Subaru Just Improved Forester’s Worst Feature

The 2025 Subaru Forester, a significant leap forward from its 2024 predecessor, has successfully addressed a major concern of the previous model. This pioneering revision, a first for any Subaru model, is certain to be warmly welcomed by all customers.

Hate the old one? I bet you'll like the new one.

Ok, hate is a strong word, but I'm not far off. The Subaru Forester is still the top-selling model in Subaru of America's lineup, and the next-generation 2025 Forester just got better. The Auto Stop/Start is a fuel-saving feature that owners of the fifth-generation model disliked the most.

Forester owners say they despise the compact SUV's stop/start system more than anything else, so much that they turn it off. Subaru says it's improved. Read my most despised Auto Stop/Start feature story here.

Subaru has made significant improvements to the Auto Stop/Start feature, a change that is sure to please potential buyers and current owners.

The 2025 Forester is powered by an updated version of Subaru's 2.5-liter, four-cylinder Boxer engine. It now produces 180 horsepower and 178 pound-feet of torque.

Subaru says the engine produces more power at lower rpm, making it quicker off the line. Essential engine parts have been updated to make the engine more efficient, reliable, and lighter—the auto-stop/start is one of them.

However, the most significant upgrade could be Forester's new automatic stop/start system, which is designed to save fuel. The feature was added to many Subaru vehicles starting in 2020 and 2021. You know how it works if it's on your Subaru model.

Subaru isn't alone.

Many automakers use a system that automatically stops the engine when the car comes to a complete stop for more than a few seconds. This system saves fuel whenever the vehicle stops at a stop sign or waits at a traffic light. It does work. Read my report here.

In previous Forester and Outback models, Subaru's stop/start system shakes the car more than any other automaker's. A recent San Diego Union-Tribune column says Subaru is among the worst for engine vibration on restart. They say Subaru's Boxer engine design, in which the horizontally opposed pistons create more significant side-to-side movement and more vibration.

While Subaru has not publicly announced the improvement of Forester's new auto stop/start system, a report from Automotive News reassures us, stating that "The stop-start system is barely detectable." This news will surely bring relief to current owners.

There's more.

But the improvements don't stop there. The 2025 Forester boasts a range of additional upgrades that will surely pique potential buyers' interest.

On Sport trim levels and up, paddle shifters on the wheel allow them to simulate eight fixed transmission ratios, up from seven on the outgoing Forester. Other changes include revised tuning to the standard all-wheel-drive system for better stability while cornering.

A hybrid version of the Forester comes with a power and fuel economy that will be officially announced later. Stay tuned.

Other notable new Forester upgrades

Automotive News says, "Subaru buyers have long coveted the ability to go anywhere. But they increasingly want more creature comforts and connectivity, a major focus of the latest Forester."

Automotive News says there are additional notable new Forester updates. They are:

Improvements in the engine's noise, vibration, and harshness
Forester's new electronically assisted steering rack provides more direct response natural steering dynamics and is more comfortable to drive.
Forester features an upgraded crash structure to meet future crash tests.
Forester gets new convenience tech: A 360-degree overhead camera view, a smart rear-view mirror, and a new kick sensor-activated hands-free power rear liftgate.
The next-generation Forester receives all-new, more comfortable seats.
Roof racks and rails are standard across the Forester lineup for the first time.
The more extensive rear cargo area has new mounts and utility hooks for securing accessories.
Hidden outdoor references.

Automotive News says, "Subaru engineers and designers know their customers and have tucked references to outdoor life throughout the latest Forester. There are paw prints, boot prints, a lantern, a telescope, a compass, and the outline of a mountain range embossed on interior door panels. The silhouette of a bird is featured in the corner of several glass panels."

Subaru Corporation listened to its customers and improved its worst feature, the auto stop/start system. Thank you, Subaru.

Let us know your opinion on Subaru's auto stop/start feature. Do you dislike it or live with it? Click the red Add New Comment link below and let us know.

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: Competition Subaru

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