(Reading time: 3 - 6 minutes)

The All-New Subaru Forester: A Rugged, Refined SUV for Every Adventure

Subaru has done it again, folks! We had the pleasure of attending the UK launch of the all-new Subaru Forester e-BOXER, and let us tell you—it’s shaping up to be an absolute beast of an SUV. Subaru has taken everything we loved about the previous Forester and cranked it up a notch, delivering improved driving dynamics, enhanced tech, and rugged, go-anywhere capability. Starting at £38,995, this new generation Forester isn’t just another SUV—it’s a proper adventure machine.

So What’s New?
  • Stronger chassis – 10% increase in rigidity for better handling and ride comfort.
  • Updated hybrid powertrain – e-BOXER system refined for smoother power delivery.
  • Subaru’s legendary Permanent Symmetrical AWD – because proper SUVs shouldn’t be FWD.
  • 220mm ground clearance – class-leading, because the Forester laughs in the face of rough terrain.
  • Enhanced X-MODE – takes off-road capability to another level.
  • Upgraded EyeSight Driver Assist – now with five new safety features.
  • Fresh new look inside and out – modernised styling with a high-tech, comfort-driven cabin.
Refined Yet Rugged: Chassis & Performance

Built on the evolved Subaru Global Platform, the new Forester now features full inner-frame construction and increased structural adhesive use. What does that mean? A tougher, more rigid chassis that translates to better ride quality, improved cornering, and an even more planted feel on the road. Add in upgraded suspension mounting points, and you’ve got a Forester that’s sharper than ever behind the wheel.

Of course, Subaru’s signature Permanent Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive remains, ensuring top-tier traction in all conditions. Whether you’re tackling muddy tracks, snow-covered roads, or just your local Tesco car park in a storm, the Forester’s AWD system has got your back.

The e-BOXER hybrid powertrain has also been refined, boasting 24 key improvements to its 2.0L horizontally opposed four-cylinder engine. Paired with Subaru’s Lineartronic transmission, this setup delivers seamless acceleration and optimised efficiency, all while maintaining Subaru’s bulletproof reliability.

New to the Forester is dual-pinion electric power steering (EPS), which provides a quicker, more natural steering response. This makes a world of difference whether you’re navigating tight country roads or manoeuvring through urban traffic.

Unrivalled Off-Road Capability

If there’s one thing Subaru does better than most, it’s building proper, capable SUVs. The new Forester is no exception, combining class-leading ground clearance (220mm) with an improved X-MODE terrain system.

Let’s talk numbers:

  • Approach angle: 20.4°
  • Ramp breakover angle: 25.7°
  • Departure angle: 21.0°
  • Towing capacity: 1,870kg

In short? The Forester goes places most other crossovers wouldn’t dare. Whether it’s muddy tracks, rocky trails, or deep snow, this SUV is built to handle it all.

Next-Level Safety: EyeSight 4.0 & More

Subaru has always been a leader in safety, and the new Forester continues that legacy with its latest-gen EyeSight Driver Assist Technology. This version features 15 safety functions, including five brand-new features.

One of the standout additions is the Emergency Driving Stop System, a Subaru-first. If the driver becomes unresponsive, the system takes action, bringing the car to a safe stop. Combine this with an upgraded Driver Monitoring System, and Subaru is setting a new standard for road safety.

Other enhancements include:
  • Wide-angle monocular camera & new front radar – improved hazard detection.
  • New front seat centre airbag & passenger seat cushion airbag – enhanced crash protection.
  • Revised front bumper beam layout – increases energy absorption during collisions.

Subaru’s legendary safety record remains one of the strongest in the industry, making the Forester one of the safest SUVs money can buy.

Interior Upgrades: Comfort Meets Tech

Inside, the new Forester has been completely modernised with improved refinement, better materials, and high-tech convenience features.

Key Upgrades:

  • 39% reduction in cabin noise – quieter, more relaxed drives.
  • New front seats – reduced head sway by 44%, meaning more comfort on long journeys.
  • Improved conversation clarity – 3.4% better in the front, 12.5% better in the rear.

All-new 11.6-inch Full HD infotainment system – intuitive, responsive, and still has physical buttons for key functions (because Subaru understands the struggle of touch-only controls in bumpy conditions!).

Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto – stay connected wherever you go.

New navigation system – supports Apple Maps and what3words for pinpoint accuracy, no matter how remote the destination.

Type-C and Type-A charging ports – because we all have different charging needs!

Boot space? Generous as ever:
  • 508L with seats up
  • 1,720L with seats folded

And for added convenience, the new Forester also comes with an optional hands-free power tailgate—perfect for when your hands are full after a day of adventuring.

Trim Levels & Pricing – The Forester is available in three well-equipped trims:

LIMITED - from £38,995.00 on the road – comes with:
EyeSight 4.0
18” Alloy Wheels
Illuminated Ports & Wireless Charger
Memory Driver Seats
Electrically Adjustable & Heated Front Seats
Auto-Dimming Rear View Mirror
Wireless Apple CarPlay™ & Android Auto™
360° Surround View Camera

FIELD – from £40,440.00 on the road – fitted with:
Everything in LIMITED, plus:
Privacy Glass
Heated Steering Wheel
Powered Gesture Tailgate
Built-in Satellite Navigation

TOURING – from £42,995.00 on the road – fitted with:
Everything in FIELD, plus:
19” Alloy Wheels
Heated Rear Seats
Power Sliding UV Glass Sunroof
Black Leather Interior Trim

Final Thoughts: Why the New Forester Deserves Your Attention

The all-new Subaru Forester is not just another SUV—it’s a statement. It’s rugged yet refined, high-tech yet simple to use, safe yet seriously fun to drive. Whether you’re heading into the mountains, tackling muddy country lanes, or simply doing the school run in a storm, the Forester has got your back.

For those who need a true all-weather, all-terrain family SUV, the Forester delivers in spades. And with a starting price of £38,995, it’s a serious contender against the competition. So, is the new Forester the ultimate adventure-ready SUV? We certainly think so. Let us know what you think in the comments—would you take this over a Land Rover Defender or Toyota RAV4?

 

 @subaruuk  #subaruforester #forester #forester2025 #subarusuv #awdsuv #offroadsuv #subaruuk

@subaruuk  #subaruforester #forester #forester2025 #subarusuv #awdsuv #offroadsuv #subaruuk

Pin It
 

Northern Group of Motoring Writers NGMW 

Members of The Northern Group Of Motoring Writers