2025 Subaru Forester Hybrid returns to the hybrid segment

Subaru is hoping to capture renewed interest in hybrid vehicles next year with the launch of the 2025 Forester Hybrid.

Subaru's website already offers the option to purchase a hybrid vehicle, and the company has confirmed that deliveries will begin in the middle of next year.

Subaru has not had a hybrid vehicle, at least in the U.S., since the Crosstrek Hybrid ceased production at the end of 2023. Subaru does have an electric vehicle, the Soltera, but the arrival of the Forester Hybrid marks the brand's return to the hybrid segment.

The Forester Hybrid will be based on the sixth-generation Forester, also redesigned for the 2025 model year, which was introduced earlier this year. Subaru also offers the previous Forester Wilderness as a 2025 model.

A camouflaged prototype of the Forester Hybrid has been spotted. Judging from the prototype, there is little to differentiate the electrified crossover from the regular model, except perhaps a badge.

The powertrain appears to be a newly developed setup known as the Subaru Strong Hybrid. Already debuted in Japan with the Crosstrek Hybrid, it combines a hybrid-optimized version of Subaru's signature 2.5-liter flat-4 engine with an electric motor and battery more powerful than Subaru's previous hybrid systems. The electric motor was developed by Toyota.

In the Crosstrek Hybrid launched in Japan, the 2.5-liter flat-4 delivers 158 hp on its own and the electric motor delivers 88 hp. The battery has a capacity of 1.1 kwh. Subaru has not disclosed details, but says the new Crosstrek Hybrid will reduce gasoline consumption by about 20% over its predecessor while shaving 2 seconds off the 0-60 mph time.

Subaru fans have even more to look forward to in the near future. The redesigned Outback has been spotted test driving, and a rugged Wilderness version of the latest Forester is likely to arrive eventually.