2023 Subaru Forester, the Changes to Expect from All Information Known So Far

As the next year approaches, the 2023 Subaru Forester’s arrival at the dealerships also comes nearer. Here are the predicted details about the upcoming Forester launch.

Subaru has a tradition of introducing a new generation of specific models once every five years of their production cycle, including the Forester. As the last generation of Subaru Forester came in 2018, the next-gen is predicted to be launched in 2024, while the 2023 model will carry over the previous refresher. Here’s everything you need to know about what to expect from the 2023 Subaru Forester.

New 2023 Subaru Forester

Mostly Retained Features of the New Subaru Forester

The Forester is a Subaru-manufactured compact SUV crossover that has been in production for as long as 1997. Currently, it is on its fifth generation, which was revealed in 2018. The last facelift of this model was done in 2021 and marketed as the 2022 model in North America. The Subaru Forester receives a bit revamped rear bumper and an upgraded front-end for this mid-gen refresher.

The six trim levels provided by the current Forester are expected to be retained for the 2023 Subaru Forester, which all of them are available with the AWD system as Standard. The trims comprise Standard, Premium, Sport, Limited, Touring, and Wilderness.

The powertrain is most likely to stay the same. The Forester version for Europe and Japanese markets will carry a 2L e-Boxer mild-hybrid engine with a maximum output power of 148 HP, along with the additional option of a 1.8L turbocharged engine with a total output power of 174 HP for the Japanese market alone. Meanwhile, the U.S. market is provided with a 2.5L Subaru Boxer engine capable of generating 182 HP.

The cabin of the upcoming Forester, if there’s no adjustment to be made, will come with a simple yet accommodating interior space that offers an ergonomic sitting position and wide-open visibility. The leather-covered seat, dash, and door panels are designed thoughtfully with a good-quality layer of textured plastic cuts all over the cabin.

With no 3rd row option, the 2023 Subaru Forester is expected to bring its current spacious rear sitting that supports long road trips even for adults. The back seat room of this model is more significant than its same-class rivals: the Toyota RAV4 and Mazda CX-5.

A Subaru Starlink-equipped touchscreen infotainment system is offered as a standard feature in all of Forester’s trim grades. The touchscreen display is available at 6.5” of size for the Base, Premium, and Sport trim levels, while the 8” inch display is available as Standard for the Touring and Limited trims and as optional for the Sport.

Connectivity options are also convenient, as front-seat occupants are provided with dual USB ports. Owners can opt for two additional USB ports for back-seat passengers as well. Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connections are standard for all trims, with navigation features presented as optional. All trim levels except for the Standard are equipped with an onboard 4G LTE Wi-Fi connection.

New 2023 Subaru Forester

Massive Redesign on 2024 Model Instead

Ever since the Forester XT with the turbocharged engine was axed out in 2019, Subaru enthusiasts have been voiced their opinion about wanting the manufacturer to bring the powertrain back. If the report by Japanese magazine is accurate, then the turbocharged model of Forester will see the world soon. However, instead of being manifested in the 2023 Subaru Forester, it is predicted to appear for the 2024 model and new hybrid technology.

This prediction makes sense since 2024 will be the year where a new generation of Forester should be released. It also matches Subaru’s plan to go with an entirely electrified lineup by 2025 to 2030. Overall, rumors say that the 2024 model will receive a complete engine remodel. Relying on the report, it is also expected that the all-new sixth-generation of Subaru Forester offers increased fuel efficiency.

Estimated Release Date

Subaru Forester first launched as one of the pioneers in the market segment of SUVs. It has become one of the most successful models ever released by Japanese automobile manufacturers during these years.

After receiving an abundance of upgrades in the previous year, there’s a low chance that the 2023 Subaru Forester will make an appearance with plenty of adjustments. Even the current Forester already carries a nice balance between utility, comfort, and driver assistance that it barely needs to change. The new production is expected to have a similar starting price to the current model and release date at 2022’s late fall.