My lease on the 2021 Forester Limited is ending soon, and I’m debating whether to buy it out or go for the new 2025 Forester. A local dealer has one with all the features I want. I know the new design has been criticized, but how does it actually drive? Is it a real upgrade or should I just keep my 2021?
Really happy with my 2025 Forester Touring. The ride is smooth, and the cabin is super quiet.
Heather said:
Really happy with my 2025 Forester Touring. The ride is smooth, and the cabin is super quiet.
How’s the infotainment screen? I had an Outback loaner and found the glare to be bad. Not sure if it was just the angle or if it’s a common issue.
@ethan_johnson
The screen can be turned off when not needed. It’s great for navigation, and I don’t find it too distracting.
@ethan_johnson
No glare issues for me. It might depend on the windshield angle. The screen is useful, but I wish I didn’t have to switch away from navigation to access SiriusXM.
Heather said:
Really happy with my 2025 Forester Touring. The ride is smooth, and the cabin is super quiet.
I have the base model, and the vibration is terrible. I feel every small bump. Not happy with it at all.
Can you get used to the bigger infotainment screen?
CarEnthusiast said:
Can you get used to the bigger infotainment screen?
That’s one of the biggest things holding me back.
CarEnthusiast said:
Can you get used to the bigger infotainment screen?
That’s one of the biggest things holding me back.
I have the Premium trim, not the Sport, but the screen is fine. Most essential controls (defogger, temperature, volume) are still physical, and the HVAC settings stay on screen. I don’t think it’s a dealbreaker.
I just paid off my 2021 Forester and I’m keeping it. The residual cost should be around $12k-$15k, and with low mileage from leasing, it’s a good deal. Paying it off in a couple of years is better than taking on a new car payment.
@Clovis
By residual, do you mean the 2021 model is worth only $12k-$15k?
Finlo said:
@Clovis
By residual, do you mean the 2021 model is worth only $12k-$15k?
No, that’s how much would be left to pay if the lease is bought out. The market value is likely higher.
I love my 2021 but thought about upgrading for the quieter ride in the 2025 model. The huge screen is a dealbreaker for me. I decided to keep my 2021 and wait for the hybrid in 2026.
irmah said:
I love my 2021 but thought about upgrading for the quieter ride in the 2025 model. The huge screen is a dealbreaker for me. I decided to keep my 2021 and wait for the hybrid in 2026.
I had an Outback loaner and the screen glare was pretty bad. That’s my biggest hesitation too.
@ethan_johnson
The Forester’s screen sits more upright. No glare issues on mine.
We’ve had Subarus before but never a Forester. Read a lot of good things and ended up getting the 2025. It’s quiet, smooth, and well worth the price.
Does the 2025 model have noticeable wind noise?
Devlin said:
Does the 2025 model have noticeable wind noise?
Coming from a 2021 to a 2025, it’s much quieter. Hardly hear the engine at all.
Devlin said:
Does the 2025 model have noticeable wind noise?
There’s some wind noise at highway speeds, but that’s expected in non-luxury SUVs. It’s still quieter than older models.
How does the 2025 Forester compare to the 2024 model?