Subaru’s distributor in Vietnam will introduce the Forester hybrid, making it the brand’s second hybrid model after the Crosstrek, according to a source from VnExpress. This C-segment vehicle, equipped with a hybrid powertrain, will be imported as a completely built-up unit from Japan.

The primary distinction of the Subaru Forester hybrid, compared to the gasoline version currently available, is the addition of an electric motor delivering 118 horsepower and 270 Nm of torque, coupled with a 1,1 kWh lithium-ion battery. When combined with the 2,5-liter gasoline engine, which produces 162 horsepower and 209 Nm of peak torque, the hybrid powertrain achieves a total output of 194 horsepower.

The Forester hybrid comes with an ecvt gearbox and Subaru’s signature symmetrical all-wheel drive system.

The Forester hybrid in Japan. Photo: Subaru

The design is largely similar to the standard version.

18-inch wheels for the base version.

The cockpit of the hybrid EX version in Japan.

Fabric seats in the base version.

Leather seats in the higher-trim version.

In Japan, the Forester hybrid versions achieve a combined fuel consumption of approximately 5,32-5,43 liters/100 km. In contrast, the 2,5-liter gasoline Forester in Vietnam consumes about 7,1-7,4 liters/100 km. This indicates that the hybrid version offers a fuel consumption reduction of about 25% compared to the standard model.

Details regarding the equipment for the Subaru Forester hybrid in the Vietnamese market are not yet available. In Japan, the hybrid version’s interior and exterior design are similar to the gasoline model. Standard features on the Forester hybrid in Japan include 18-inch wheels, an 11,6-inch infotainment screen, a 12,3-inch speedometer, and power-adjustable front seats. It also incorporates the EyeSight safety system.

The price of the Subaru Forester hybrid in Japan starts at approximately USD 26,800. In Vietnam, the pure gasoline versions of the Forester are priced between 1.299-1.399 billion dong.

Unlike the Crosstrek hybrid in Vietnam, which is a mild-hybrid (MHEV), the upcoming Forester hybrid is a self-charging hybrid (HEV), featuring an electric motor capable of independent operation.

In the C-segment CUV market, prior to the Subaru Forester, Vietnamese customers already have hybrid options available, such as the Honda CR-V (1.17-1.25 billion dong), Jaecoo J7 (879 million dong), and BYD Sealion 6 (789-899 million dong).

Pham Trung