We’re seeing more and more automakers fill in the gaps in their lineups with electrification, like adding a hybrid twist to a legacy model. Subaru has done just that with the 2025 Forester Hybrid, and they’ve done it in a way that doesn’t sacrifice any of the original’s strengths.

First, the powertrain is still all-wheel drive, spurred by a familiar 2.5-liter boxer-four paired with Subaru’s next-generation hybrid system and a Lineartronic CVT; and while its 194-horsepower output is appreciated, more so are its fuel economy figures. We’re talking 35 mpgs combined, with eight hours of California drive time getting us closer to 37.

BEN DAVIS: “What I like the most, and I think what most loyal Forester buyers are going to like the most about this hybrid is that there’s no compromise over the regular gasoline version Forester, especially in regards to fuel tank size. It’s the same 16.6-gallon tank, and in the Hybrid, where you’re getting a mixed 35 miles to the gallon, that equals a 581-mile range. You do have to give up a spare tire for that, but it’s a small price to pay, I guess.”

Some light off-roading further showcased the Hybrid’s capabilities, exactly what we’d expect from a Forester.

The exterior is nearly identical to the gas-only model, except for wearing the appropriate “hybrid” badging. Inside, a 12.3-inch gauge cluster and 11.6-inch tablet-style touchscreen come standard. If you’re at all familiar with the current Forester, this interior will look very familiar.

And pricing for the 2025 Subaru Forester Hybrid is, fortunately, in familiar territory, too, starting around $35,000, about five-grand more than the Base gas model.