Subaru Forester Hybrid: A New Era with Toyota Technology

In 2025, the Subaru Forester is set to integrate Toyota's advanced hybrid technology. This strategic move aims to enhance fuel efficiency, addressing previous criticisms of Subaru's native hybrid system, the 'e-Boxer', which showed limited fuel savings. The collaboration was solidified last year, marking a significant shift in Subaru's approach to hybrid vehicles.

The Forester, a popular mid-size SUV, will be the first Subaru model to benefit from Toyota's hybrid tech. This integration promises significant real-world fuel consumption reductions. While the exact specifications are yet to be disclosed, the hybrid Forester is expected to feature Subaru's signature 'boxer' petrol engines, combined with Toyota's batteries and electric motors.

Subaru's Chief Operating Officer in the US, Jeff Walters, has confirmed the use of Toyota-sourced batteries and electric components, although he refrained from revealing detailed specs. The hybrid version is anticipated to follow the launch of the regular petrol Forester, slated for release in the US between March and May 2024.

Comparisons with Toyota's RAV4 Hybrid suggest that while the hybrid Forester may offer substantial fuel savings, it might not match the RAV4 Hybrid's efficiency. The RAV4 Hybrid boasts a fuel economy of 4.8 liters per 100 kilometers, whereas the current Forester 'e-Boxer' hybrid records 6.7 liters per 100 kilometers.

The upcoming Forester will feature a 2.5-litre petrol engine, and its slightly larger and stiffer body compared to its predecessor hints at a potential increase in weight and possibly fuel consumption. It remains uncertain whether Subaru will have access to Toyota's latest fifth-generation hybrid technology.

Subaru Australia has not yet announced the Australian release dates for the new Forester in petrol or hybrid forms.