Subaru Forester Hybrid debuting in Chicago on Feb. 6 ... who’s excited?

Subaru is revealing two SUVs at the Chicago Auto Show on Feb. 6. One is definitely the Forester Wilderness (it leaked online last month), but the other is probably the Forester Hybrid. It’s got a new hybrid system like the Crosstrek Hybrid, and should be way more fuel-efficient than the gas version. Better acceleration too, especially in the city. Anyone else following this?



This the one with the 2.5L flat-four and electric motor setup?

Christie said:
This the one with the 2.5L flat-four and electric motor setup?

Yeah, same hybrid system as the Crosstrek. The engine does 158 hp and 154 lb-ft, motor adds 118 hp and 199 lb-ft.

How much better is the MPG gonna be compared to the gas Forester?

frank said:
How much better is the MPG gonna be compared to the gas Forester?

Gas Forester does 29 MPG combined, but the hybrid is expected to hit around 35 MPG. Plus, it could go up to 600 miles on a full tank.

Is this AWD like the RAV4 Hybrid?

Tanaka said:
Is this AWD like the RAV4 Hybrid?

Nope, RAV4 Hybrid powers the rear wheels with an electric motor. Forester Hybrid keeps Subaru’s symmetrical AWD with a mechanical link between front and rear wheels.

Anyone know if the Wilderness trim will have a hybrid option?

Vic said:
Anyone know if the Wilderness trim will have a hybrid option?

Not confirmed, but it’d make sense. More torque for off-road use and better fuel efficiency would be a nice combo for the Wilderness trim.

What’s the deal with EV mode?

Marsden said:
What’s the deal with EV mode?

It can run in all-electric mode for short distances. Useful for reducing emissions and noise in neighborhoods.