Next-generation Subaru Forester arrives in Australia with hybrid upgrade

Subaru Australia has introduced the sixth-generation Subaru Forester, now available nationwide in a range of petrol and hybrid variants.

The latest Forester debuts a new Strong Hybrid e-Boxer powertrain that pairs a 2.5-litre Boxer engine with a 90kW electric motor, producing 145kW of combined power—an increase of nearly 32% over the previous mild hybrid model.

The hybrid variants deliver improved performance and fuel efficiency, with Subaru quoting a combined driving range of over 1,000km based on ADR testing. This is the first Forester—and the first in its class—to combine mechanical Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) with a strong hybrid system.

Petrol-only models continue with a revised version of Subaru’s 2.5-litre Boxer engine, now rated at 136kW and 247Nm, paired with an updated Lineartronic CVT transmission. All variants feature Symmetrical AWD, 220mm ground clearance, and X-Mode with Hill Descent Control.

The new Forester also introduces dual-pinion electric power steering, aiming to improve precision and road feel. Suspension and structural refinements have also been made, with Subaru claiming increased chassis rigidity and reduced cabin noise.

Inside, the Forester gains a new horizontal dash layout, an 11.6-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a wireless charging pad. Higher-spec hybrid models include a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a Harman Kardon premium audio system. Interior space has been modestly increased, and boot capacity remains up to 1719 litres with the rear seats folded.

A five-star ANCAP safety rating applies to the new model. All grades come equipped with Subaru’s latest EyeSight Driver Assist System, which now includes a wide-angle monocular camera and Emergency Driving Stop System (EDSS). Additional standard safety equipment includes Driver Monitoring System, Vision Assist features with a 360-degree camera system, and nine airbags.

There are seven variants in total—four petrol and three hybrid—priced from $43,490 to $55,990 before on-road costs. Subaru’s capped price servicing programme applies across the range, with servicing costs capped at $2,299 over the first five years. Hybrid models also carry an 8-year/160,000km warranty on the high-voltage battery.

Retail availability has commenced, with vehicles now arriving at Subaru dealerships across Australia.