2025 Subaru Forester: Australian Buyer's Guide

Hey guys, let's dive into the much-anticipated 2025 Subaru Forester review Australia has been waiting for! Subaru has really been cooking something special with this latest iteration, and we're here to break down everything you need to know before you head to the dealership. Whether you're a seasoned Forester fan or a curious newcomer, this review will cover the nitty-gritty of what makes the 2025 model a compelling choice in the crowded SUV market down under. We'll be looking at its performance, interior comforts, safety features, and importantly, how it stacks up for Aussie conditions. Subaru has a reputation for building tough, capable vehicles, and the Forester has always been a shining example. So, buckle up as we explore the innovations and refinements that the 2025 model brings to the table, making it a serious contender for your next family car or adventure buddy.

What's New for the 2025 Subaru Forester?

So, what's the big deal with the 2025 Subaru Forester review Australia edition? Well, Subaru has been busy! One of the most significant upgrades is under the hood. They've moved away from the older engine to a new, more powerful, and importantly, more efficient 2.5-litre naturally aspirated Boxer engine. This engine is paired with an updated version of Subaru's Lineartronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission), which they claim offers smoother acceleration and better fuel economy. For us Aussies, who often face long drives and varying fuel prices, that's a win! On the exterior, the 2025 Forester gets a pretty substantial facelift. Think a bolder grille, redesigned headlights and taillights that give it a more aggressive and modern stance. The overall design language is more angular, giving it a rugged yet sophisticated look that should appeal to a wide range of buyers. They've also tinkered with the suspension, aiming for an even more comfortable ride without sacrificing that renowned Forester capability. This means it should handle the bumps and unsealed roads common in many parts of Australia even better. Interior-wise, expect a refreshed cabin with upgraded materials, a larger central touchscreen that integrates better with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and more user-friendly controls. Subaru is also big on tech, so we're seeing the latest iteration of their EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, which is pretty impressive for keeping you and your family safe on our often-treacherous roads.

Performance and Driving Dynamics

When it comes to performance, the 2025 Subaru Forester review Australia highlights its new 2.5-litre Boxer engine as a major talking point. This engine delivers a respectable 124kW of power and 236Nm of torque. Now, it's not going to win any drag races, but for everyday driving, weekend getaways, and tackling varied Australian terrain, it's more than adequate. What's really impressive is how Subaru has managed to improve its efficiency. They're quoting improved fuel economy figures, which is a godsend for anyone who does a lot of driving. The updated CVT transmission is also a big improvement. It feels less 'slushy' than previous versions and does a better job of keeping the engine in its sweet spot for acceleration or economical cruising. Of course, the Forester wouldn't be a Forester without its Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, and it's better than ever. This system is legendary for its grip and stability, especially in wet conditions or on loose surfaces – think gravel roads or slippery boat ramps. It constantly monitors traction and distributes power between the wheels to keep you moving forward confidently. Subaru has also tweaked the chassis and suspension for the 2025 model. The ride is noticeably smoother and more compliant, soaking up bumps and undulations on the road with ease. This is a huge plus for anyone who spends a lot of time driving on less-than-perfect Australian roads. Handling is sharp and predictable. While it's not a sports car, the Forester feels planted and secure through corners, with minimal body roll. The steering is well-weighted, providing good feedback, so you always feel connected to what the front wheels are doing. For those who like to venture off the beaten path, the Forester offers excellent ground clearance and approach/departure angles, making it surprisingly capable on light off-road trails. It's this blend of comfortable on-road manners and genuine off-road ability that has always set the Forester apart, and the 2025 model continues that tradition with aplomb.

Interior Comfort and Technology

Stepping inside the 2025 Subaru Forester review Australia edition, you'll immediately notice the refined interior. Subaru has really upped their game in terms of material quality and design. The dashboard feels more modern, with soft-touch plastics and well-placed controls. The seats are comfortable and supportive, especially on longer journeys, and there's plenty of space for both front and rear passengers. For a family SUV, rear legroom and headroom are excellent, meaning even adults won't feel cramped in the back. Boot space is also generous, offering ample room for groceries, luggage, or camping gear for those weekend adventures. One of the standout features is the new 8-inch or 11.6-inch infotainment system, depending on the trim level. This screen is much more responsive and visually appealing than before. The integration of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is seamless, making it easy to connect your smartphone for navigation, music, and calls. Subaru has also made the climate controls more intuitive, often featuring physical buttons and dials alongside the touchscreen, which many drivers prefer for ease of use while on the move. Higher trims get goodies like heated and ventilated front seats, a premium sound system, and a panoramic sunroof, adding to the overall sense of comfort and luxury. Tech-wise, the Forester is loaded. Subaru's latest EyeSight Driver Assist Technology is standard on most models, and it’s a game-changer. This suite includes features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, pre-collision braking, and lead vehicle start alert. These systems work together to reduce driver fatigue and enhance safety, particularly on long highway stretches common across Australia. Other tech highlights include keyless entry and push-button start, multiple USB ports for charging devices, and a decent digital display within the instrument cluster that provides essential driving information at a glance. Subaru has clearly focused on creating an interior that is both practical and pleasant to be in, whether you're navigating city streets or tackling a cross-country road trip.

Safety Features: Peace of Mind on Australian Roads

Safety is, and always has been, a massive priority for Subaru, and the 2025 Subaru Forester review Australia confirms this. This vehicle is packed to the rafters with cutting-edge safety features, designed to protect you and your loved ones on our unique Australian roads. The star of the show is the Subaru EyeSight Driver Assist Technology. This advanced system acts like a second pair of eyes on the road. It uses dual cameras mounted behind the windscreen to monitor traffic, identify potential hazards, and can even apply the brakes automatically if a collision is imminent. Features within EyeSight include: Adaptive Cruise Control, which maintains a set distance from the car in front, taking the stress out of highway driving; Pre-Collision Braking, which helps avoid or mitigate impacts with other vehicles or pedestrians; Lane Departure Warning and Lane Keep Assist, which gently guides you back into your lane if you start to drift unintentionally; and Lead Vehicle Start Alert, which notifies you when traffic ahead has started moving. Beyond EyeSight, the 2025 Forester comes standard with a comprehensive airbag system, including front, side, curtain, and even a driver's knee airbag. Its robust construction, renowned for its Subaru Global Platform, provides exceptional rigidity and crash protection. All models also feature a reversing camera as standard, making parking in tight spots much easier and safer. Higher trim levels often add extras like Blind Spot Monitoring, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, and Front View Monitor, further enhancing situational awareness. Subaru's commitment to safety is consistently recognised with high ANCAP (Australasian New Car Assessment Program) safety ratings, and the 2025 Forester is expected to continue this trend, offering five-star safety as a minimum. This focus on proactive and passive safety systems gives drivers incredible peace of mind, knowing they're protected by one of the safest vehicles on the market, whether navigating the urban jungle or exploring the vast Australian outback.

Australian Conditions: How Does It Stack Up?

So, how does the 2025 Subaru Forester review Australia fit into our specific driving landscape? Pretty darn well, guys. We all know Australia is a massive continent with incredibly diverse road conditions. From the smooth highways of the eastern seaboard to the corrugated dirt tracks of the Red Centre and the slippery, wet roads of Tasmania, the Forester is built to handle it all. The Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) is the absolute hero here. It provides confidence-inspiring grip in virtually any situation, be it torrential rain, loose gravel, or even a bit of mud. This is crucial for Australian drivers who often encounter unpredictable weather or need to access less-travelled areas. Subaru's X-MODE system, which is standard on most Forester models, further enhances its off-road capability. It optimises engine output, transmission, and AWD system for challenging surfaces, making it incredibly easy to navigate steep inclines, descents, and slippery terrain with just the press of a button. This is perfect for those weekend trips to national parks or coastal camping spots that are off the main highway. The generous ground clearance (around 220mm) is another massive advantage for Australia. It means you don't have to worry as much about scraping the underbody on rough roads, logs, or rocks. Combined with the good approach and departure angles, the Forester can tackle moderate off-road tracks that would leave many other SUVs struggling. We also need to talk about the ride comfort. The updated suspension does a superb job of soaking up the rough stuff. Australian roads can be notoriously bumpy, and the Forester's ability to smooth out these imperfections makes for a far more comfortable and less fatiguing journey, especially on long-haul drives. Furthermore, the fuel efficiency from the new 2.5-litre engine, while not class-leading, is respectable and should offer a good balance for those who need AWD capability without guzzling fuel excessively. Finally, the robust build quality that Subaru is known for means the Forester should hold up well against the demands of Australian touring and everyday use. It’s a car designed to be lived in and used, not just for show.

Verdict: Is the 2025 Subaru Forester Worth It?

Wrapping up our 2025 Subaru Forester review Australia perspective, the big question is: is it worth your hard-earned cash? Absolutely, guys. Subaru has taken a winning formula and made it even better. The 2025 Forester offers a compelling package of performance, comfort, technology, and legendary safety, all wrapped up in a practical and capable SUV body. The introduction of the updated 2.5-litre Boxer engine brings improved efficiency and a smoother driving experience, while the refined interior and enhanced infotainment system make it a pleasant place to spend time. The standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and X-MODE continue to set it apart, providing genuine capability for Australian conditions, from slick city streets to challenging rural roads. And let's not forget the top-tier safety features with the EyeSight system, giving you invaluable peace of mind. While it might not have the most powerful engine in its class or the most cutting-edge futuristic styling, the Forester excels in its all-round competence and value. It’s a sensible, reliable, and incredibly versatile vehicle that appeals to a wide demographic, from young families to active retirees. If you're looking for an SUV that can handle just about anything Australia throws at it, offers excellent safety, and is comfortable and practical for daily life, the 2025 Subaru Forester should be very high on your list. It’s a true testament to Subaru’s engineering prowess and understanding of what drivers in Australia truly need in an SUV. Definitely worth a test drive!