Unplanned weekend drives. North Luzon loop. Rain-slick back roads. Hidden trailheads. Not all vehicles are made for these journeys, more so one that’s equipped to conquer all three. For drivers who want to roam far and wide without giving up comfort or efficiency, Subaru’s new Forester e-BOXER Hybrid makes a convincing case.
This sixth-generation Forester introduces a strong hybrid system designed to extend range and reduce fuel stops while keeping the sure-footed character Subaru is known for. It’s a practical evolution rather than a radical rethink, and that restraint is part of its appeal.
A Hybrid That Keeps Things Simple
Subaru refers to the powertrain as a “strong hybrid,” pairing a 2.5-liter horizontally opposed four-cylinder boxer engine with a permanent-magnet electric motor integrated into the transmission. Unlike a plug-in, there’s no need to charge the Forester e-BOXER Hybrid. The system charges itself as you drive, automatically blending engine and electric power depending on speed and load.
At low to mid speeds, the Forester can run in an EV Drive mode for quiet, emissions-free travel – ideal for creeping through early-morning neighborhoods or stop-and-go traffic. When the road opens up, the engine takes the lead, with the electric motor stepping in to add torque for brisk overtakes or hill climbs. The result is a linear, confident feel rather than a jolt of instant power, which suits the car’s long-distance character.
With a 63-liter fuel tank and a combined efficiency of 14.9 km/L, Subaru estimates a range of over 1,000 km per fill. That’s a figure aimed squarely at travelers who’d rather see more countryside and fewer petrol stations.
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, Without Compromise
Subaru’s signature Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive remains a core element, continuously shifting power to the wheels with the best grip. On a wet highway or gravel track, it feels planted and reassuring.
A generous 220 mm of ground clearance – greater than many crossovers – means the Forester can clear rutted trails or flood-prone streets without drama. Dual-function X-MODE helps manage tricky surfaces, adjusting throttle response and braking to maintain traction on mud, snow, or steep inclines. Hill Descent Control adds confidence on slippery downhills.
The underlying platform is stiffer than before, which improves ride comfort and reduces vibration. Steering is precise, and the suspension smooths out rough pavement, making long drives less fatiguing for everyone on board.
Comfort for the Miles Ahead
Inside, the Forester strikes a balance between practicality and a quiet, almost understated sense of luxury. Seats co-developed with a Japanese medical center are shaped to reduce fatigue, a small but telling detail when the day stretches past several hundred kilometers. The driver’s chair offers ten-way power adjustment with memory and lumbar support, while the front passenger seat is eight-way adjustable.
The cabin is wide and airy, with excellent outward visibility. Rear passengers enjoy generous legroom and reclining backrests. Fold the 60/40 split rear seats, and the cargo space expands from 484 liters to over 1,600 liters, providing ample room for camping gear or bulky sports equipment.
An 11.6-inch full-HD touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto handles technology. A Harman Kardon audio system, wireless phone charging, and multiple USB ports, both front and rear, keep everyone connected. A hands-free power tailgate and a large glass sunroof add everyday convenience.
The Latest EyeSight Technology
Subaru’s approach to safety has always been layered, and the new Forester builds on that tradition. The chassis features a ring-shaped reinforcement frame that enhances impact absorption, while eight airbags – including a passenger-side airbag – provide comprehensive protection.
The latest EyeSight 4.0 driver-assist system utilizes a wide-angle monocular camera, alongside stereo cameras, to monitor the road. Features include adaptive cruise control, lane centering, pre-collision braking, and autonomous emergency steering. A 360-degree multi-view monitor simplifies parking in tight spots, while steering-responsive headlights and cornering lamps improve night visibility.
Two newer technologies stand out. The Emergency Driving Stop System can safely bring the vehicle to a stop if it detects prolonged inactivity by the driver. The Driver Monitoring System utilizes facial recognition to detect signs of fatigue or distraction and can adjust settings for up to five registered drivers.
Subtle Design, Strong Presence
From the outside, the Forester stays true to its practical roots while adding sharper details. A bold grille and C-shaped LED headlights give it a modern appearance, while muscular wheel arches and 19-inch alloy wheels convey capability without excessive flash. Low-profile roof rails are ready for bikes or a cargo box.
New colors, including River Rock Pearl and Cashmere Gold Opal, provide fresh choices without straying into gimmickry. The look is contemporary but not trendy, likely to age as well as previous Forester generations.
Living With A Hybrid
In everyday use, the e-BOXER’s hybrid system stays in the background. There’s no learning curve, no need to plan charging stops, and no loss of the balanced handling that long-time Subaru owners value. The electric compressor keeps the air conditioning running even when the engine shuts off at a light, a subtle touch that makes urban driving more pleasant.
For families, the long-range and strong safety suite reduces the usual travel stress. For outdoor enthusiasts, the combination of high ground clearance, all-wheel drive, and flexible cargo space makes weekend getaways easier to justify.
The Quiet Appeal of Capability
What sets the Forester e-BOXER Hybrid apart is not a single headline feature but how the pieces fit together. It isn’t the flashiest hybrid SUV, nor the cheapest, but it offers an uncommon blend of efficiency, comfort, and all-terrain ability – all for a P2,498,000 sticker price.
Drivers who want an SUV that can handle the daily grind and still encourage spontaneous detours will find it ready for the challenge. With the sixth-generation Forester, Subaru hasn’t tried to reinvent its best-selling model. Instead, it has refined the formula – adding electric assistance where it helps most, keeping the core strengths intact, and letting the open road remain the focus.
This story was crafted in partnership with Motor Image Pilipinas, Inc.
