Forester Frenzy: Subaru’s 2025 Compact SUV Levels Up (Mostly)
- jsibaja
- Dec 24, 2024
- 3 min read
Let’s face it—choosing a new car is like picking out a pair of shoes. You want something reliable, stylish, and versatile enough to tackle anything from a grocery run to a weekend adventure. Enter the 2025 Subaru Forester, the Swiss Army knife of compact SUVs. It’s had a glow-up for its sixth generation, boasting more space, extra tech, and some swanky new features. But is it worth the hype—or just another midweek rerun? Let’s dig in.
Performance: "Good Vibes, Meh Thrills"
Pop the hood, and you’ll find a 2.5-liter flat-four engine pushing out 180 horsepower. Now, don’t expect fireworks. The Forester won’t win any drag races, but it’s perfectly fine for a chill Sunday drive or a trek up to your favorite hiking spot. The all-wheel drive is standard, as always, and there’s enough ground clearance to tackle trails that would send a sedan packing.
Subaru also tossed in a dual-pinion steering rack borrowed from the sporty WRX sedan. Sounds exciting, right? Well, don’t get too giddy—it doesn’t quite make the Forester a thrill ride. Steering feedback is light, and cornering can feel a bit wobbly. But if you’re more about soaking in the scenery than racing to the destination, this Forester’s smooth ride is just what the doctor ordered.
Comfort: "Like a Cozy Coffee Shop on Wheels"
Inside, Subaru nailed the basics—and then some. Think spacious, cushy seats with optional heating and ventilation for the front row. In the back, adults can stretch out without playing a round of Tetris with their knees. There’s more sound dampening this year, so conversations won’t feel like a shouting match on the highway.
Need to haul your latest IKEA haul? Fold down those 60/40 rear seats, and voilà—75 cubic feet of cargo space at your service. Oh, and roof rails are standard for all your kayak-and-camping-adventure dreams. Subaru also added a foot-activated, hands-free power tailgate, perfect for when your hands are full of groceries—or you’re just showing off.
Safety and Driver Assistance: "Subaru’s Got Your Back (and Front)"
When it comes to safety, the Forester doesn’t mess around. Subaru’s EyeSight driver-assistance suite is standard, offering features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. Translation? It’s like having a co-pilot who’s always alert—even when you’re jamming out to your road trip playlist.
The optional 360-degree camera system and parking sensors make squeezing into tight spots a breeze. And if you’ve ever panicked about backing out of a busy driveway, the rear cross-traffic alert will feel like your guardian angel.
Price: "Affordable, With a Sprinkle of Luxe"
Starting at $31,230, the Forester offers a lot of bang for your buck. If you’re willing to splurge, the Sport trim is where it’s at, adding bronze accents, heated seats, and an 11.6-inch touchscreen that feels more high-tech than some home entertainment systems. Pricing goes up to $41,390 for the top-of-the-line Touring trim. Not bad for a compact SUV that’s as practical as it is polished.
Final Thoughts: "For the Quiet Adventurer"
The 2025 Subaru Forester isn’t trying to be the life of the party. Instead, it’s that dependable friend who’s always ready to carpool, carry your camping gear, or brave a snowstorm without a complaint. Sure, it’s not the most exciting to drive, but its comfort, versatility, and safety features more than make up for that.
So, whether you’re a city dweller juggling parking spots or an outdoor enthusiast craving weekend getaways, the Forester delivers the goods. It’s not perfect—but then again, who is?
