Subaru Forester 2025 set to debut in Vietnam in November

Unlike the current generation, which offers three versions, the Forester 2025 will reportedly be available in just two.

The standard version is expected to be priced at around VND1.3 billion (US$49,320), while the high-end version could reach VND1.5 billion ($56,890).

In comparison, the current models are listed between VND969 million ($36,750) and VND1.199 billion ($45,480).

The completely built-up Forester 2025 will be imported from Japan instead of Thailand.

This change comes after the closure of Subaru’s Thai assembly plant and will likely contribute to the price spike, as Japanese imports are not eligible for ASEAN tax incentives.

For the Vietnamese market, the Forester 2025 is expected to feature a naturally aspirated 2.5L engine, similar to the version recently launched in Indonesia, producing some 180 horsepower and 241 Nm of torque.

This marks a notable improvement over the current 2.0L engine, which delivers 156 horsepower and 192Nm.

The upgraded powertrain promises better performance, addressing previous concerns from Vietnamese customers.

Unlike versions sold in the U.S. and Japan, the Forester, set to be introduced in Vietnam, will not include a hybrid option.

The new Forester made a brief appearance in mid-August at the national motor vehicle emission test center in Hanoi, though leaked photos revealed little about its exterior or equipment.

In Southeast Asia, the car has so far only launched in Indonesia, where it debuted in July in a single variant priced at some VND1.177 billion ($44,670).

The Subaru Forester 2025 features LED headlights, taillights, 18-inch alloy wheels, a power tailgate, a 360-degree camera, and rear parking sensors.

Inside, the Forester is equipped with an 11.6-inch vertical touchscreen infotainment system, supporting wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with standard wireless charging.

The front seats boast ergonomic medical seats, co-developed with Japanese medical institutions to reduce fatigue, with the driver's seat offering 10-way power adjustment.

The Subaru Forester 2025 has retained the traditional analog instrument cluster, opting not to switch to a full digital display.

The central control panel, however, has been streamlined, removing the physical climate control knobs in favor of touchscreen controls, with only buttons for temperature and volume remaining.

The new-generation Forester continues to feature Subaru’s signature full-time all-wheel drive (AWD) system with X-Mode for enhanced off-road capability.

While the chassis is based on the previous generation’s platform, it has been refined to increase structural rigidity by 10 percent.

The new electric power steering system is expected to deliver a more responsive driving experience.

Safety remains a key focus, with the new Forester equipped with Subaru’s latest-generation EyeSight driver-assist system.

It uses a wide-angle camera to enable features such as pre-collision braking, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and steering support, complemented by a 360-degree camera system.