Subaru’s Next-Gen Forester Spotted in Prototype Form
Hybrid Power Likely on the Horizon
Subaru’s 6th-generation Forester made its U.S. debut in November 2023 and hit the market in spring 2024 with a gasoline-powered model featuring a 2.5L horizontally opposed four-cylinder engine. This version of the Forester boasts a more responsive all-wheel-drive (AWD) system and nimble handling, reinforcing its reputation as a versatile and reliable compact SUV.
The U.S. model comes with a new body control system designed to enhance stability both on and off-road, offering a smoother, more controlled driving experience. In Japan, Subaru plans to offer a 1.8L engine in the base models and a hybrid powertrain in the top-tier versions.
Hybrid Prototype Spotted in the U.S.: What’s New for the Forester?
While the new Forester is set to officially launch in Japan in November 2024—with pre-orders already open—spy photographers in the U.S. recently captured images of what appears to be a hybrid version of the Forester undergoing testing. The all-black exterior was intended to disguise the vehicle’s identity, but key design elements were still visible.
The prototype features sharp, angular headlamps that extend toward the sides, a large hexagonal grille with horizontal accents, and blacked-out fog lights integrated into the bumper. These aggressive styling cues give the Forester a more rugged appearance, in line with Subaru’s off-road heritage.
A Sturdy, Rugged Look for the New Forester
For the side, plastic cladding is applied along the angular wheel arches. Above that, a sense of volume is added to emphasize sturdiness. Here, a design that adds volume to the body is applied along the shape of the side and rocker panels. Molding is applied in black for the A-pillar, B-pillar, and C-pillar.
The rear end has a somewhat flat shape, bold tail lamps, and a thick rear bumper. The tail lamps are positioned at the end of the side and protrude toward the rear quarter panel, and the same angular design theme as the front is applied. A rectangular space is created for the tailgate to place the license plate, and protruding lines are applied to the top and bottom of the tailgate.
Next-Generation Hybrid System Expected
Subaru plans to equip the most powerful version of the new Forester with a next-generation hybrid system, first introduced at a joint Toyota-Mazda workshop. While the current e-BOXER hybrid system uses a compact parallel hybrid motor, the upcoming Forester Hybrid will adopt Toyota’s full-fledged series-parallel hybrid technology, known as the THS hybrid system.
The new Forester Hybrid will feature Subaru’s symmetrical AWD layout and a transaxle design incorporating both a generator and drive motor. Production of the next-gen hybrid transaxle is slated to begin in late fall 2024, with vehicle deliveries expected by spring 2025.
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