2025 Subaru Forester Sport Hybrid - Subaru reliability with better economy

 

I reviewed a non-hybrid Forester back in March of this year. I called it "A Very Nice Tall Wagon." I haven't changed my mind.

Subaru is not known for super fuel efficient vehicles. I don't know why that is, maybe it's something inherent in boxer engines? The Forester Hybrid helps, at least around town. The EPA figures are 35 city, and 34 highway for the Hybrid. A standard Forester is rated at 26 city, and 33 highway. For around town driving the Hybrid is much better.

The Forester Hybrid has a slightly lower horsepower 2.5-liter, flat-four (162 hp versus 180 for the non-hybrid), but adds in an electric motor for a total output of 194 hp. Once again the only transmission is a CVT. Like all Subarus AWD is standard.

The Hybrid weighs over 300 lbs. more than a non-hybrid so acceleration is pretty much unchanged around 8.6 seconds for 0-60.

It's funny but I tend to drive hybrids easier, less throttle on acceleration. I think I subconsciously try to keep the gas engine from kicking in. I must be the exception though because I see many hybrids zooming away from stoplights, or going way over the limit on highways. Strange behavior. Buy a hybrid because they are frugal but then drive like a maniac. 

I don't know if you can see it but the passenger side seatbelt is buckled even though no one is in the seat. I did this because if I didn't the buckle rattled against the trim. It's something that isn't a Subaru specific problem, I've driven other cars that did the same thing. I don't remember the other Forester doing that.

I have to admit that I like Subarus. I've never owned one but I know people who have and they love them. As far as reliability goes, from what I've heard and read, Subaru is right up there with the best. 

You can read my review of the non-hybrid Forester at https://www.brucehotchkiss.net/2025/03/2025-subaru-forester-limited-very-nice.html. The 2025 Subaru Forester Sport Hybrid is just about the same, only more frugal.

The price of a 2025 Subaru Forester Sport Hybrid as on September 5, 2025, is $39,595 per subaru.com. The Sapphire Blue Pearl color is my favorite. You can't go wrong with a Subaru.