Subaru’s Compact SUV, Forester
Hybrid Set for U.S. Launch
Promising 20% Boost in Fuel Efficiency
Subaru is preparing to launch a hybrid SUV model of the next-generation Forester, considered Subaru’s core model, in America. The official U.S. website recently confirmed that the Forester Hybrid will go on sale in mid-2025.
Accordingly, it is expected to be released in the U.S. market soon as a 2025 Forester. The Forester Hybrid uses the same front-wheel drive system as the gasoline model, but improvements include higher fuel efficiency and reduced exhaust emissions. Toyota reportedly shared its hybrid expertise and technology with Subaru for this purpose.
EV mode for short-distance driving
Two motors with distinct roles
The Forester Hybrid’s powertrain is likely based on the Crosstrek Hybrid, released in Japan last October. It is a series-parallel hybrid system with a 2.5-liter horizontally opposed engine, two electric motors, and a 1.1 kWh battery. One of the two electric motors installed here drives a generator.
It can only drive in EV mode for a certain distance with a 1.1 kWh battery and an electric motor for power generation. Since the battery capacity is low, it is expected to be used only in limited situations, such as stopping and starting or short distances. The remaining electric motor is designed to participate directly in the output and is expected to show more powerful performance and efficiency.
Electric Motor Delivers 118 Horsepower, Targeting Over 1,000 km (621 miles) Range
The electric motor involved in the output produces a maximum output of 118 horsepower and a maximum torque of 270 Nm. Depending on the driving situation, the two electric motors can operate alternately to increase efficiency or can be operated simultaneously. In addition, the 2.5-liter horizontally opposed engine is designed to produce a maximum output of 158 horsepower and a maximum torque of 209 Nm.
Subaru claims that the hybrid system will improve fuel efficiency by more than 20% compared to the e-Boxer hybrid. Like the Crosstrek hybrid, it can travel up to 1,000 km on a single tank. The exterior design is not expected to differ much from the gasoline model’s. Previously captured prototypes had a hybrid badge on the tailgate, but the design was mostly maintained.
Forester Hybrid Likely to Command Premium Over $30,000 Gas Model
The Forester Hybrid will likely command a premium price over the gasoline model. While the standard Forester starts at $29,695, the hybrid version is expected to be priced higher, especially for the higher trim levels. Pricing details are still to be confirmed, but it’s anticipated that the hybrid will be sold primarily in the luxury trims, making it a more expensive option.
With hybrid vehicle sales steadily rising in the U.S. market—up 59% year-on-year in the first quarter of 2024—Subaru is looking to tap into this growing segment. Toyota has seen impressive hybrid sales growth, and now Subaru aims to achieve similar success with the Forester Hybrid. With its combination of performance, efficiency, and Subaru’s well-known reliability, the Forester Hybrid has the potential to be a strong contender in the U.S. hybrid SUV market.
