The Bottom Line
The Subaru Forester does not try to be trendy. It does not have a massive touchscreen that rotates, frameless doors that open automatically, or an Instagram-worthy design that stops traffic. What it has is symmetrical all-wheel drive that actually works on dirt, the best forward visibility of any SUV in its class, and a reputation for quiet, no-drama reliability that has earned Subaru a devoted following among outdoor-oriented Australians.
Starting from $39,990 driveaway, the Forester Hybrid matches the Mazda CX-5 at entry level while offering something the Mazda cannot — permanent all-wheel drive with genuine off-road capability. For families who regularly drive on unsealed roads, tow to camping spots, or live in regional areas where conditions can change quickly, the Forester's mechanical grip is a genuine safety advantage rather than a marketing bullet point.
The word 'hybrid' in the name requires a caveat. This is a mild hybrid system — it assists the petrol engine with a small electric motor but cannot drive the car on electricity alone. The fuel savings are real but modest, typically 0.5 to 1.0L/100km better than the previous non-hybrid model. It is not in the same league as a Toyota RAV4 Hybrid or Hyundai Tucson Hybrid for fuel efficiency.
What Makes the Forester Different
Subaru's symmetrical all-wheel drive system is fundamentally different from the AWD systems used by most competitors. While cars like the RAV4, Tucson, and Sportage use front-wheel-drive-biased systems that send power to the rear wheels only when slip is detected, the Forester distributes power to all four wheels continuously. This means grip is always available, not just when the system reacts to a loss of traction.
The practical benefit is noticeable on wet roads, gravel tracks, muddy campsite access roads, and snowy mountain approaches. The Forester feels planted and secure in conditions where front-drive SUVs would spin their wheels and wait for the electronic systems to intervene.
Subaru's X-Mode off-road system adds specific calibrations for deep snow and mud, managing throttle, braking, and AWD torque distribution to maintain forward momentum. Hill descent control allows controlled, hands-free descents on steep grades. These are not theoretical capabilities — they work, and they work well enough that many Forester owners confidently take their cars places that RAV4 and Tucson owners would not attempt.
Ground clearance of 220mm is among the highest in the segment, exceeding the RAV4 (195mm), Tucson (178mm), and CX-5 (193mm). This extra clearance makes a meaningful difference on rutted tracks and creek crossings.
The Boxer Engine
Subaru's horizontally opposed (boxer) four-cylinder engine is a unique feature in the segment. The 2.0-litre unit produces 136kW and is paired with an e-Boxer mild hybrid system that adds a small electric motor for low-speed assistance.
The boxer layout sits lower in the chassis than conventional inline engines, contributing to the Forester's lower centre of gravity and more planted handling feel. It also runs with a distinctive smoothness — the balanced firing order eliminates the vibrations common in conventional four-cylinder engines.
Performance is adequate without being exciting. The 136kW output provides sufficient acceleration for most situations, though the CVT transmission allows the engine to drone under hard acceleration — a common complaint with Subaru's powertrain combination.
Real-world fuel consumption is approximately 7.5 to 8.5L/100km in mixed driving. The mild hybrid contribution is modest — expect savings of approximately $150 to $250 per year compared to a pure petrol equivalent. This trails the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid (approximately 5.0-5.5L/100km real-world) significantly.
Interior and Practicality
The Forester's cabin prioritises function over form. Visibility is the standout — thin A-pillars, large windows, and a high seating position provide an unobstructed view in all directions. This makes parking, manoeuvring in tight spaces, and driving on narrow tracks significantly easier than in competitors with fashionably thick pillars and small windows.
The infotainment system uses an 11.6-inch vertical touchscreen on higher grades. The interface is functional but dated compared to Hyundai, Kia, and Toyota's latest systems. It supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which most buyers will use instead of the native software.
Boot space is 509 litres with the rear seats upright — competitive for the class and practical for family use. The boot opening is wide and the floor is flat when the rear seats fold. A full-size spare wheel is available as an option — a genuine advantage for regional and outback driving where a repair kit is not sufficient.
Rear seat space is adequate with enough legroom for adults. The seat base is comfortable and the backrest offers good support. Two ISOFIX points and three top-tether anchors accommodate child seats.
Safety
The Forester has a five-star ANCAP safety rating and comes with Subaru's EyeSight driver assistance system as standard. EyeSight uses stereo cameras to provide pre-collision braking, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, lane sway warning, and lead vehicle start alert.
The system is effective and well-calibrated, intervening smoothly when needed without excessive false alerts. Subaru has one of the strongest safety reputations in the Australian market.
How It Compares
vs Toyota RAV4 GX Hybrid ($45,990+ before on-roads): The RAV4 is more fuel efficient, has better technology, and holds its value better. The Forester has genuine AWD capability, better visibility, and costs $6,000 less. Choose the RAV4 for suburban efficiency; choose the Forester for country capability.
vs Mazda CX-5 G25 Pure ($39,990+): Both cost the same. The CX-5 drives better on road and has a more premium interior. The Forester has permanent AWD and significantly better off-road capability. City buyers should choose the Mazda; country buyers should choose the Subaru.
vs Hyundai Tucson ($40,990+): The Tucson has more technology, bolder styling, and hybrid options. The Forester has better AWD and off-road capability. For suburban families, the Tucson wins. For outdoors-oriented families, the Forester wins.
Who Should Buy the 2025 Subaru Forester Hybrid
The Forester is purpose-built for Australians who actually use their SUV's capability — regional and rural families, camping enthusiasts, skiing and snowboarding families, dog owners who need a muddy-boot-friendly cargo area, and anyone who regularly drives on unsealed roads. Its outstanding visibility also makes it an excellent choice for less confident drivers who find larger, less glassy SUVs intimidating.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
Urban buyers who never leave sealed roads will find better fuel economy in the RAV4 Hybrid and more technology in the Tucson. Driving enthusiasts should choose the Mazda CX-5. And anyone prioritising fuel efficiency should avoid the Forester — its mild hybrid system is the weakest electrification offering in the segment.
RealGuide Verdict: 7.5 out of 10
The Forester is a genuinely capable SUV that earns its place on this list through substance rather than style. It will not impress your neighbours, but it will get you to the campsite when their RAV4 is stuck at the gate. For outdoor-loving Australian families, that capability is worth more than any touchscreen.
The Final Word
"The Forester is built for Australians who use their SUV as more than a shopping trolley. Its symmetrical AWD, generous ground clearance, and outstanding visibility make it genuinely capable on unsealed roads. The mild hybrid system is a token effort, but the overall package is honest, practical, and reliable."