Equipped with a pull-back mechanism, opening doors, hood, and trunk, as well as light and sound effects, this 1/30 Forester model car offers immersive and engaging fun.
  • [Detailed Design] This Forester SUV toy displays a detailed design that mimics the actual Forester, complete with a rugged bumper, openable doors, realistic tires, and a detailed interior. These elements make the toy car not only fun to play with but also a great display piece.
  • [Perfect for Collectors and Kids] It’s a great addition to any model car collectors or as a gift for kids (Birthday and Christmas Gifts Choice). Whether you’re a dedicated model car collector or looking for a memorable gift for a child, this Forester diecast model car is always a perfect choice.
  • Blind-spot warning and rear cross-traffic warning: Consumer Reports’ model summary says these features are unavailable on Base, optional on Premium and standard on trims above Premium.
  • Infotainment: The brochure lists a 7-inch dual-display setup for Base and an 11.6-inch system with wireless phone integration on upper trims.
  • Additional assistance and parking equipment: Subaru lists Automatic Emergency Steering and the 360-degree Surround View Monitor as available features; availability depends on configuration.

Trim names and packages can differ by market or production details. Confirm the included equipment on the exact vehicle, especially if blind-spot alerts, rear cross-traffic alerts or the larger screen are must-haves.

How much fuel and cargo capacity does it offer?

Subaru’s 2025 brochure gives fuel-economy figures based on 2024 EPA estimates: 29 mpg combined for most listed gas trims and 28 mpg combined for Sport and Touring. They are not current independent test results, and actual mileage may vary. The brochure presents 74.4 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded; its layout also includes a 69.1-cubic-foot figure tied to a configuration footnote, so check the brochure and trim-specific details before relying on that smaller figure.

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For protecting the cargo area, Subaru lists vehicle-specific high-wall all-weather floor liners and a cargo tray. The company says the liners are custom-fitted to protect carpet, while the tray helps shield the trunk from dirt and stains and can reduce cargo shifting. Its brochure also describes Thule carriers for bikes, skis, snowboards, kayaks and paddleboards; a crossbar set is required for mounting. Confirm exact fitment for the 2025 model and your configuration before buying accessories.

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How does it compare with the Honda CR-V?

An Edmunds comparison republished by AP News gives the Forester an advantage in outward visibility, pointing to its window area, roof pillars and low hood. The same comparison says the 2025 Honda CR-V offers more passenger and cargo space, and criticizes the Forester touchscreen for slow response and dated graphics. Those are the reviewers’ comparative judgments, not results from a complete instrumented head-to-head test.

Rank #4
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That distinction helps clarify the choice. The Forester’s appeal is its visibility and all-weather-oriented package; the CR-V comparison favors Honda for room and describes its technology presentation more favorably by implication. Compare the exact trims and safety equipment, then try the screens and controls in person if infotainment responsiveness matters to you.

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What should a buyer verify before choosing one?

  • Check the trim’s actual safety equipment, particularly blind-spot and rear cross-traffic alerts.
  • Confirm whether the vehicle has the 7-inch dual-display system or the 11.6-inch screen and wireless phone integration.
  • Compare rear-seat and cargo needs against the CR-V if maximum space is a priority.
  • Review the exact trim’s brochure specifications for fuel economy and cargo capacity; the published figures carry model, estimate and configuration qualifications.
  • For accessories, verify model-year and configuration fitment, and remember that the cited roof carriers require crossbars.

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.

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