The Next-Gen Forester Gets 2 New Features For The First Time On Any Subaru

The newly remodeled 2025 Subaru Forester arrives now at U.S. retailers and features additional technology not found on any other Subaru. While more Subaru models will receive these features, the next-generation Forester is the first to debut the new safety tech and convenience touch.

If you are a regular reader of my reports, you already know what Subaru's EyeSight safety tech does. The latest EyeSight driver assist technology version is standard on all five sixth-generation 2025 Forester trim levels. Check out my report here for additional details.

Subaru says, "The latest version of the EyeSight system features a wide-angle mono camera and operates more smoothly and quickly under a greater range of conditions."

When will the 2025 Subaru Forester be available for U.S. customers to purchase? See where the first models just pulled up. And more new details have surfaced. Read my latest report here. 

Forester EyeSight Tech Improvements

The next-gen Forester's safety tech improvements are thanks to a broader field of view, updated control software, and the addition of an electric brake booster. Subaru says EyeSight can identify cyclists and pedestrians at intersections sooner and, when necessary, alerts the driver and applies braking to avoid collisions. 

An additional active safety feature option package is available for Forester, including reverse automatic braking, blind-spot detection with lane change assist, and rear cross-traffic alert. The option package costs $1,200 and also comes with a power rear gate. 

These features ensure the Forester driver is more informed about what's going on around the vehicle. You've likely been in a parking lot backing up, and a car comes speeding by faster than it should, or a vehicle is in your blind spot when you try to change lanes. Now you're covered from all sides. 

Forester Wilderness Gets Left Out 

Unfortunately, the rugged Forester Wilderness trim level will not have the latest tech upgrades. EyeSight also comes standard on the 2025 Forester Wilderness, but it is a carry-over model identical to the 2024 model year, and it will not have the latest new feature I'll describe next.

The First Time For Forester And Any Subaru Vehicle

The 2025 Forester comes with Emergency Stop Assist (ESA) for the first time on any Subaru vehicle. The safety technology activates if the driver becomes unresponsive to warnings while using Advanced Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane Keep Assist. 

The new ESA standard safety feature will stop the vehicle, activate the hazard lights, and unlock the doors. Subaru's Starlink-connected services will call emergency services, which can respond to your location. 

I can see where this would be very advantageous in an emergency. A driver could fall asleep, have a medical issue, and not respond to the Foresters' warnings. It could be a lifesaver. 

Note: Subaru's Starlink is included in the new Forester with a three-year trial subscription to Safety Plus services and a six-month trial subscription to Safety and Security Plus services. After that, you have to subscribe to get it. 

Forester Debuts A Hands-Free Power Rear Gate

A second feature is available for the first time on any Subaru model. The sixth-generation Forester gets a new kick sensor-activated hands-free power rear gate, which customers can open and close automatically simply by placing their foot under the rear bumper cover. 

Make sure to check out the YouTube video here. Learn how to turn on and use the hands-free power rear gate feature and other things to remember.

How much does the hands-free power gate cost?

The hands-free power rear gate feature costs $1,700 and is part of an option package that includes a Harman Kardon audio system, power rear gate, and reverse automatic braking technology. Unfortunately, it can't be purchased as a stand-alone option. 

I like this feature. If you've been carrying groceries or bags and both hands are busy, you don't want to set them down on the ground. Now, you can seamlessly access the cargo area in the 2025 Forester, even when your hands are full. 

Subaru says, "Just a simple motion with your foot opens or closes the hands-free Power Rear Gate, letting you pack or unpack easily."

The redesigned 2025 Forester also features a new exterior design, Subaru's latest infotainment system, and a quieter cabin. There's a lot more than that. You can read my report here.

It's not a first for Subaru, but an available Surround-View Monitor on the redesigned Forester offers a "bird's-eye view" of the SUV and its surroundings to better maneuver the Forester compact SUV into tight parking spaces.

Have you ever gotten too close to one of the light posts with a concrete base you can't see? You can get too close and get a nasty scrape on the side of your rear fender. The Surround-View Monitor will help you see those hidden dangers.

Overall, I'd give Subaru an A for the new safety and convenience technology on the latest Forester. 

What is the next-generation 2025 Subaru Forester pricing?

Now we know how much the price increased, and it's significant. Before you read this, consider taking a seat.

What do you think of the Emergency Stop Assist and Hands-Free Power Rear Gate on the remodeled 2025 Forester? Click the red Add New Comment link below to join the discussion.

I am Denis Flierl, a top Torque News reporter since 2012. I’ve invested over 13 years in the automotive industry in a consulting role, working with every major car brand. I am an experienced Rocky Mountain Automotive Press member. You'll find my expert Subaru analysis here. Follow me on my X SubaruReport, All Subaru, WRXSTI, @DenisFlierl, Facebook, and Instagram.

Photo credit: Adventure Subaru