Next-gen Subaru Forester makes PH debut with hybrid power

After teasing the motoring public a few days ago, Subaru Philippines distributor Motor Image Pilipinas has officially joined the hybrid car market. Say hello to the 2026 Subaru Forester e-Boxer Hybrid, and it’s here to give the likes of the Honda CR-V e:HEV, Hyundai Tucson Hybrid, Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, and other self-charging crossover hybrids something to think about.

Starting with what’s under the hood, the Forester e-Boxer Hybrid gets a 2.5L naturally-aspirated Boxer engine that runs on the Atkinson cycle. The engine alone makes a respectable 164 PS at 5600 rpm along with 209 Nm of torque at 3600 - 4800 rpm.

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It is then assisted by an electric motor that’s powered by a 1.1 kWh lithium-ion battery that provides an additional 122 PS and 276 Nm of torque. The result is linear and instant power delivery despite not having a turbo. The powertrain is then mated to a Lineatronic CVT and the brand’s Symmetrical AWD system. With enough charge, the Forester e-Boxer Hybrid can run on electric power and also benefits from regenerative braking.

In terms of size, the all-new Subaru Forester measures 4655mm long, 1830mm wide, 1730mm tall, and has a 2670mm wheelbase.

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Design-wise, the all-new Forester gets a wide grille that features a split-like design, which highlights its massive size. It’s then paired with sleek LED headlights with eye-catching LED daytime running lights, as well as LED foglights placed on the far corners of the bumper. Also new are the LED taillights, which feature a wraparound design and a black horizontal strip on the tailgate to give it more flair.

Other exterior features present on the 2026 Forester include 19-inch alloy wheels, roof rails, a panoramic sunroof, a more angular beltline to give the crossover a more athletic look, and blacked-out A-pillars & D-pillars to give the Forester the illusion of a floating roof.

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Open the doors, and those familiar with modern Subarus will find a tablet-inspired touchscreen infotainment system. It measures 11.6 inches in size and comes with wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto. Complementing it is a premium Harmon Kardon surround sound system for that high-quality audio. Those looking for premium upholstery will be happy to know the Forester e-Boxer Hybrid comes with leather seats (available in either black or brown hues), complete with an ergonomic design for the driver & front passenger for a more relaxing riding experience.

Other amenities available in the 2026 Forester e-Boxer Hybrid include a wireless charging pad, front & rear center armrests, dual-zone climate control with rear vents, a hands-free power tailgate, 60:40 split rear seats, and front & rear USB charging ports.

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For extra peace of mind while on the road, the 2026 Subaru Forester e-Boxer Hybrid comes with the ever-present EyeSight intelligent driver aids. This gives the crossover advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) that serve as the vehicle’s extra pair of eyes. These include: pre-collision braking, pre-collision throttle management, adaptive cruise control, emergency driving stop when the vehicle detects no steering input by the driver, autonomous emergency steering, high-beam assist, lane-centering control, lane departure prevention, and lead vehicle start alert.

Available colors for the 2026 Subaru Forester e-Boxer Hybrid include Autumn Green Metallic, Brilliant Bronze Metallic, Cashmere Gold Opal, Crimson Red Pearl, Crystal Black Silica, Crystal White Pearl, Daybreak Blue Pearl, Ice Silver Metallic, Magnetite Gray Metallic, River Rock Pearl, and Sapphire Blue Pearl.

All-new 2026 Subaru Forester e-Boxer Hybrid is yours for PHP image

The 2026 Subaru Forester e-Boxer Hybrid retails for PHP 2,498,000.