Subaru is making an electrifying comeback to the hybrid market with the 2025 Subaru Forester Hybrid, expected to hit dealerships by mid-2025. This marks the brand’s return to hybrid offerings in the U.S. since the Crosstrek Hybrid was discontinued in late 2023. Deliveries for the Forester Hybrid can already be reserved on Subaru’s official site.
Subaru’s Hybrid Comeback
After a brief absence from U.S. hybrid markets, Subaru is leveraging the growing demand for more fuel-efficient vehicles. The 2025 Subaru Forester Hybrid will bridge this gap while complementing its all-electric Solterra model. Subaru enthusiasts can anticipate an updated hybrid system that combines innovation with the company’s hallmark reliability.
The Forester Hybrid is built on the facelifted sixth-generation Forester platform, which debuted earlier this year. For those still interested in past models, Subaru is also maintaining the previous-generation Forester Wilderness for the 2025 model year.
The refreshed 2025 Subaru Forester will serve as the base for Subaru’s highly anticipated hybrid variant.
Electrified Powertrain Developed with Toyota
The Forester Hybrid’s drivetrain is expected to feature Subaru’s advanced “Subaru Strong Hybrid” system, co-developed with Toyota for improved performance and efficiency. This system has already debuted in the Crosstrek Hybrid in Japan. Here’s a breakdown:
- 2.5-liter flat-4 engine with hybrid optimization
- Electric motor output: 88 horsepower
- Battery capacity: 1.1 kWh
This pairing promises reduced fuel consumption—approximately 20% less gas compared to previous systems—with improved acceleration, shaving two seconds off the Crosstrek Hybrid’s 0-60 mph time. Although final U.S.-specific specs aren’t confirmed, the setup anticipates strong performance and improved efficiency for this compact SUV.
The Subaru Strong Hybrid platform combines innovative engineering for efficiency and power.
Subtle Design Differences
Recent spy shots of camouflaged Forester Hybrid prototypes provide a glimpse of what to expect. The hybrid variant’s exterior is expected to remain largely unchanged compared to the standard Forester, aside from minor design features such as hybrid badges. This approach keeps the model’s rugged aesthetic intact while focusing on what’s under the hood.
What Else is Coming From Subaru?
Subaru is not stopping at just the Forester Hybrid. A redesigned Outback is rumored to be in the works, with prototypes already spotted during road testing. Additionally, enthusiasts may soon get a Wilderness version of the Forester Hybrid for adventures beyond the pavement.
Forester Hybrid vs. Current Standards
Feature |
2025 Subaru Forester Hybrid |
Previous Subaru Hybrid Systems |
|---|---|---|
Engine |
2.5-Liter Flat-4 Engine |
2.0-Liter Engine |
Electric Motor Output |
88 HP |
13.4 HP |
Fuel Economy Improvement |
~20% Better |
Standard |
Expected Release |
Mid-2025 |
Crosstrek Hybrid: 2020-2023 |
The introduction of the Forester Hybrid reaffirms Subaru’s focus on more fuel-efficient and eco-friendly vehicles while sticking to its SUV roots, giving buyers the best of both worlds: performance and sustainability.
