5 Major Differences Between Subaru Forester And Forester Hybrid

The new 2025 Subaru Forester Hybrid has arrived at Ewing Subaru of Plano, and to get you ready to know all you can about this brilliant new hybrid, let’s take a quick look at five of the differences between the standard Forester and the Forester Hybrid.  

Digital vs Analog Cluster 

One of the main differences between the two vehicles is the gauge cluster display. The Forester Hybrid features a new 12.3-inch all-digital cluster display compared to the standard car’s part digital and part analog display. The speedometer and rev counter are old school, with a digital screen between the gauges that allows you to toggle through various information about the Forester and change certain settings.  

Different Cluster Display Modes 

While the Forester has a standard gauge cluster, the Forester Hybrid allows you to change the digital cluster display. The default screen is normal mode, displaying a digital speedometer and rpm gauge with the vehicle’s hybrid powertrain information. Holding a button on the left side of the steering wheel allows you to then select either map mode or EyeSight mode. Map mode gives you a full-screen map in your gauge cluster while still showing your speed, fuel range, and the like. You can even use Apple Maps and Google Maps when your phone is plugged in and you are using Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. EyeSight mode displays a digital version of the Forester Hybrid and shows you the various safety systems in action.  

Fuel Door 

The gas-only Forester has a gas refill door that you just press to open. The Hybrid, on the other hand, needs you to press a gas refill button on the left side by the driver door, similar to how it used to be when you had to push a button or pull a lever to open the gas door. This is done to depressurize the gas tank before opening the door to refuel.  

Subtle Alert When Driving at Low Speeds 

Hybrids have both a battery and a gas engine. However, sometimes the gas motor doesn’t need to kick, which is especially true at low speeds. Because the vehicle is essentially noiseless, it is tough for people to hear when it’s coming if they are crossing the street or are blind. This is why, at low speeds, the Forester Hybrid has a subtle tone that is very audible when the vehicle is in motion. Obviously, since the non-hybrid model uses the gas motor all the time, there is no need for this tone to alert people that a car is coming.  

Quicker Throttle Response 

While the 2025 Subaru Forester has a 2.5-liter Subaru Boxer engine, the Forester Hybrid has a battery pack that assists the vehicle in using the gas engine less to make it more efficient. However, one fun feature of any vehicle with an electric battery pack is the ability to get up to speed quicker in certain instances. Battery-powered vehicles have instant power the second you hit the throttle pedal. This really sets itself apart from the non-hybrid as it can get off the line quicker if you need to take off at a light to merge ahead of cars.  

Come Down to Ewing Subaru of Plano to Check Out Your Next Ride 

Both the 2025 Subaru Forester and Subaru Forester Hybrid are available at Ewing Subaru of Plano to look at and test drive. The qualified professional salespeople will happily show you the differences between the two vehicles and then help you find the right one for your budget and needs.  

Why Choose Ewing Subaru of Plano 

At Ewing Subaru of Plano, we have some of the best deals on new and used vehicles. With hundreds of vehicles to choose from, our sales team and finance department will work hard to get you the best price. Our service department will work tirelessly to ensure your vehicle is in the best possible shape to keep your travels safe and enjoyable.  

We look forward to serving you soon!