3 Minutes
Subaru Forester Hybrid wins Japan Car of the Year 2025
In a tight contest among notable new models, the Subaru Forester Hybrid — marketed in Japan as the e-Boxer — has been named Japan Car of the Year 2025. The compact SUV beat strong rivals such as the returning Honda Prelude and the Toyota Crown (sold in North America as the Crown Signia), earning praise for its blend of driving performance, fuel efficiency, safety and off-road capability.
Why the Forester stood out
Judges highlighted a well-balanced package: the Forester delivers the kind of all-around utility Subaru is known for while finally introducing a potent hybrid take on its signature flat (boxer) engine. The e-Boxer system improves fuel economy without sacrificing the responsive handling and low center of gravity that drivers expect from Subaru. In their official statement, the Japan Car of the Year panel wrote that the Forester "combines driving dynamics, efficiency, comfort, off-road ability and safety" — values central to Subaru’s DNA.
Safety and driver assist technology
Safety was a decisive factor. The Forester was lauded for advanced driver assistance features including Subaru’s EyeSight X system, comprehensive active safety tech, and pedestrian/cyclist protection measures such as specialized airbags. These systems helped convince judges that the Forester offers a modern, practical safety suite for urban and rural driving alike.
Field and rankings
The competition was fierce. The Honda Prelude’s comeback placed it second, while the Toyota Crown (Crown Signia in North America) took third. The revamped Nissan Leaf and the Volkswagen ID.Buzz rounded out the top five. The result underscores that the jury valued a hybrid SUV’s broad appeal over fully electric candidates this year.
- Winner: Subaru Forester Hybrid (e-Boxer)
- Runner-up: Honda Prelude
- Third: Toyota Crown / Crown Signia
- Fourth and fifth: Nissan Leaf, Volkswagen ID.Buzz
Subaru’s history with the award
This marks Subaru’s fourth Japan Car of the Year title. The marque previously won with the Legacy (fourth generation) in 2003, the fifth-generation Impreza in 2016, and the second-generation Levorg in 2020. The latest victory adds another golden page to Subaru’s record and highlights the brand’s consistent focus on safety and driver engagement.
Market implications and context
At a time when many awards tilt toward battery-electric vehicles, the selection of a hybrid SUV as the overall winner is notable. In the award’s 44-year history, pure EVs have claimed the top prize only twice. The Forester’s win suggests jurors are still looking for a balance between environmental innovation and the traditional driving pleasures and practicalities that many buyers prioritize.
For buyers considering a compact hybrid SUV, the Forester offers a compelling mix of real-world fuel efficiency, capable all-wheel-drive performance, and class-leading safety features. Whether for daily commutes, family trips or light off-road adventures, Subaru’s e-Boxer Forester now carries the credibility of Japan Car of the Year 2025.
"A balanced hybrid SUV that stays true to Subaru’s core values of safety and engagement," the judging panel stated.
Comments
atomwave
Looks nice, but is the e-Boxer really that efficient vs full EVs? Jury liked balance, sure, but long term emissions? Anyone got numbers?
v8rider
wow didn't expect Forester to beat Prelude, nice surprise! Subaru sticking to roots but finally with hybrid punch. curious about real mpg on mixed roads...
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