Subaru Forester debuts at Melbourne motor show

A NEW ERA FOR THE AUSTRALIAN SUV SEGMENT is a step closer today, with the first mid-sized SUV with a strong hybrid system powering Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive now open for official pre-order.

Following its public debut at the Melbourne Motor Show, Subaru has today confirmed full Australian pricing and specifications for its sixth-generation Forester ahead of first vehicle arrivals from July 2025.

The next-generation Forester is the strongest, smartest and most capable iteration yet – reengineered to deliver greater everyday usability, enhanced efficiency, and even more confidence on and off the road.

Priced from $43,490 (plus on road costs), 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 (Forester AWD Hybrid, AWD Hybrid Sport and AWD Hybrid Touring).

The new model range has been re-engineered inside and out, with more features demanded by Australian customers as standard across the range plus an expanded hybrid offering. This shift results in a significant boost in specification to the entry Forester variant, the Forester AWD, over the outgoing 2.5i AWD.

Making its debut in the Forester range, Subaru’s next-generation strong 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 over 1000km per tank, the all-new Hybrid marks a major leap forward for the Forester nameplate and a pivotal step in Subaru’s electrification journey. What’s more, the driving dynamics that Australian customers have come to expect from Subaru has not been lost, with all powertrain and variants centred around Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system.

With impressive 220mm ground clearance, standard X-Mode, enhanced suspension tuning and new dual-pinion steering for improved precision and response, the all-new Forester remains purpose-built to tackle Australian roads and terrain with confidence.

Every all-new Forester – hybrid or petrol – features Subaru’s legendary Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, delivering constant traction to all four wheels for all-weather control. It’s an always-on system, proactively shifting power to where it’s needed most. And in hybrid variants, instant torque further enhances grip and low-speed control.

Inside, the Forester has been revamped to elevate comfort, connectivity and cabin refinement. Key features across the range include:

  • 11.6-inch high-definition infotainment touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
  • Qi wireless smartphone charging pad
  • 12.3-inch digital driver display (on select hybrid variants)
  • 360-degree Surround View Monitor for increased visibility and off-road confidence
  • Enhanced cabin insulation and vibration damping for reduced interior noise
  • Ergonomic seating for increased comfort

Safety is at the core of Forester’s DNA. Subaru’s latest-generation EyeSight Driver Assist technology is now standard across all models – featuring a new wide-angle monocular camera offering a wider field of view, and the new Emergency Driving Stop System6 Subaru Vision Assist, a Driver Monitoring System and nine airbags further strengthen Subaru’s commitment to occupant protection and its goal of zero fatal accidents in Subaru vehicles by 2030.

“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,” said General Manager of Subaru Australia, Scott Lawrence.

“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.”

ALL-NEW SUBARU FORESTER MANUFACTURER’S LIST PRICE

Forester AWD $43,490
Forester AWD Premium $46,490
Forester AWD Sport $48,490
Forester AWD Touring $50,990
Forester AWD Hybrid $46,490
Forester AWD Hybrid Sport $54,990
Forester AWD Hybrid Touring $55,990

All plus on road costs

WARRANTY: Five-year/unlimited kilometre warranty period, 12-months complimentary Subaru Roadside Assistance with Club membership.

HYBRID BATTERY WARRANTY: Eight-year/160,000km.

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