Talking Cars 478: Driving the Subaru Forester Hybrid

Main theme: In this podcast episode, we give our driving impressions of the all-new 2025 Subaru Forester Hybrid. Adding a hybrid powertrain to the recently redesigned Forester is a smart choice because it should better position the highly rated small SUV to compete with its prime rivals, many of which have offered hybrids for several years. 

The automaker took a decidedly “Subaru” approach, augmenting its distinctive 2.5-liter flat-four “boxer” engine with Toyota-sourced hardware to create an efficient hybrid powertrain. But because Subaru often likes to steer down its own unique road, the Forester Hybrid uses a full-time mechanical all-wheel-drive system. This differs from other small hybrid SUVs, which use an electric motor at the rear to provide limited all-wheel-drive capability. 

Our panelists discuss the benefits that the hybrid powertrain brings to the Forester, and debate which, if any, aspects are worse than with the conventionally powered model. We wrap up the Subie segment by giving our opinions as to whether we’d choose the Forester Hybrid if we were doing the buying, or go with a different small hybrid SUV.

Of note, the Forester is the first Subaru model to receive this next-generation hybrid powertrain. A Crosstrek Hybrid with matching specifications will soon follow.

Read our Subaru Forester Hybrid first drive review.

Audience Questions
• Vehicles seem to be getting undesirably techy, which makes me wonder if I should lock in a backup car such as a mid-2010s Lexus GS or IS. Could such a purchase future-proof my transportation portfolio?

• Will using premium fuel in my vehicle, when the automaker “recommends” it, deliver improved performance?