Subaru Forester 2.5X arrives

Subaru Australia has announced a new special-edition 2023 Subaru Forester 2.5X, priced from $37,890 plus on-road costs.

That’s the same price as the current entry-level Subaru Forester 2.5i, with which the 2.5X shares the majority of its specification – with a few crucial subtractions and additions.

On sale now, with first deliveries due before Christmas, the Forester 2.5X swaps out the standard 8.0-inch infotainment system for a smaller 7.0-inch Alpine system.

That sees wireless smartphone mirroring included in the entry-level X-rated Forester.

However, as well as the smaller screen, the infotainment system loses the CD player, voice command system, over-the-air (OTA) update capability and integrated Bluetooth phone display found on the 2.5i.

The wireless functionality on the 2.5X also does away with one of the two front USB-A ports.

It’s unclear whether global semi-conductor shortages are behind the shift, and whether supplies of the 2.5i are impacted.

The new model also coincides with the arrival of the MY23 update for the Forester announced earlier this year.

Crystal White, Ice Silver, Horizon Blue, Magnetite Grey, Crimson Red and Brilliant Bronze comprise the 2.5X’s exterior colour range, meaning it misses out on the Cascade Green, Autumn Green and Crystal Black finishes available on the 2.5i.

Standard equipment highlights still include a six-speaker sound system, dual-zone climate control, active LED headlights, tyre pressure monitoring, adaptive cruise control and 17-inch alloy wheels.

No changes have been made to the 136kW/239Nm 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine that drives all four wheels via a continuously variable transmission (CVT).

How much does the 2023 Subaru Forester cost?
2.5i – $37,890
2.5X – $37,890
2.5i-L – $40,290
2.5i Premium – $43,090
2.5i Sport – $44,840
2.5i-S – $46,340
Hybrid L – $43,290
Hybrid S – $49,340
*Prices exclude on-road costs

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