A new era for the Australian SUV segment is a step closer today, with the first mid-sized SUV to pair a strong hybrid system and symmetrical all-wheel drive now available to pre-order. It comes in the form of the sixth-generation Subaru Forester.
Following its public debut at the Melbourne Motor Show, Subaru has today confirmed full Australian pricing and specifications ahead of first vehicle arrivals from July 2025. The new model is expected to be the strongest, smartest and most capable iteration yet.
Priced from $43,490, the Forester line-up includes seven variants: four petrol-only (Forester AWD, AWD Premium, AWD Sport and AWD Touring) and three equipped with Subaru’s most advanced hybrid powertrain yet.
The latter includes AWD Hybrid, AWD Hybrid Sport and AWD Hybrid Touring. A shift in specifications sees a significant boost in standard inclusions on the entry level Forester AWD, over the outgoing 2.5i AWD.
The extensive list include an 11.6-inch high-definition infotainment touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a wireless smartphone charging pad, a 360-degree surround view monitor and enhanced cabin insulation.
Subaru has also improved vibration damping to reduce interior noise and enhanced its ergonomic seating package. On the safety front, every variant gets EyeSight driver assist tech, including a new wide-angle monocular camera.
A new emergency driving stop system, and the Japanese car maker’s vision assist and driver monitoring setup continue. Selected hybrid models also score a 12.3-inch digital driver’s display.
Making its debut in the Forester range, Subaru’s next-generation Hybrid e-Boxer system combines a 2.5-litre Boxer engine with a 90kW electric motor and 1.1kWh battery, delivering a smoother, quieter and more responsive driving experience.
With significantly improved efficiency and a driving range of more than 1,000km per tank, the hybrid variants mark a major leap forward for the Forester nameplate and a pivotal step in Subaru’s electrification journey.
The driving dynamics that Australian customers have come to expect from Subaru have not been lost either, with all variants sporting Subaru’s symmetrical all-wheel drive system, with X-Mode, and an impressive 220mm ground clearance.
Enhanced suspension tuning and new dual-pinion steering also feature.
“The next-generation Forester is stronger, smarter and more capable than ever – and now with Subaru’s most advanced hybrid technology, it’s also more efficient,” Subaru Australia general manager Scott Lawrence said.
“Whether you’re chasing everyday comfort, off-road adventure or driving confidence, Forester delivers in all areas. Every variant brings Subaru’s signature performance, safety and practicality to the fore. We are proud to introduce this exceptional SUV to Australian
customers.”
Customers can place their pre-orders online at subaru.com.au or by contacting their local dealership.
