Subaru has introduced two new versions of one of its most popular vehicles.

The automaker announced a new Forester powered by a hybrid powertrain as well as a new rugged Wilderness version of the Forester.

Let’s take a look at both models, one by one.

Forester e-Boxer Hybrid

The Forester e-Boxer Hybrid is launching as a 2025 model and will be available this spring.

This model gets Subaru’s next generation e-Boxer hybrid powertrain that pairs a 2.5-litre Atkinson-cycle boxer engine, electric motors and its symmetrical full-time all-wheel drive and a Lineartronic continuously variable transmission.

Total system output is 194 hp and Subaru says this model is more fuel efficient than the non-hybrid Forester, without sacrificing any capability.

The compact SUV features X-Mode with hill descent control, active torque vectoring and vehicle dynamics control, has a relatively high 220-millimetre ground clearance while also having a low step-in height.

Various advanced safety features are standard, including the latest version of Subaru’s EyeSight driver assist technology, plus the SUV comes standard with a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster with navigation and Apple Maps capability and an 11.6-inch multimedia screen, which has wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.

Pricing will be announced closer to the 2025 Subaru Forester e-Boxer Hybrid’s on-sale date.

Forester Wilderness

The Forester Wilderness is launching for the 2026 model year and is expected to arrive at dealerships in the fall of 2025.

This model is described as the most capable and rugged Forester ever.

This model is powered by a non-hybrid 2.5-litre boxer engine producing 180 hp and 178 lb.-ft. of torque.

The Forester Wilderness includes advanced dual-function X-Mode, symmetrical full-time all-wheel drive, all-terrain tires, upgraded suspension and enhanced cooling.

The Lineartronic CVT gets revised with a shorter final drive ration to improve off-road capability and the dual-function X-Mode allows for snow/dirt and deep snow/mud settings.

Subaru adds the Wilderness benefits from the Forester’s revised all-wheel-drive system that features faster centre differential lockup and reduced wheelspin when off-roading. It also incorporates steering angle data for improved stability at turn-in and cornering on higher-speed roads.

Thanks to an enhanced transmission cooler, towing capacity is 3,500 pounds. There’s also a rear differential temperature sensor.

The Wilderness also allows for greater approach, departure and breakover angles over standard Forester models.

Angles are:

• Approach – 23.5 degrees, up from 19 degrees
• Ramp breakover – 21 degrees, up from 19.6 degrees
• Departure – 25.5 degrees, up from 24.6 degrees

On the styling front, the Wilderness model gets standard roof rails with a static 363-kilogram capacity (80-kilogram dynamic), LED hexagonal fog lights, underbody protection and expanded anodized copper-finish exterior accents, including front and rear bumper tow hook covers.

On the inside, there’s soft-touch all-weather upholstery, exclusive anodized copper-finish interior accents, 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster with Wilderness-exclusive graphics and navigation.

Pricing will be announced closer to the Subaru Forester Wilderness’s on-sale date.

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