Subaru Australia has officially unveiled the sixth-generation Subaru Forester at the 2025 Melbourne Motor Show, confirming for the first time that the popular SUV will be offered with a new, fuel-efficient hybrid powertrain. The next-generation Forester is due to launch mid-year and is expected to appeal to fleet buyers thanks to its blend of fuel economy, all-wheel drive safety, and practical technology.
As the first Subaru in Australia to feature the brand’s next-generation e-Boxer hybrid system, the all-new Forester Hybrid offers a compelling option for organisations seeking lower emissions and running costs without compromising on capability.
Hybrid Power, Same Subaru Confidence
Under the bonnet, the Forester Hybrid pairs Subaru’s renowned 2.5-litre four-cylinder Boxer engine with an 88kW electric motor and a 1.1kWh battery, working together via Subaru’s Lineartronic® CVT transmission. The result is smooth, quiet operation with excellent off-the-line torque and an estimated driving range of over 1,000km per tank.
This new hybrid setup does not compromise Subaru’s core offering — all hybrid variants continue to feature Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive as standard, alongside the proven X-Mode system for added grip in rough or slippery conditions.
Subaru General Manager Scott Lawrence highlighted the importance of this new hybrid technology:
“The addition of Subaru’s latest Hybrid technology gives drivers the very best Subaru SUV. It’s built to take on real Australian driving — rough roads, unpredictable weather, and everything in between.”
Hybrid Line-Up for Australian Fleets
Subaru will offer three hybrid variants of the Forester, each tailored to suit different driving needs and comfort expectations.
Forester AWD Hybrid
The entry hybrid model is ideal for general fleet duties with a strong focus on safety and functionality:
- e-Boxer hybrid powertrain
- Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive with X-Mode (2 mode)
- Subaru EyeSight® Driver Assist with Emergency Driving Stop System
- 11.6-inch high-definition touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™
- Wireless Qi charging pad
- 9 SRS airbags, including Far Side and Front Passenger Seat Cushion airbags
- Ladder-style roof rails
- Heated front seats
- 18-inch alloy wheels
Forester AWD Hybrid Sport
Suited to drivers who cover longer distances or spend more time behind the wheel, this model adds extra tech and comfort:
- Bronze styling accents and unique exterior detailing
- Satellite navigation and 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster
- Electric sunroof
- Kick-sensor powered tailgate
- Powered front seats with memory settings
- Harman Kardon® 10-speaker audio system
- Enhanced suspension for a smoother ride
- 19-inch bronze alloy wheels
Forester AWD Hybrid Touring
The flagship hybrid is packed with premium features and design touches:
- 19-inch dark grey machined gloss alloy wheels
- Leather and Ultrasuede® accented seat trim (black or brown)
- Ventilated front seats
- Gloss black highlights on front grille, bumpers, side garnish, and mirror caps
- All the same hybrid performance and safety tech as the rest of the range
Safety Front and Centre
True to Subaru’s heritage, every Forester — whether petrol or hybrid — is packed with the latest in driver safety and assistance technology. This includes the most advanced version of Subaru EyeSight® ever offered in Australia, with new features like:
- Wide-angle monocular camera
- Emergency Driving Stop System
- Reverse Automatic Braking
- Front side radar
- Driver Monitoring System (DMS)
With these technologies working alongside Subaru’s nine-airbag system and All-Wheel Drive capability, the Forester remains one of the safest SUVs in its class.
Inside the Cabin
Across the hybrid range, drivers are greeted by a modern cabin that mixes functionality with premium touches. The centrepiece is an 11.6-inch portrait-style infotainment screen with wireless connectivity and charging, while higher-spec models receive a customisable 12.3-inch digital instrument display.
Fleet managers will appreciate the increased driver focus, with the available Driver Monitoring System capable of adjusting mirrors and seats based on saved driver profiles — a real time-saver for shared vehicles.
A Proven SUV, Now with More Efficiency
The Forester has long been a staple of Australian driveways, known for its reliability and real-world practicality. The sixth generation builds on this reputation with class-leading 220mm ground clearance, more muscular styling, and improved interior technology.
For fleets looking to decarbonise without sacrificing range or capability, the new Forester Hybrid offers a ready-to-go solution — no charging infrastructure required.
Petrol Options Still Available
While the hybrid variants are new for 2025, the familiar 2.5-litre petrol Forester remains available across four trims: AWD, AWD Premium, AWD Sport, and AWD Touring. These models share the same CVT, AWD, and advanced safety technologies, making them a strong option for mixed-use fleets or regional areas where simplicity and serviceability are key.
Summary for Fleet Managers:
- Hybrid models available in three trims: AWD Hybrid, AWD Hybrid Sport, AWD Hybrid Touring
- Electric + petrol e-Boxer delivers up to 1,000km+ range
- Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and X-Mode standard across all models
- Latest EyeSight® safety tech with emergency stop assist and driver monitoring
- Wireless Apple CarPlay®/Android Auto™, 11.6” touchscreen, and Qi wireless charging
- Improved comfort and technology make this Forester the most advanced yet
For fleets seeking a capable, efficient, and future-ready SUV, the all-new Forester Hybrid could be the perfect fit.
