Subaru Forester

How it looks when you see on the street: In the Northeast, where we test cars, the Subaru Forester fits right in.  That’s because it’s so popular with professionals that a Forester badge can be found on virtually every roadside stop. Forester debuted in the late 90s and still has appeal for the get up and go types. The sixth generation is new for 2025 and gets a bit grungier in a good way. The newest Forester projects an outdoorsy vibe that makes it the car of choice in mountain country. Take note that the Wilderness trim is a carryover from the last Forester generation.

How it makes you feel when you get in: Subaru makes a plain, comfortable and spartan interior. Seats have a decent amount of padding for passenger comfort. Subaru has bumped up to a 11.6-inch tablet-style touchscreen display used on the Outback. Safety features include EyeSight Driver Assist Technology that embeds Advanced Adaptive Cruise Control and Steering Responsive LED headlights.

How it drives: Winter ready! All-wheel drive is standard. Performance is a bit bland, and not the reason to buy a Forester, but Subaru stuck with the same engine. The power isn’t primed on the gas pedal. It’s all about feeling grounded behind the wheel of a trusty Forester. For an all-gas vehicle of this size, 29 miles per gallon isn’t bad. Forester has a hybrid option that’s new for 2025. It clocks 194 horsepower and earns 35 miles in combined city and highway driving.

The Wilderness trim means extra ground clearance, better traction and terrain-primed tires. Standard safety such as Subaru EyeSight Driver Assist Technology helps drivers avoid rear end collisions.

Space for people and things: Space is where the Forester sacrfices compared to its biggest competitors.

What to compare it to: Mazda CX-50 the Honda CRV.

How much does it cost: At the low end, the Forester starts at $29,695 MSRP. The Subaru Forester Limited starts at $35,995.