The wait is over. The all-new Subaru Forester has officially landed in Australia, signalling the next major step forward for one of the nation's most enduring and capable SUVs.
With over 25 years of legacy on Australian roads and off the beaten track, the Forester has long been the vehicle of choice for those who seek more — more adventure, more versatility and more confidence behind the wheel. Now, the sixth-generation Forester redefines what’s possible, bringing bold design, smarter hybrid performance and next-level driver comfort to the iconic nameplate.
This launch also marks a milestone for Australia; the all-new Forester becomes the first vehicle in its class to pair permanent mechanical Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive with strong hybrid efficiency. At the heart of this breakthrough is the new Strong Hybrid e-Boxer system, which combines a 2.5-litre Boxer engine with a 90kW electric motor and 1.1kWh lithium-ion battery, producing a punchy 145kW of total system output. That’s a 31.8% uplift in power over the outgoing mild hybrid, delivered with whisper-quiet operation, instant torque and a driving range of over 1,000km1.
Drivers who favour petrol-only performance will find confidence in Subaru's refined 2.5-litre Boxer engine, paired with an upgraded Lineartronic® CVT that offers improved responsiveness and smoother take-off across daily commutes and longer escapes.
Capability remains a cornerstone of the Forester’s DNA. Every variant feature Subaru’s always-on Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, 220mm of ground clearance2, and X-Mode with Hill Descent Control. New dual-pinion steering — first introduced on WRX — brings sharper response and more intuitive control, reinforcing Forester’s adventurous spirit with a more refined, engaging drive.
Inside, the Forester has been reimagined for modern Australian lifestyles. A wide, horizontal dash layout supports visibility and a sense of space, while standout tech includes an 11.6-inch high-definition touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™3, front and rear USB-A and USB-C ports, wireless Qi charging4 and a premium Harman Kardon® audio system5 (available on select grades). Select hybrid variants also introduce a new 12.3-inch fully digital instrument cluster providing intuitive and customisable display options for trip, media and energy flow information.
Supportive new seating, refined ergonomics and increased sound insulation ensure every journey feels calm and composed, whether commuting through the city or venturing on rugged weekend tracks.
And when it comes to safety, the all-new Forester, with a five-star ANCAP safety rating6, takes another confident step forward. Every model is equipped with Subaru's latest-generation EyeSight® Driver Assist System, now enhanced with a new wide-angle monocular camera and the brand-new Emergency Driving Stop System7 (EDSS). A Driver Monitoring System8, Vision Assist suite with Panoramic 360 Degree View Monitor, and nine airbags all contribute to one of the most comprehensive safety packages in the segment and continue towards Subaru's long-term goal of achieving zero fatal accidents in a Subaru vehicle by 20309.
"The Subaru Forester has always been a cornerstone of our range. It's one of our most trusted and capable nameplates, and this next generation is our most advanced yet," said Scott Lawrence, General Manager, Subaru Australia.
"And with the arrival of our all-new Strong Hybrid system, we're delivering what Australians want - greater efficiency, excellent driving dynamics, outstanding safety and the confidence to go anywhere."
With vehicles now arriving at Subaru Retailers across Australia, the all-new Forester is ready to be experienced. Customers can book a test drive, configure their ideal variant, or learn more by visiting Subaru.com.au or by contacting their local Subaru Retailer.
