New Foz offers strong hybrid

A new hybrid enters the Australian market, but is it worth the transition?

Subaru’s new Forester remains true to the car that fans love.

But is the new Subaru Forester “Strong Hybrid” compelling enough to sway buyers from the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, Hyundai Tucson Hybrid, or Chinese newcomers?

After driving both the petrol and hybrid in Christchurch, on blacktop and off-road, the answer is complex. It depends.

The Subaru Forester hybrid kicks off at $46,490 plus on-road costs and stretches to $55,990 for the top-spec Touring, or about $5000 more than the equivalent petrol model.

Buyers paying the hybrid premium are promised improved fuel economy and smoother dynamics.

This “Strong Hybrid” - a name Subaru uses to separate it from less powerful hybrid models in cars such as the Crosstrek - pairs a 2.0-litre petrol engine with a 90kW electric motor, offering a combined 145kW.

The new 2025 Subaru Forester Hybrid off road in New Zealand. Picture: Supplied

Compared to the 2.5-litre petrol variant (136kW/247Nm), the hybrid has slightly more punch off the mark, better responsiveness, and a smooth overall drive.

The eCVT transmission is seamless, with no droning, no fake shifts, and instant torque from the electric motor that lends zip.

It feels like a step forward compared to older Subarus with petrol engines and stepless automatic transmissions.

The hybrid’s claimed range of over 1000km per tank is a real win, but don’t expect fuel-efficient numbers to match Toyota hybrids.

On paper, the Subaru hybrid promises 6.2L/100km fuel use, a 30 per cent improvement over petrol in urban traffic. But I averaged a disappointing 8.0L/100km across mixed driving conditions.

What sets Subaru’s hybrid apart is its off-road ability.

Unlike the RAV4, which has no physical connection between the petrol engine and rear wheels, powering the back tyres with a remotely-mounted e-motor only when needed, the Subaru claims full-time all-wheel-drive.

The new 2025 Subaru Forester Hybrid/Petrol off road in NZ.

This is great for off-roading and this Forester isn’t a soft off-roader.

I took the Strong Hybrid on gravel, through streams, slippery surfaces, and across rocks, and it didn’t let me down.

You also get X-Mode, hill descent control, and 220mm of ground clearance - more than most rivals.

Inside the Forester is spacious, solid, and familiar.

The seats have good back support, rear space is generous, and the boot is wide and flat, with a total boot capacity of up to 1719 litres when the second row is folded flat.

The 11.6-inch table-style infotainment system is great, but it feels divisive. While it looks sleek, the interface can feel overwhelming and, at times, a little slow. It’s also prone to sun glare.

Although Apple CarPlay integration is great, the maps display beautifully in the digital cluster.

My wireless charger didn’t work with my iPhone case on, a common complaint.

There are still physical buttons on the steering wheel - yes, I know, music to your ears.

Interior of the new Subaru Forester AWD Hybrid Sport. Photo: Supplied

Surprisingly, the hybrid doesn’t come with a spare wheel; instead, you’ll find a repair kit. That might be a bit of a turn-off for regional or rural buyers. However, for those who want to carry a full-size spare, there is an accessory solution available for the hybrid.

So, how does it stack up against rivals?

Well, the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid remains the king of fuel efficiency, often returning sub-6L/100km. The Haval H6 Hybrid delivers huge value for the price.

But the Forester still wins on off-road capability, something other rivals will struggle with.

The Subaru comes standard with a five-year/unlimited kilometre vehicle warranty and an eight-year/160,000km hybrid high-voltage battery warranty.

The new 2025 Subaru Forester AWD Hybrid and Petrol. Picture: Supplied

Verdict

3.5/5

So is the hybrid worth it? Honestly, the petrol variant holds its own. It’s still responsive, composed, and more affordable.

But the hybrid does feel a little zippier, quieter, and more refined overall.

If you’re already a Foz fan, then you’ll probably love this.

If you’re cross-shopping with rivals, then it’ll come down to priorities.

If you love off-roading, camping, or planning longer trips, then the hybrid is worth the upgrade.

However, it’s worth noting that the first-year release of this hybrid may come with some hiccups. My advice would be to wait a year to see if any issues arise.