2025 Subaru Forester: MPG, NHTSA & IIHS Safety Ratings
— NHTSA, IIHS, EPA, AAA, RepairPal
The 2025 Subaru Forester scores well across safety and fuel cost, with NHTSA's 5-star rating and IIHS Top Safety Pick+ designation compared to 94 other value SUVs. NHTSA has 2 recall campaigns on file for this vehicle.
- Starting MSRP
- $29,995 - $43,295
- EPA Combined MPG
- 29-35 MPG
- NHTSA Safety Rating
- 5-Star (Highest)
- IIHS Award
- Top Safety Pick+
- Est. Annual Fuel Cost
- $1,800 - $2,150 per year
- EPA GHG Score
- 7 / 10
- Recalls on File
- 2 recalls on file
- EPA: vs Avg Vehicle
- Save $2,000 over 5 yrs
- Owner Complaints
- 63 on file
- Est. Monthly Cost (with fuel)
- $1,007 per month
- Est. Cost per Mile (with fuel)
- $0.69
- Brand Origin
- Japan
Priced from $29,995 to $43,295, the 2025 Subaru Forester is one of 94 value SUVs. Safety ratings, recall history, and ownership costs are all covered below.
- Base price $2,900 more than 2024 model
- IIHS Top Safety Pick+
- Fuel cost $154 per year below value SUVs average
2025 Subaru Forester at a Glance
Compared with similar SUVs in our dataset, the clearest positive signals for the 2025 Subaru Forester are high published crash-test results and lower estimated fuel cost, with EPA estimates you will save on fuel compared to the average new vehicle, but there is a high volume of owner-reported problems on file.
- safety
- fuel cost
- fuel savings
Strengths in the data
- Safety: 5-star NHTSA + IIHS TSP+. Safest SUVs 2025 →
- Fuel: Below-average fuel cost among hybrid SUVs. Best-case annual fuel cost is $1,800. Cheapest SUVs to fuel 2025 →
- EPA estimates this vehicle saves you about $2,000 over five years in fuel compared to the average new vehicle.
Cautions in the data
- NHTSA has 63 owner complaints on file, compared to an average of 32 for 2025 SUVs. Top reported areas include Visibility, Fuel System, ADAS / Safety Tech.
- Reliability is not a standout here: RepairPal 3.5/5.
- There are 2 recalls on file already, even if that still lands near the current class average. Zero-recall cars 2025 →
Similar vehicles to compare
How Safe Is the 2025 Subaru Forester?
With both a 5-star NHTSA rating and an IIHS TSP+ designation, the 2025 Subaru Forester has been tested by both NHTSA and IIHS crash test programs. Among SUVs, 82% earned the top NHTSA score. Source: NHTSA.
Overall Safety
82% of SUVs share this top rating
| Category | Rating |
|---|---|
| Frontal Crash | |
| Side Crash | |
| Rollover |
Rollover Risk: 17.4%
| Feature | Availability |
|---|---|
| Forward Collision Warning | Standard |
| Lane Departure Warning | Standard |
| Crash Imminent Braking | Standard |
| Dynamic Brake Support | Standard |
NHTSA crash tests use full-width frontal and side impacts. IIHS tests include offset frontal impacts and intersection-type side crashes, which are common in real-world driving. Both results are shown below.
How Did the 2025 Subaru Forester Perform in IIHS Crash Tests?
The 2025 Subaru Forester earned an IIHS TSP+. To qualify, a vehicle must score well across all crash test categories and demonstrate effective crash prevention technology. Source: IIHS.
| Test | Rating |
|---|---|
| Small Overlap Front | G Good |
| Moderate Overlap Front | G Good |
| Side | G Good |
| Headlights | G Good |
| Front Crash Prevention (Vehicle) | G Good |
| Front Crash Prevention (Pedestrian) | G Good |
| Seat Belt Reminders | G Good |
| Child Seat Anchors (LATCH) | G+ Good+ |
IIHS vehicle class: Small SUVs
Once you are comfortable with the crash test picture, the next thing to check is whether any safety-related defects have been found. All recall repairs are free at authorized Subaru dealers.
Does the 2025 Subaru Forester Have Any Recalls?
NHTSA has 2 recall campaigns on file for the 2025 Subaru Forester, affecting CHILD SEAT, WHEELS. This is typical for SUVs, which average 2 recall campaigns. Recall repairs are provided free at authorized dealers. Source: NHTSA.
2 recall campaigns on file with NHTSA.
Components: CHILD SEAT, WHEELS
Most recent: June 2025
What Do 2025 Subaru Forester Owners Report to NHTSA?
NHTSA has 63 owner complaints on file for the 2025 Subaru Forester. This is above the average of 32 complaints for 2025 SUVs. Owner complaints are self-reported and unverified, but patterns across many reports can indicate real issues.
17 in the last 90 days · 47 in the last 12 months · most recent filed 2026-04-13
Safety-relevant complaints: At least one complaint includes crash reported, fire reported, injury reported. Review individual reports on NHTSA.gov for details.
Most-reported problem areas
- Visibility27
- Fuel System12
- ADAS / Safety Tech8
- Powertrain4
- Brakes4
Source: NHTSA Vehicle Complaints Database. Data last refreshed 2026-04-16.
Families drive more miles and make more trips. That makes fuel economy one of the biggest factors in the real cost of owning the 2025 Subaru Forester.
What Is the 2025 Subaru Forester Fuel Economy?
At up to 35 combined MPG, the 2025 Subaru Forester's most efficient trim costs an estimated $1,800 per year in fuel, $154 less than the $1,954 average for value SUVs. Real-world results will vary. Source: EPA.
Ranges from 29 to 35 combined MPG/MPGe depending on trim and drivetrain.
| Trim | Combined | City | Highway | Annual Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Base | 29 MPG | 26 | 33 | $2,150 per year |
| Premium | 29 MPG | 26 | 33 | $2,150 per year |
| Sport | 29 MPG | 26 | 33 | $2,150 per year |
| Wilderness | 29 MPG | 26 | 33 | $2,150 per year |
| Premium Hybrid | 35 MPG | 35 | 34 | $1,800 per year |
| Limited | 29 MPG | 26 | 33 | $2,150 per year |
| Sport Hybrid | 35 MPG | 35 | 34 | $1,800 per year |
| Limited Hybrid | 35 MPG | 35 | 34 | $1,800 per year |
| Touring | 29 MPG | 26 | 33 | $2,150 per year |
| Touring Hybrid | 35 MPG | 35 | 34 | $1,800 per year |
Estimated 5-year fuel costs range from $9,000 to $10,750 depending on trim.
EPA smog rating ranges from 5 to 7 out of 10 across trims.
A family vehicle racks up miles fast. That means the hidden costs, insurance, maintenance, depreciation, matter as much as what you pay at the pump. AAA estimates them below.
What Does the 2025 Subaru Forester Cost to Own?
AAA publishes annual ownership cost estimates for the Compact SUV vehicle class, including insurance, maintenance, depreciation, and financing. These are class averages, not specific to the 2025 Subaru Forester. Source: AAA.
| Maintenance | $1,746 per year |
|---|---|
| Insurance | $1,726 per year |
| Depreciation | $3,554 per year |
| Registration & Taxes | $641 per year |
| Financing | $898 per year |
| Total (excluding fuel) | $10,279 per year |
| Cost per mile | $0.69 per mile |
Families often prioritize safety features and cargo space over horsepower. The trim table below shows how those factors vary across the 2025 Subaru Forester lineup.
How Do the 2025 Subaru Forester Trims Compare?
With 10 trims priced from $29,995 to $43,295, the 2025 Subaru Forester offers a range of equipment levels. Trims are available with Gasoline and Hybrid powertrains, which affects fuel economy and pricing. MSRP figures below do not include destination, taxes, or dealer fees.
| Trim | Base MSRP | Combined MPG | Est. Annual Fuel Cost | Horsepower | Curb Weight | Est. 5-Year Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Base | $29,995 | 29 MPG | $2,150 per year | 180 hp | 3,510 lbs | |
| Premium | $33,385 | 29 MPG | $2,150 per year | 180 hp | 3,569 lbs | |
| Sport | $36,105 | 29 MPG | $2,150 per year | 180 hp | 3,611 lbs | |
| Wilderness | $36,285 | 29 MPG | $2,150 per year | 182 hp | 3,620 lbs | |
| Premium Hybrid | $36,595 | 35 MPG | $1,800 per year | 194 hp | 3,873 lbs | |
| Limited | $37,695 | 29 MPG | $2,150 per year | 180 hp | 3,613 lbs | |
| Sport Hybrid | $39,595 | 35 MPG | $1,800 per year | 194 hp | 3,913 lbs | |
| Limited Hybrid | $41,010 | 35 MPG | $1,800 per year | 194 hp | 3,911 lbs | |
| Touring | $41,595 | 29 MPG | $2,150 per year | 180 hp | 3,664 lbs | |
| Touring Hybrid | $43,295 | 35 MPG | $1,800 per year | 194 hp | 3,946 lbs |
The Subaru Forester lineup has contracted from 11 trims in 2024 to 10 trims in 2025. Hybrid trims now represent 40% of the lineup, a new addition since 2024. The entry price has increased $2,900 since 2024.
New trims since 2024
added 2025
- Base
- Premium
- Sport
- Wilderness
- Limited
- Touring
Trims no longer available
last available 2024
- Base AWD GAS
- Premium Prod. CVT
- Premium CVT
- Sport Prod. CVT
- Sport CVT
- Limited Prod. CVT
- Limited CVT
- Wilderness Prod. CVT
- Wilderness CVT
- Touring Prod. CVT
- Touring CVT
View full trim timeline (2024–2026)
| Trim | 2024 | 2025 | 2026 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Base AWD GAS | $27,095 29 MPG | — | — |
| Premium Prod. CVT | $30,295 29 MPG | — | — |
| Premium CVT | $30,295 29 MPG | — | — |
| Sport Prod. CVT | $31,865 29 MPG | — | — |
| Sport CVT | $31,865 29 MPG | — | — |
| Limited Prod. CVT | $33,975 29 MPG | — | — |
| Limited CVT | $33,975 29 MPG | — | — |
| Wilderness Prod. CVT | $34,920 29 MPG | — | — |
| Wilderness CVT | $34,920 29 MPG | — | — |
| Touring Prod. CVT | $37,395 29 MPG | — | — |
| Touring CVT | $37,395 29 MPG | — | — |
| Base | — | $29,995 29 MPG | $29,995 29 MPG |
| Premium | — | $33,385 29 MPG | $33,385 29 MPG |
| Sport | — | $36,105 29 MPG | $36,105 29 MPG |
| Wilderness | — | $36,285 29 MPG | $38,385 29 MPG |
| Premium Hybrid | — | $36,595 35 MPG | — |
| Limited | — | $37,695 29 MPG | $37,695 29 MPG |
| Sport Hybrid | — | $39,595 35 MPG | — |
| Limited Hybrid | — | $41,010 35 MPG | — |
| Touring | — | $41,595 29 MPG | $41,595 29 MPG |
| Touring Hybrid | — | $43,295 35 MPG | — |
Compare Trim Costs
Select two trims and adjust your driving and financing to see how monthly costs compare. Only costs we can compute from EPA data and your inputs are shown. No estimates, no guesses.
Your driving & financing
Buying the right trim is the short-term decision. The reliability section below addresses the long-term one: how often will this vehicle need repairs, and how much will they cost?
How Reliable Is the 2025 Subaru Forester?
RepairPal rates the 2025 Subaru Forester at 3.5 out of 5.0 for reliability, which is about average for value SUVs. RepairPal ratings reflect repair frequency and cost data from a network of certified repair shops. Source: RepairPal.
How confident is Subaru in the 2025 Forester? The warranty terms below show exactly what they are willing to cover and for how long.
What Warranty Does the 2025 Subaru Forester Come With?
Warranty coverage defines Subaru's financial commitment if something fails. The terms below apply to all 2025 Forester trims. Longer powertrain coverage reflects the manufacturer's confidence in drivetrain durability.
| Basic Warranty | 3yr/36k |
|---|---|
| Powertrain Warranty | 5yr/60k |
| Corrosion Warranty | 5yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 3yr/36k |
What Are the 2025 Subaru Forester Specs?
Technical specifications for the 2025 Subaru Forester from manufacturer data. Engine size, horsepower, curb weight, and dimensions are shown for the primary configuration.
EPA vehicle class: Compact crossover SUV
| Engine | 2.5L flat 4 |
|---|---|
| Horsepower | 180 - 194 hp |
| Power-to-Weight | 102.6 hp per ton |
| Price per HP | $167 - $231 |
| Torque | 176 - 178 lb-ft |
| Transmission | continuously variable-speed automatic |
| Drive Type | All-Wheel Drive |
| Fuel Type | regular unleaded |
| Fuel Tank | 16.6 gal |
| Est. Range per Tank | 481 - 581 miles per tank (EPA combined) |
| Length | 182.7 - 183.3 in |
|---|---|
| Width | 72.0 - 72.2 in |
| Height | 68.1 - 68.9 in |
| Wheelbase | 104.9 - 105.1 in |
| Curb Weight | 3,510 - 3,946 lbs |
What Changed for the 2025 Subaru Forester?
- Number of available trims changed
- Pricing changed across one or more trims
- EPA fuel economy ratings changed
- Recall status changed
All data shown for the 2025 Subaru Forester comes from EPA, NHTSA, IIHS, AAA, manufacturers, and selected third-party references. The safety and reliability data above is especially relevant for a vehicle your family depends on. Data is refreshed periodically.
Source links
Verify this data
2025 Subaru Forester FAQ
What vehicles compete with the 2025 Subaru Forester?
Vehicles similar to the 2025 Subaru Forester in price and segment include 2025 Honda CR-V, 2025 Toyota RAV4, and 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan. The Honda CR-V is the closest in price (starting at $30,100, 5-star NHTSA, 28-40 MPG). Each has its own fact sheet with EPA, NHTSA, IIHS, and cost data for comparison. Browse all 2025 SUVs.
What changed on the 2025 Subaru Forester from last year?
Compared to the previous model year, 10 new trims were added, 11 trims were dropped, and the entry price increased by $2,900 for the Subaru Forester lineup. See the trim evolution timeline above for full year-by-year pricing and availability details.
How much does a 2025 Subaru Forester cost per month to own?
Excluding your car payment, estimated monthly costs for the 2025 Subaru Forester include about $857 for insurance, maintenance, depreciation, and fees, plus roughly $150 for fuel. That puts non-payment running costs around $1,007 per month. These are estimates based on AAA class averages and EPA fuel data. Actual costs depend on your driving, location, and coverage.
Is the 2025 Subaru Forester available as a hybrid?
Yes, the 2025 Subaru Forester is available with a hybrid powertrain option alongside conventional powertrains. Hybrid trims typically offer better fuel economy at a higher starting price compared to conventional gas trims. See our Hybrid SUVs 2025 list.
Where is Subaru based?
Subaru is headquartered in Japan. Brand origin reflects where the company is based, not where individual vehicles are assembled. Many Subaru vehicles sold in the U.S. are built at domestic or international plants. See our Japan-brand cars 2025 list.
What other Subaru models are available for 2025?
Subaru offers multiple models for 2025. Our Subaru models page lists every available Subaru vehicle with safety ratings, fuel costs, and ownership data.
What is the 2025 Subaru Forester safety rating?
The 2025 Subaru Forester earned a 5-star overall safety rating from NHTSA and has 2 recall campaigns on file. See the safety and recall sections above for the full breakdown, including IIHS results and specific recall details.
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Data on this page is compiled from government agencies and independent research organizations. It is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, purchasing, or safety advice. Verify all data with the original source before making decisions.