Subaru's 2025 Forester Sport has proven itself a capable workhorse in long-term testing, though it operates more through competence than enthusiasm. The compact crossover does what you ask of it without fanfare, executing daily duties with the reliability and practicality buyers expect from the nameplate.
The Forester Sport sits in the middle of Subaru's compact SUV lineup, positioned between the smaller Crosstrek and the larger Outback. Its 2.5-liter four-cylinder boxer engine produces 182 horsepower and 176 pound-feet of torque, paired with a continuously variable transmission and standard all-wheel drive. These specs place it squarely in the mainstream of the segment, competitive with the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, and Mazda CX-5.
For drivers prioritizing dependability over excitement, the Forester delivers. The Sport trim adds black exterior trim, upgraded steering feel, and slightly sharper handling dynamics compared to base models. Real-world testing shows the vehicle handles North American driving patterns without complaint. Cargo space measures at 76.5 cubic feet with the rear seats folded, practical for families and those who need to haul gear regularly. The cabin feels durable rather than luxurious, with straightforward controls and a logical layout that requires no learning curve.
Fuel economy falls in the competitive range. The 2025 Forester Sport achieves EPA estimates of 28 city, 35 highway, and 31 combined miles per gallon. That matches or exceeds many rivals while returning real-world numbers close to official claims. Long-term testing reveals no unexpected mechanical drama, fluid leaks, or electrical gremlins. Subaru's reputation for building vehicles that run without complication holds true here.
Where the Forester Sport falls short involves engagement. The steering, while responsive, lacks feedback and feel. The engine, though adequate, generates no excitement during acceleration. The CVT transmission prioritizes smoothness over driver involvement. Ride quality skews toward comfort, which means body roll and lateral movement during spirited driving. None of this makes the Forester unfit for purpose. Rather, it reflects Subaru's design philosophy. The company builds vehicles to serve, not to thrill.
The 2025 model year Forester continues Subaru's incremental approach to updates. The infotainment system now includes an 8-inch touchscreen on base models and an 11.6-inch unit on higher trims, bringing it closer to competitors. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility ships standard. Safety features encompass adaptive cruise control, pre-collision warning, and lane-keeping assist across the range.
Pricing for the Forester Sport sits near $28,000 before destination charges, positioning it within reach of mainstream buyers. Rivals like the CR-V and RAV4 occupy similar territory, though some offer more refined interiors or stronger performance credentials.
The 2025 Forester Sport embodies Subaru's core strength. It won't make your commute exciting or your weekend drive memorable. It will, however, start every morning, carry what you load into it, return decent fuel economy, and accumulate miles without drama. For pragmatic buyers who view vehicles as transportation tools rather than passion projects, that proposition holds genuine value.