2025 Subaru Forester open for bookings in Malaysia – CBU model from Japan, expected starting priced at RM166k

The all-new 2025 Subaru Forester is now open for pre-booking in Malayia ahead of its official launch, according to the brand website.

The sixth-generation Subaru Forester, due to arrive in Malaysia soon, will be a fully imported (CBU) model from Japan, according to recent reports. Based on speculations, the car is expected to be equipped with a 2.5-litre naturally aspirated (NA) petrol flat-four engine, following the discontinuation of local assembly at Tan Chong's Segambut plant in June 2023, which had previously produced the previous generation Forester and the Subaru XV.

As the sixth-generation Subaru Forester is fully imported from Japan, a jump in price from its locally assembled predecessor is to be expected. The previous generation, which was assembled in Malaysia, had a range of RM 166,800 to RM 188,800.

Subaru's highly acclaimed Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system continues to be a hallmark of the brand, with the sixth-generation Forester expected to feature the latest iteration of Subaru's Lineartronic CVT automatic transmission and a 2.5-litre petrol engine.

This advanced drivetrain, coupled with a 220 mm ground clearance and the Dual X-Mode system, creates an exceptional off-roading package.

Exterior wise, the Subaru Forester now has a new front grille with slim DRLs flanking on both sides while the rear features the Forester script embossed onto the tailgate just below the blue seven-starred Pleiades badge.

Subaru's enhanced Global Platform serves as the foundation for the latest Forester, promising improved ride comfort and reduced noise, bolstered by a 30% increase in torsional body rigidity. The Malaysian-spec Forester is expected to feature a host of high-end features, including a 360-degree multi-view monitor, wireless charging pads, a 10-way power driver's seat, and a hands-free kick-sensor power rear tailgate