I feel like the only person that hates giant infotainment screens like this. When that screen inevitably freezes or stops working, now I lose access to everything.
Nah not the only but I do feel the minority. I don’t think people are thinking about software and updates. They’re associating it with Ipads I don’t like it either. It’s going to age cars quicker which maybe the point. Everything is becoming fast-fast fads, fast fashion, fast music….nothing is made to last.
Just check how to reset/restart/reboot it a head of time and put a slip of paper of the steps in your glove box. Also has been a thing for a long time and there really hasn't been a huge outcry about it being a problem.
More like insufficient power. This car needs more power and Subaru has not been responsive to consumer desires... maybe the hybrid model will bring about that power. Otherwise, I think it is the best compact SUV on the market if Subaru would offer more powertrains.
I do.. I heard two reasons.. 1) less then 5% of Forester sales were the XT 2) name of the game these days has been fuel economy.. but a 3rd) if they can get a "Prime" Forestor (PHEV) with added oomph of an electric drive train culd be a new xt
@@ctclardy The power is fine. We bought a 2023 Forester Wilderness last year and don't miss the turbo engine. It has a Sport Sharp (S#) drive mode if you want to sharpen the response a bit (changes the throttle mapping and when the torque converter locks up), it makes a pretty noticeable improvement. That said, it isn't a sports car and isn't pretending to be one. It's a competent daily driver that does it's intended job very well.
@@ctclardyit is sufficient power. With all the Foresters they sell, the power must be adequate enough. Customers are not asking for more power. Got to remember the audience for this vehicle. People like you who thinks this needs more power is not the target audience. Even if it did offer WRX-like power, would you buy it? Doubt it.
I dropped off my '17 Forester for maintenance at the dealer and they gave me a Legacy GT courtesy car. I drove it home and was like wow this car drives great the engine is very responsive. I took a look under the hood and it was the turbo. I wish they would bring back the turbo to the Forester.
More reliable, cheaper to repair, cheaper to afford compared to other cars. At least in my current research and finance deals. So it is a pretty good car for the money.
As someone who owned a 1998 Forester S and a 2021 Forester Sport, I really hate the new look. Ford front end, Mitsubishi-esque rear end. Weird details like that belt on the oddly shaped D pillar and the ugly geometric shapes on the bumpers and under the doors. And the ugly humps over the wheel arches... Yuck. I really hope the refresh helps and comes sooner than later.
Unfortunately, I'm seeing shades of Pontiac Aztek and a lot of Ford Explorer in the front grill treatment. Otherwise, they've gone generic and bland, losing some of the boxy charm that was a Forester mainstay. And the CVT groans on. Give us a PHEV with ECVT, stat!
Don't mind that at all. I have a 2024 and wish I would have waited for the 2025. The only thing I like more about the 2024 is the analog center controls.
It appears bigger now (could be the color) and I absolutely HATE that color. So many manufacturers are going towards that ugly grey instead of coming out with some new vibrant colors.
Suburus ruined their cars by making everything electronic inside, now you have to get Updates just to keep your RADIO working properly in a new car, and guess what!?! Unlike your phone, these Updates are NOT free after the warranty ends!! And the Sales people lie about it! Plus the cars have interior face scanning cameras that they lie about, and if that's not enough, they also track Everywhere you go, even if you don't have GPS and lie about this too!!! It's all a big secret. Why aren't more people talking about this unconstitutional invasion of Privacy???!!!???
I purchased my first Subaru ('21 Forester Sport) in October of '21. I really wanted a Rav4 but due to the car shortage I wasn't able to get a new one. With almost three years of ownership I have been pleased with the Forester. It's true that additional power would be nice but it does have "adequate" power. It is VERY practical. I live in N. IL and we receive a fair amount of snow in the winter. Subaru's AWD system is the best AWD system I've ever used. I have almost 60,000 miles on my Forester and other than routine maintenance I have not had any other issues. I have two dogs and do enjoy hiking and camping so the Forester is great for all my outdoor activities. Child car seats are easy to install with the large doors and the cloth seats clean up very easily with any spills or mud from the dogs. Safety is truly job 1 with Subaru to the point I turn some of the safety features off. Will I buy another Forester? IDK, I'll have to evaluate that when the time comes but I certainly would never discourage anyone from purchasing one.
The problem is not that the 2025 Forester looks ugly, the problem is it looks like a frankenstein of cars. Front end looks like a Ford Explorer, back looks like a Honda Pilot, and that little Subaru logo on the rear window screams of wannabe luxury car, which the Forester is anything but.
I hate that giant screen and the eyesight system. I work at an auto glass replacement shop and eyesight is the bane of our company, we always have issues with it at least 50% of the time when it comes to calibrating eyesight with the new windshield. It can take up to five or six hours from the time we start working on Subarus to calibrating it or even NOT calibrating it. In that case we send the customer to the dealership to figure out what’s wrong. Usually there is a DTC in the ABS or another system that is preventing eyesight from working properly. We had a new Subaru Legacy in for a windshield and that was the problem. It’s why I bought my wife a 2019 Crosstrek without eyesight. The hybrid option would make me consider a Subaru for myself and ignore those two things I hate.
Indeed, Subaru had a CVT back 1970's. And Boxer Engine and Symmetric GearBox that is supposed every car should have. But no matter what CVT is not benefit for Subaru owner but is only profitable for Toyota and Subaru. I hope that Subaru has at least Start gear like Lexus or Rav4 CVT. Otherwise, I can not get back Subaru though my family is "the Subaru" since 1990's.
Subaru very good quality , the design is invisible, it is not in future, much much better than pervious design. The design is seven to eight years behind. You buy Subaru for quality and not the look. I have had four of them. Turbo engine with CVT dose not go well, boring!!! Subaru should consider regular transmission on some its cars, CVT is not exciting.
Thanks for the great reviews.. We were looking for a forester hybrid.. but once it was announced for 2026 we went rav4.. love that you cover Canadian models and the differences..
Subaru is going to hurt their sales by not announcing or providing the Hybrid model. How many will now wait to make the comparison? On another note, if you are doing the coffee rounds, A&W Canada just announced that they are now providing Britain's Pret a Manger brand coffee. That one is a real hit all over Europe.
Looks like a GMC Arcadia that's had to much plastic surgery. Maybe it's just your mics but I'm hearing a lot of road and wind knows plus you almost sound like you are having to speaking very loudly to be heard over the noise. Almost every competitor is a better regardless of how long they have been out.
My Father has an Forester XT Turbo… he loves it. My Mother drives a Forester Limited… she LOVES hers. My younger Brother drives a Legacy. My other Brother’s wife drives a loaded Impreza. Both swear by them. So obviously I’m somewhat biased. These Subarus truly are great vehicles. But when it comes resale, reliability, dealership network and … the regular commuter… the ‘average’ inner-city person or Family… I’d always recommend the more proven Toyota RAV4. You just can’t go wrong. But for me? I’d probably get a Volkswagen Tiguan… just because I’ve got a fondness for a more German driving experience… despite being less reliable, less practical and would probably hold it’s value less than any Subaru Forester… or Toyota (obviously). Thanks for the video.
I easily would have had a forester by now if there was a turbo option. The hybrid gives me some hope.. maybe when I’m ready to trade in for a new car in 4 years.
I think it’s funny how every time she floors the gas or takes a turn, he reminds me of my dad taking my sister out for driving lessons. Like he’s of two minds to shout “slow down” and also reach for his imaginary brake pedal with his foot. Just mannerisms I’ve noticed when he’s in the passenger seat, could be nothing but reminded me of those times lol.
I bought the Outback touring XT a couple of months ago, specifically because I wanted the ventilated seats. It was the only model that had it. I would consider a Forester, if it had a turbo model going forward. My wife however is going to be trading in her Nissan rogue for a Forester next year.
We bought a used 2018 Subaru Forester with the non-Turbo engine and eyesight primarily for my mom to use to get to and from work. Its a great runabout suv for in-town errands, but taking it on a roadtrip to Florida after our minivan was out of commission revealed a few inherent flaws that im glad to see the newer models have mostly fixed. The eyesight was really nice over a long roadtrip and actually has me turned off of regular cruise control on my 15 year old CR-V haha. I also really like its tight turning circle and to me despite its 2.5L 4-cyl and CVT, off the line it feels pretty spritley and faster than its quoted 9 second 0-100km/h time. What I dreaded in that Forester was the backseats and it's the one reason I wouldn't recommend the car to anybody travelling regularly with more than two people. It seems Subaru cheaped out on insulating the doors because driving on the highways in December my feet were freezing while sitting in the back. And in the 2018 model year at least it surprisingly didn't have vents for the second row so there was no way to heat up the passenger space in the back. Additionally after awhile of driving the windows would also start to fog up, even with the climate controls up front active and using defrost mode. It seemed like Subaru didn't spend a lot of time testing the Forester for winter usage. Additionally the seats also don't recline back as they're anchored in place to the sides of the car. I guess this is common in a lot of suvs these days (fwiw my 15 year old CR-V has independently reclining seats in the back) but it really made it difficult to nap in the back while on a roadtrip. Some other nitpicky issues I found was a slow to respond power liftgate, memory seats that only remembered the seat adjustment and not the mirror placement. And the front seats I found to be a bit narrow and short in terms of thigh support. TL;DR 2018 Subaru Forester was a fine suv for a single rider or couples but fell short in terms of comfort on longer journeys although it seems most of those issues have been resolved with the new models.
Forster has a higher roof line than outback so you don't have to bend as much to get in the car. You can literally walk into the car. You'll really appreciate it if you have a bad back or getting older. I have owned a Forster XT turbo for 10 yrs now. The passing power is excellent. The current Forester models are anemic in comparison. There have added bells and whistles designed to distract the buyers. It is just marketing.
@@conceptcs so ford infotaintment is also outdated? its not the vertical orientation rather the design and ui of subaru's infotainment. I really do like Subaru and I do wish they improve the design and ui of their infotainment to make it look more modern at least, it doesn't need to be futuristic looking. I really hope someone talks to a Subaru exec and make the infotainment complaint known to them at the very least. They got good cars, just need to improve the infotainment.
Respecfully disagree. Everyone seems to be using those terrible "tack on" horizontal screens. Terrible layout, IMO. The Subaru ones are much more satisfying to use, and they've improved.
Subaru must like the spartan look. It doesn’t look like a 37k car on the inside. It kinda resembles cars in the 25-30k class. Compared to a CX-5, the Subaru looks cheap.
They're press vehicles, in most cases. The manufacturers supply them. Source: Me. I used to work for Canadian print media and we would get a new vehicle to review, almost every week. My overwhelming favourite, back in the day, was the NSX.
I wish Subaru uses the same exact Toyota hybrid power train in their hybrids as well so it will be more reliable and then fitting it into their symmetrical AWD system.
@@andreaspencer9813Ohh what is the use of just that battery..thought they are borrowing that entire ECVT set up of Hybrid which has been so reliable for decades now.
@@Gopinathk17 Details of the system have not been announced yet. Rumours are Subaru is using Toyota's hybrid system but that hasn't been confirmed by Subaru. What I do know is Subaru is using its own boxer engine in the Forester hybrid and a Toyota battery. How it all comes together, we will all find out at a later time.
my 2010 Forester died on the FDR bridge at 210,000 miles. The timing belt gave out( I blame my mechanic he had changed it at mile 160) I love my 2023. I love this 2025. Maybe in 2037, my 2023 will give out, and I'll be in the market for a new one. Great video guys!
The exterior styling is a "pass" from me. I find it to be very dull/pedestrian looking. Yes, I know that taste is subjective but it's way too soft looking. I wish it would have been butched up a little. Interior is the same as all other Subies. I love you Guys! Great reviewers. Canadian treasures...Cheers
Ford Explorer at the front. 2014 Mitsubishi Outlander at the back. It's not a bad look though. I miss 1980s and 1990s Subarus. They were unique, high-quality cars.
Bought a new 2023 Forester and love the suv. Recently, I rented a competitors model to go to the Indy 500. After the trip I was delighted that I bought the Forester over the competition.
It's not ugly. The rear glass being more perpendicular makes this car so much more practical. With 17" wheels for more sidewall, I'm good with this model. It's one of the few SUVs that would get me out of my Camry. I prefer sedans but I sometimes could use an suv.
I got a 2023 Forester after 26 years of Honda Accord. I was ready for a change. I’ve been happy with mine and the utility has been so great. The back seat is also very roomy for passengers.
Did I see correctly that it now offers rain sensing wipers? Other than the Ascent is this the only Subaru that offers this? Having had it on the last few cars it's a deal killer if it doesn't offer this feature. Love that it now offers ventilated seats? Love the show. Thanks
@@andreaspencer9813 TCV thermal control valve. Not CVT. Subaru announced a campaign to extend this part to 15 years/150,000 miles. MrSubaru1387 made a video about it. Per Mr. Subaru, 2025 Forester ditched the TCV.
Was interesting in a Suburu till I heard about the plastic thermo control value. What were they thinking?? Costs thousands to fix, they have extended the warranty on it for the US, I have no idea if they did the same in Canada. Local dealer doesn't seem to know either. Staying away. It will break.
I agree with you and also would add the large screen to that. I wish they'd keep the screen for the entertainment and leave the HVAC controls, seat and wheel heaters to knobs and buttons. I keep vehicles long term and can't imagine how expensive that screen will be to replace when it finally goes. Manufacturers only have to provide parts for 10 yrs for a model, so you'll likely be looking to remans or rebuilds when the time comes. It is so much easier and safer to adjust HVAC with knobs or buttons, it can be done even without taking your eyes off the road, try that with a screen when you have to flip between screens to do a simple adjustment. I noticed Zack and Andrea didn't talk much about the screen and its operation.
did they resolve the right control arm issue? with the older forester, because of a/c condense water, cause the right control arm damaged after several years
Thanks for the review.... Happy 2018 forester xt owner here as turbo... Owned since day one and zero issues... Waiting out for new turbo 😊 come on Subaru
Why the old Forester Turbo did not sell well is because it required Premium fuel (main reason). The Outback and Ascent’s turbo uses regular fuel. We hope it’ll be on the Wilderness version will get that turbo (at least).
I feel like the only person that hates giant infotainment screens like this. When that screen inevitably freezes or stops working, now I lose access to everything.
Nah not the only but I do feel the minority. I don’t think people are thinking about software and updates. They’re associating it with Ipads I don’t like it either. It’s going to age cars quicker which maybe the point. Everything is becoming fast-fast fads, fast fashion, fast music….nothing is made to last.
And then the dealer will require $3k to replace it. Planned future revenue stream.
No you are not alone!
Just check how to reset/restart/reboot it.
Just check how to reset/restart/reboot it a head of time and put a slip of paper of the steps in your glove box. Also has been a thing for a long time and there really hasn't been a huge outcry about it being a problem.
"Sufficient...... sufficient power." 😂. Remember when there was a Subaru Forester XT with a 250HP/258TQ turbo?
More like insufficient power. This car needs more power and Subaru has not been responsive to consumer desires... maybe the hybrid model will bring about that power. Otherwise, I think it is the best compact SUV on the market if Subaru would offer more powertrains.
I do.. I heard two reasons.. 1) less then 5% of Forester sales were the XT 2) name of the game these days has been fuel economy.. but a 3rd) if they can get a "Prime" Forestor (PHEV) with added oomph of an electric drive train culd be a new xt
@@ctclardy The power is fine. We bought a 2023 Forester Wilderness last year and don't miss the turbo engine. It has a Sport Sharp (S#) drive mode if you want to sharpen the response a bit (changes the throttle mapping and when the torque converter locks up), it makes a pretty noticeable improvement. That said, it isn't a sports car and isn't pretending to be one. It's a competent daily driver that does it's intended job very well.
@@ctclardyit is sufficient power. With all the Foresters they sell, the power must be adequate enough. Customers are not asking for more power. Got to remember the audience for this vehicle. People like you who thinks this needs more power is not the target audience. Even if it did offer WRX-like power, would you buy it? Doubt it.
I dropped off my '17 Forester for maintenance at the dealer and they gave me a Legacy GT courtesy car. I drove it home and was like wow this car drives great the engine is very responsive. I took a look under the hood and it was the turbo. I wish they would bring back the turbo to the Forester.
People who used to buy Volvos are now buying Subarus.
They’re just way more reliable than Volvos
This is an excellent point.
Or Saab owners. I guess we like quirky.
More reliable, cheaper to repair, cheaper to afford compared to other cars. At least in my current research and finance deals. So it is a pretty good car for the money.
It's quite a downgrade from a Volvo. People who were buying Volvos moved on to Lexus or Germans, not Subaru.
As someone who owned a 1998 Forester S and a 2021 Forester Sport, I really hate the new look. Ford front end, Mitsubishi-esque rear end. Weird details like that belt on the oddly shaped D pillar and the ugly geometric shapes on the bumpers and under the doors. And the ugly humps over the wheel arches...
Yuck.
I really hope the refresh helps and comes sooner than later.
just made my last payment on my 2019! tempting to get the 2025, but I'll wait. I will get another Forester though. love the video!
Needs more power and a standard transmission, then i will look at it
Why does it look 20 years old already?
Looks like an American Subaru. Japanese design slowly saying bye bye :(
soccer mum SUV
20 years old might be a good thing after listening to space Elmo 😂
Subaru is not known for 'trendy' designs like the Koreans do.
😅😅😅😅
Subaru has never had a good looking car, time they acknowledge it
Unfortunately, I'm seeing shades of Pontiac Aztek and a lot of Ford Explorer in the front grill treatment. Otherwise, they've gone generic and bland, losing some of the boxy charm that was a Forester mainstay. And the CVT groans on. Give us a PHEV with ECVT, stat!
It's giving Ford Explorer Vibes.
Don't mind that at all. I have a 2024 and wish I would have waited for the 2025. The only thing I like more about the 2024 is the analog center controls.
Im liking the restrained use of cladding on this one.
Wait until the wilderness trim
I hope wilderness is not going to be as bad as plastic galore of the crosstrek.
Agree. I have a '24 Outback and the cladding is way overdone on that.
Me too!
To me, one of the uglier SUV’s in its class. However, better looking than it has been.
The design is better but mediocre anyways. The car is reliable though.
It appears bigger now (could be the color) and I absolutely HATE that color. So many manufacturers are going towards that ugly grey instead of coming out with some new vibrant colors.
Front end reminds me of some Honda and Ford SUVs. Could use more HP?
Love the “more cowbell!” Reference… one of my favourite SNL skits of all time
Suburus ruined their cars by making everything electronic inside, now you have to get Updates just to keep your RADIO working properly in a new car, and guess what!?! Unlike your phone, these Updates are NOT free after the warranty ends!! And the Sales people lie about it! Plus the cars have interior face scanning cameras that they lie about, and if that's not enough, they also track Everywhere you go, even if you don't have GPS and lie about this too!!! It's all a big secret. Why aren't more people talking about this unconstitutional invasion of Privacy???!!!???
The front looks like a Explorer.
Not for me. Looks like a Ford escape. Ugly exterior.
I purchased my first Subaru ('21 Forester Sport) in October of '21. I really wanted a Rav4 but due to the car shortage I wasn't able to get a new one. With almost three years of ownership I have been pleased with the Forester. It's true that additional power would be nice but it does have "adequate" power. It is VERY practical. I live in N. IL and we receive a fair amount of snow in the winter. Subaru's AWD system is the best AWD system I've ever used. I have almost 60,000 miles on my Forester and other than routine maintenance I have not had any other issues. I have two dogs and do enjoy hiking and camping so the Forester is great for all my outdoor activities. Child car seats are easy to install with the large doors and the cloth seats clean up very easily with any spills or mud from the dogs. Safety is truly job 1 with Subaru to the point I turn some of the safety features off. Will I buy another Forester? IDK, I'll have to evaluate that when the time comes but I certainly would never discourage anyone from purchasing one.
Thanks for the video!
We had our minds made up on the 2025 Forester, then we test drove an Outback XT... and the rest is history!😮
Same happened to me
@@teresasquibb8002Why
Did you like it better?
I though it was a ford initially
Still looks like a two slice toaster on wheels without the crumb tray
Its ugly! Too blocky!
Still the same old anaemic 2.5Lt motor. I'll wait for the hybrid.
New one looks super generic and bland. The previous one at least had a slight quirkiness to it that made it interesting and appealing.
Love the interior..too bad you have to get the top trim. Can't stand the bug deflector front end, it's just ugly..looks like a ford
CVT😂😂😂
I agree with Zach that the turbo should be back as an option.
Subaru says no to the turbo but they tell us the hybrid should take care of the extra power some may be looking for.
@@andreaspencer9813 Thanks Andrea.
Y'all keep saying, we need a turbo, but didn't purchase it!
"She's got a good personality".
😅
The problem is not that the 2025 Forester looks ugly, the problem is it looks like a frankenstein of cars. Front end looks like a Ford Explorer, back looks like a Honda Pilot, and that little Subaru logo on the rear window screams of wannabe luxury car, which the Forester is anything but.
I hate that giant screen and the eyesight system. I work at an auto glass replacement shop and eyesight is the bane of our company, we always have issues with it at least 50% of the time when it comes to calibrating eyesight with the new windshield. It can take up to five or six hours from the time we start working on Subarus to calibrating it or even NOT calibrating it.
In that case we send the customer to the dealership to figure out what’s wrong. Usually there is a DTC in the ABS or another system that is preventing eyesight from working properly. We had a new Subaru Legacy in for a windshield and that was the problem.
It’s why I bought my wife a 2019 Crosstrek without eyesight. The hybrid option would make me consider a Subaru for myself and ignore those two things I hate.
Previous design was better. It is unique. Now, it looks like a Ford explorer
looks like a ford cop suv.
Indeed, Subaru had a CVT back 1970's. And Boxer Engine and Symmetric GearBox that is supposed every car should have.
But no matter what CVT is not benefit for Subaru owner but is only profitable for Toyota and Subaru. I hope that Subaru has at least Start gear like Lexus or Rav4 CVT. Otherwise, I can not get back Subaru though my family is "the Subaru" since 1990's.
😮 not pretty... They should hire a Mazda designer !!
Hmmmm.....and why the Wilderness trim is always late to the party only Subaru knows lol😊
and the hybrid.
Subaru very good quality , the design is invisible, it is not in future, much much better than pervious design. The design is seven to eight years behind. You buy Subaru for quality and not the look. I have had four of them. Turbo engine with CVT dose not go well, boring!!! Subaru should consider regular transmission on some its cars, CVT is not exciting.
It looks like a gray day for everyone.
Thanks for the great reviews.. We were looking for a forester hybrid.. but once it was announced for 2026 we went rav4.. love that you cover Canadian models and the differences..
Looks like ford explorer from front and rear looks like 2014 outlander
You guys are getting better and better with the videos. Well done!!
Subaru is going to hurt their sales by not announcing or providing the Hybrid model. How many will now wait to make the comparison? On another note, if you are doing the coffee rounds, A&W Canada just announced that they are now providing Britain's Pret a Manger brand coffee. That one is a real hit all over Europe.
Looks like CRv on the side, Ford on front and Mitsubishi at the back.
не правда ,они использовали эту оптику до митцубиси на импрезе ...
All new !!! Really ????
Looks like a GMC Arcadia that's had to much plastic surgery. Maybe it's just your mics but I'm hearing a lot of road and wind knows plus you almost sound like you are having to speaking very loudly to be heard over the noise. Almost every competitor is a better regardless of how long they have been out.
Interior and dash looks ugly. Why haven’t car manufacturers learned from the clean and lean Tesla interiors? Especially the Japanese ones!
And that raspy engine note with the rubbish CVT is it gone?
😂😂😂😂 красавчик
My Father has an Forester XT Turbo… he loves it. My Mother drives a Forester Limited… she LOVES hers. My younger Brother drives a Legacy. My other Brother’s wife drives a loaded Impreza. Both swear by them. So obviously I’m somewhat biased. These Subarus truly are great vehicles. But when it comes resale, reliability, dealership network and … the regular commuter… the ‘average’ inner-city person or Family… I’d always recommend the more proven Toyota RAV4. You just can’t go wrong. But for me? I’d probably get a Volkswagen Tiguan… just because I’ve got a fondness for a more German driving experience… despite being less reliable, less practical and would probably hold it’s value less than any Subaru Forester… or Toyota (obviously). Thanks for the video.
I know I'm not the only one to say this, but I have to chime in on it... It looks way too much like a Ford Explorer.
Lost ya on “smoother comfortable” Which ones are?
4:39 - when you say the wrong model of car and edit in the correct word?
Bring back the XT!
Every car execs answer about future products is unless we tell you about it, we know nothing.
The front grill is the only thing I can't get over... TERRIBLE!
Where does the AWD Kia Sportage hybrid fit in all of this?
Japanese with all these cvt’s are regressing and a dealer-breaker.
I easily would have had a forester by now if there was a turbo option. The hybrid gives me some hope.. maybe when I’m ready to trade in for a new car in 4 years.
More stuff to go wrong. The base 2.5 is fine. I have a 24 Crosstrek with the same engine.
I think it’s funny how every time she floors the gas or takes a turn, he reminds me of my dad taking my sister out for driving lessons. Like he’s of two minds to shout “slow down” and also reach for his imaginary brake pedal with his foot. Just mannerisms I’ve noticed when he’s in the passenger seat, could be nothing but reminded me of those times lol.
I really like the new car but until the hybrid launches the 2.5 engine is rough, noisy when accelerating and a deal breaker for us.
I bought the Outback touring XT a couple of months ago, specifically because I wanted the ventilated seats. It was the only model that had it. I would consider a Forester, if it had a turbo model going forward. My wife however is going to be trading in her Nissan rogue for a Forester next year.
We bought a used 2018 Subaru Forester with the non-Turbo engine and eyesight primarily for my mom to use to get to and from work. Its a great runabout suv for in-town errands, but taking it on a roadtrip to Florida after our minivan was out of commission revealed a few inherent flaws that im glad to see the newer models have mostly fixed.
The eyesight was really nice over a long roadtrip and actually has me turned off of regular cruise control on my 15 year old CR-V haha. I also really like its tight turning circle and to me despite its 2.5L 4-cyl and CVT, off the line it feels pretty spritley and faster than its quoted 9 second 0-100km/h time.
What I dreaded in that Forester was the backseats and it's the one reason I wouldn't recommend the car to anybody travelling regularly with more than two people. It seems Subaru cheaped out on insulating the doors because driving on the highways in December my feet were freezing while sitting in the back. And in the 2018 model year at least it surprisingly didn't have vents for the second row so there was no way to heat up the passenger space in the back. Additionally after awhile of driving the windows would also start to fog up, even with the climate controls up front active and using defrost mode. It seemed like Subaru didn't spend a lot of time testing the Forester for winter usage. Additionally the seats also don't recline back as they're anchored in place to the sides of the car. I guess this is common in a lot of suvs these days (fwiw my 15 year old CR-V has independently reclining seats in the back) but it really made it difficult to nap in the back while on a roadtrip.
Some other nitpicky issues I found was a slow to respond power liftgate, memory seats that only remembered the seat adjustment and not the mirror placement. And the front seats I found to be a bit narrow and short in terms of thigh support.
TL;DR 2018 Subaru Forester was a fine suv for a single rider or couples but fell short in terms of comfort on longer journeys although it seems most of those issues have been resolved with the new models.
Ford Explorer in the front, Nissan Kicks in the back, Rav4 from the side.
I went with the 24 Forester Wilderness over the 25 Forester Sport.
Forster has a higher roof line than outback so you don't have to bend as much to get in the car. You can literally walk into the car. You'll really appreciate it if you have a bad back or getting older. I have owned a Forster XT turbo for 10 yrs now. The passing power is excellent. The current Forester models are anemic in comparison. There have added bells and whistles designed to distract the buyers. It is just marketing.
Looks a bit like older Highlander
Does it heat the entire steering wheel, or does it still omit the top third? I absolutely HATE this in my Crosstrek
The whole steering wheel is heated.
We miss the turbo version.
it's definitely ugly but still a huge improvement over the last one, inside and out. Looks way more grown up.
God Subaru's infotainment just puts me off any car they have. It's such an antiquated looking system, I don't think I could get over having to use it
So true, a vertical screen was cool in 2010. Now the trend is widescreen.
@@conceptcs so ford infotaintment is also outdated? its not the vertical orientation rather the design and ui of subaru's infotainment. I really do like Subaru and I do wish they improve the design and ui of their infotainment to make it look more modern at least, it doesn't need to be futuristic looking. I really hope someone talks to a Subaru exec and make the infotainment complaint known to them at the very least. They got good cars, just need to improve the infotainment.
@@conceptcs I prefer vertical like the new Ranger.
Respecfully disagree. Everyone seems to be using those terrible "tack on" horizontal screens. Terrible layout, IMO. The Subaru ones are much more satisfying to use, and they've improved.
Subaru must like the spartan look. It doesn’t look like a 37k car on the inside. It kinda resembles cars in the 25-30k class. Compared to a CX-5, the Subaru looks cheap.
It really looks strangely, oddly a Forester
Do you rent the vehicles or do you go to dealers and test drive them?
They're press vehicles, in most cases. The manufacturers supply them. Source: Me. I used to work for Canadian print media and we would get a new vehicle to review, almost every week. My overwhelming favourite, back in the day, was the NSX.
I think the design looks good, but won't age well.
Get rid of the cvt for christ sake
When will the specs for the hybrid version come out? Crosstrek, Forester, Outback
With no turbo, surely this will burn regular 87 octane gas?
I wish Subaru uses the same exact Toyota hybrid power train in their hybrids as well so it will be more reliable and then fitting it into their symmetrical AWD system.
They want to use their own Boxer engine but will be using a Toyota battery.
@@andreaspencer9813Ohh what is the use of just that battery..thought they are borrowing that entire ECVT set up of Hybrid which has been so reliable for decades now.
@@Gopinathk17 Details of the system have not been announced yet. Rumours are Subaru is using Toyota's hybrid system but that hasn't been confirmed by Subaru. What I do know is Subaru is using its own boxer engine in the Forester hybrid and a Toyota battery. How it all comes together, we will all find out at a later time.
Oh you mean you don’t drive 15mph like i do …………… i even got a radar detector. ……………..
my 2010 Forester died on the FDR bridge at 210,000 miles. The timing belt gave out( I blame my mechanic he had changed it at mile 160) I love my 2023. I love this 2025. Maybe in 2037, my 2023 will give out, and I'll be in the market for a new one. Great video guys!
How often would you charge the CVT oil ?
The exterior styling is a "pass" from me. I find it to be very dull/pedestrian looking. Yes, I know that taste is subjective but it's way too soft looking. I wish it would have been butched up a little. Interior is the same as all other Subies.
I love you Guys! Great reviewers. Canadian treasures...Cheers
Another great Subaru product , bravo !
We have a 2024 Forester Wilderness…keeping it forever , love it !
No Hybrid? Subaru seems to be the only brand without hybrid models. An XT Forester would probably be a better choice but they discontinued that also.
Hold your taters, it’s coming. Mid 2025.
Ford Explorer at the front. 2014 Mitsubishi Outlander at the back. It's not a bad look though. I miss 1980s and 1990s Subarus. They were unique, high-quality cars.
8:35 nice phone wallpaper 😊
Bought a new 2023 Forester and love the suv. Recently, I rented a competitors model to go to the Indy 500. After the trip I was delighted that I bought the Forester over the competition.
and what was that competition?
Looks like a ford suv from the front
WIRED Car Play and Android Auto????
The 11.6" touchscreen comes with wireless, the smaller screen on the base model wired.
That cloth upholstery is made of plastic . Just like all fake leather seats .
They never use wool or even cotton .
Well "plastic fantastic "
It's not ugly. The rear glass being more perpendicular makes this car so much more practical. With 17" wheels for more sidewall, I'm good with this model. It's one of the few SUVs that would get me out of my Camry. I prefer sedans but I sometimes could use an suv.
Rear looks like a fortuner and MU-X
You should test drive the 2025 Toyota Camry.
I got a 2023 Forester after 26 years of Honda Accord. I was ready for a change. I’ve been happy with mine and the utility has been so great. The back seat is also very roomy for passengers.
Does it have black ice driver assist
Subaru exterior designers saw a 2014 Ford Explorer and said "Ctrl C, Ctrl V" 🤔🤨
Did I see correctly that it now offers rain sensing wipers? Other than the Ascent is this the only Subaru that offers this? Having had it on the last few cars it's a deal killer if it doesn't offer this feature. Love that it now offers ventilated seats? Love the show. Thanks
Holding out for the all new 2026
I’m guessing this one chugs oil like all the rest. 2019 drinks almost 2 quarts every 5 thousand miles, but Subaru says that’s okay.
I am wondering if I can operate that tablet with gloves on, because it's mostly cold in Canada.
After so many problems with 2019-24 TCV, no information as to wether the 25 still has same??????
We said in the video the transmission has been updated.
@@andreaspencer9813 TCV thermal control valve. Not CVT. Subaru announced a campaign to extend this part to 15 years/150,000 miles. MrSubaru1387 made a video about it. Per Mr. Subaru, 2025 Forester ditched the TCV.
Was interesting in a Suburu till I heard about the plastic thermo control value. What were they thinking?? Costs thousands to fix, they have extended the warranty on it for the US, I have no idea if they did the same in Canada. Local dealer doesn't seem to know either. Staying away. It will break.
I agree with you and also would add the large screen to that. I wish they'd keep the screen for the entertainment and leave the HVAC controls, seat and wheel heaters to knobs and buttons. I keep vehicles long term and can't imagine how expensive that screen will be to replace when it finally goes. Manufacturers only have to provide parts for 10 yrs for a model, so you'll likely be looking to remans or rebuilds when the time comes. It is so much easier and safer to adjust HVAC with knobs or buttons, it can be done even without taking your eyes off the road, try that with a screen when you have to flip between screens to do a simple adjustment. I noticed Zack and Andrea didn't talk much about the screen and its operation.
did they resolve the right control arm issue? with the older forester, because of a/c condense water, cause the right control arm damaged after several years
Thanks for the review.... Happy 2018 forester xt owner here as turbo... Owned since day one and zero issues... Waiting out for new turbo 😊 come on Subaru
Why the old Forester Turbo did not sell well is because it required Premium fuel (main reason). The Outback and Ascent’s turbo uses regular fuel. We hope it’ll be on the Wilderness version will get that turbo (at least).
There is no turbo coming to the Forester. Subaru says, the hybrid should meet the needs of buyers who want more power.