- Sixth-generation Subaru Forester gets hybrid powertrain in 2025
- The powertrain will likely be the new Strong Hybrid with improved electric motor
- Rugged Forester Wilderness also in the works
Subaru has offered hybrid versions of the Forester in other markets for years, but an electrified version of the popular compact crossover is finally coming to the U.S., and a prototype has been spotted for the first time.
It is based on current sixth generation Forester which debuted last year as a 2025 model. The new Forester Hybrid is expected to go on sale late next year as a 2026 model.
Other than confirming plans for the Forester Hybrid during the launch of the regular Forester last year, Subaru has said little about what to expect.
However, under the hood there is expected to be a new hybrid powertrain developed in partnership with Toyota. Mazda also involved in the partnership which was announced earlier this year.
Subaru strong hybrid powertrain
Referred to by Subaru as a “Strong Hybrid,” the new powertrain has already debuted in a Crosstrek Hybrid in Japan and combines an optimized hybrid version of Subaru’s signature 2.5-liter flat-4 engine with an electric motor and battery developed by Subaru. Toyota. .
Compared to Subaru’s previous hybrid engines, the electric motor in the Strong Hybrid configuration provides significantly more power to allow the vehicle to travel on electric power longer and let the gasoline engine operate longer in its most efficient ranges, even while serving purely as a generator at some points. Drive still goes to all four wheels through a mechanical all-wheel drive system.
In the Crosstrek Hybrid launched in Japan, the The 2.5-liter flat-4 delivers 158 hp alone, while the electric motor delivers 88 hp. The battery has a capacity of 1.1 kWh. Subaru hasn’t revealed all the details, but it has said the new Crosstrek Hybrid will use about 20 percent less gasoline than its predecessor, while also being able to reach 0 to 60 mph two seconds faster.
The Forester Hybrid isn’t the only new addition to the Forester lineup. A beefier Forester Wilderness model is also expected to join the lineup for 2026. Like the previous Forester Wildernessthe new one should come with extra ground clearance and off-road tires.