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