The company revisited the new Forester, meaning the 2023 YM is coming without big changes. Well, it is time for the mid-cycle update, but we’ll wait for a bit more. The highlight of the 2023 Subaru Forester will be the hybrid model. Such a system is required so the crossover can stay competitive. Forester is doing well on the market, achieving more than 170k sales in past six seasons. With a hybrid engine, Subaru wants more homes for its product.
The main highlight and reason why you should buy the 2023 Subaru Forester is the unique driving impression. The Boxer engine and a four-wheel drive are standard. Hybrid is a good alternative. The Forester XT is not joining the lineup with the turbocharged engine. Wilderness model is there for off-road enthusiasts. Nevertheless, there is a lot of room for improvement.
The 2023 Forester could be more competitive if engineers manage to increase the towing capacity. On the other hand, Ascent is there if you need to haul a lot. Drivers are not too happy with the CVT transmission. That is where buyers are expecting changes in the upcoming model. Standard equipment is not going to disappoint, while safety is among the best in the world.
Boxer Engine Specs
Under the bonnet of the 2023 Forester stays a 2.4-liter flat-four Boxer unit. The crossover is getting 182 horsepower and 175 lb-ft of torque. This is a nice output, but the strongest side of the vehicle is a low point of gravity thanks to the engine position. It makes cornering and maneuvering smoother. A CVT transmission sends power to all wheels like we used to see on every Subaru vehicle. Having this in mind, the gas mileage is becoming even more impressive. The new Forester will return 30 mpg combined. But, changes on the gearbox can make the ride even more efficient. Owners have a lot of complaints about the CVT and the Japanese manufacturer is considering a replacement.
Improvements Needed: Better Towing Capacity
Besides the new gearbox, another segment related to the engine and specifications is considered as a downside. That is a poor towing capacity. Well, this can be observed from two points of view. The first one – is a compact crossover. Buyers are after those vehicles because of their size and gas mileage. On most occasions, 1,500 pounds will do the job. But, if we compare the 2023 Subaru Forester to the competition, this is definitely going to be a big disadvantage. Toyota Rav4 and Chevy Equinox can haul 3,500 lbs.
2023 Subaru Forester Hybrid and Electric Systems
It seems like bosses are not too worried about this. The priority is an alternative to a 2.4-liter mill. Of course, Boxer will be there as well, but there are a few interesting stories. The most likely outcome should be the 2023 Subaru Forester hybrid system, to remain competitive and ready for new challenges. Only Crosstrek is using such a technology in the crossover and SUV segments for now.
The new Solterra concept could make the Forester go all-electric in the foreseeable future. The platform looks cool and the vehicle is expected to appear already in 2023. Specs are still unknown, but some of the Subaru trademarks are certain, such as the 4×4 drive.
2023 Subaru Forester XT Comeback
While the new technology still doesn’t have too many fans, another model is a wish of old-school drivers. The 2023 Subaru Forester XT would be the performance crossover with more than 200 hp. While the Outback XT is using a 2.5-liter engine, the Forester might deploy a smaller displacement, probably a 2.0-liter mill. Well, that will be the comeback of a similar configuration that was ready to crack 250 horsepower and 258 lb-ft.
Interior Features and Packages
While all those engines and packages are still rumors, the existing trim levels are ready to be carried over to the new model. The base equipment includes AWD and nearly 9 inches of ground clearance. Safety is on the high level, and there is even a reminder for rear-seat belts. Starling infotainment supports both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Premium package upgrades the base offer with a power-adjustable driver bucket, push-button start and keyless entry, panoramic moonroof, and 17-inch wheels.
The 2023 Subaru Forester Sport will be easily recognizable thanks to large wheels and distinctive details. Blind-spot detection, SI-Drive system, and two-tone colors are also highlights of the Sport model. Leather upholstery is there for the Limited edition, as well as the power tailgate. Finally, the top of the range version stays Touring (unless 2023 Subaru Forester XT comes back). Special materials and colors are used, while the Starlink multimedia gets all the options not there for lower packages. This season, we saw a debut of the Wilderness model. Expect a carry-over for the off-road ready configuration.
The price of the new Forester will depend on the level of changes across the lineup. But, the base version is not gaining too much value, starting at around $25,000. The ST will settle somewhere between $35,000 and $40,000.
