Order books are now open for the latest Subaru Forester

Subaru New Zealand says its sixth-generation Forester is now available for preorder. 

Following its recent public debut in Australia, Subaru New Zealand has now confirmed full New Zealand pricing and specifications ahead of first vehicle arrivals in July. 

The medium-sized all-paw SUV kicks off at $49,990 for Forester AWD while the range-topping Forester AWD Hybrid Touring lists at $60,990.

The new Forester line-up includes six variants. Three are petrol-only (Forester AWD, AWD Sport and AWD Touring). The other three are equipped with Subaru’s petrol-hybrid powertrain (Forester AWD Hybrid, AWD Hybrid Sport and AWD Hybrid Touring). 

The new-generation model range is totally re-engineered, with more features expected by Kiwi customers as standard across the range. Moreover, the hybrid offering expands. This shift results in a significant boost in specification to the entry Forester variant, the Forester AWD, compared with the outgoing 2.5i AWD. The petrol-only engine delivers output of 136kW (5800rpm) and 247Nm (3700rpm), with overall fuel use a stated combined fuel use figure of 7.9L/100km.

Stronger Hybrid

Meantime, the all-new Hybrid system marks a major leap forward for the Forester nameplate and a significant step in Subaru’s electrification journey. With markedly improved efficiency (6.2L/100km) Forester hybrids now have a driving range of around 1000km per 63L tank.

Subaru’s next-generation strong Hybrid e-Boxer system combines a 121kW/212Nm Atkinson/Miller cycle 2.5-litre Boxer engine with a 90kW electric motor and 1.1kWh battery. The upshot is a smoother, quieter and more responsive driving experience. Power overall is rated at 147kW, with system torque unspecified. That compares with 110kW for the former mild hybrid boxer engine, and much greater contribution from the motor side of things.

Evidently, one motor acts as a generator for the 1.1kWh battery and there’s a larger traction motor roughly four times as potent as the outgoing mild hybrid offering. The set-up is similar to what RAV4 has, though with Forester the motors reside within the CVT enclosure. 

The driving dynamics that Kiwis have come to expect from Subaru remain intact, with all powertrains and variants centred around Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system.  

There’s also 220mm of ground clearance, standard X-Mode, enhanced suspension tuning and new dual-pinion steering for improved precision and response. So the latest Forester remains ready to tackle New Zealand’s varied roads and terrain with confidence. 

The permanent AWD system shifts power to where it’s needed most. And in hybrid variants, Subaru says instant torque further enhances grip and low-speed control

Updated interior

Inside, the Forester has been revamped for added comfort, improved connectivity and enhanced cabin refinement. Key features across the range include: 

• 12.3-inch digital driver display (on select hybrid variants) 
• 360° Surround View Monitor for increased visibility and off-road confidence 
• Enhanced cabin insulation and vibration damping for reduced interior noise 
• Ergonomic seating for increased comfort 
• Qi wireless smartphone charging pad 
• 11.6-inch high-definition infotainment touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto

Safety above all

Safety remains a priority for Forester. Subaru’s latest-generation EyeSight Driver Assist technology is now standard across all models.

It incorporates a new wide-angle monocular camera for a broader field of vision. There’s also a new Emergency Driving Stop System. 

Subaru Vision Assist, Driver Monitoring and nine airbags further strengthen Forester’s occupant protection. 

The GM of Inchcape New Zealand, distributor of Subaru vehicles, Kym Mellow commented: “Forester has been a firm favourite with Kiwi families, weekend explorers, and everyday drivers. 

“We are sure they will welcome this stronger, smarter and more capable next generation model. 

“Now equipped with Subaru’s most advanced hybrid technology, the three Forester Hybrid variants are also more efficient” he added.

“From ski field gravel roads to alpine passes and even doing the school run in the rain, it handles all conditions with ease. 

“Whether you’re chasing everyday comfort, off-road adventure or driving confidence, Forester delivers in all areas. 

“Every variant brings Subaru’s signature performance, safety and practicality to the fore. We are proud to introduce this exceptional SUV to Kiwi customers.”   

Customers can place their pre-orders now here or by contacting their local Subaru Authorised Centre.

The new Forester will also be on display at Fieldays 2025.

SUBARU FORESTER LIST PRICE

Forester AWD $49,990

Forester AWD Sport $54,990

Forester AWD Touring $56,990

Forester AWD Hybrid $52,990

Forester AWD Hybrid Sport $59,990

Forester AWD Hybrid Touring $60,990