December 4, 2025

Subaru Forester Wins 2025-2026 Japan Car of the Year

Tokyo, December 4, 2025 - Subaru Corporation is pleased to announce that the Subaru Forester has been named of 2025-2026 Japan Car of the Year.

2025-2026 Japan Car of the Year Subaru Forester (Japanese model)
2025-2026 Japan Car of the Year Subaru Forester (Japanese model)

The Forester is a true SUV that can meet the expectations of all passengers in everyday to extraordinary environments, by further enhancing its functionality and practicality with excellent driving performance that makes it enjoyable, advanced safety features that provide peace of mind, and utility that can be used to the fullest.

Since its launch in Japan in April 2025, the all-new Forester has been highly regarded from many customers for its bold and stately proportioned exterior design, the next-generation hybrid system that achieves a superior balance between driving performance and environmental performance, and high safety features, including the world first pedestrian protection airbag compatible with cyclist. As a result, by November 30th, 2025, cumulative orders of Forester have exceeded 30,000 units, surpassing its initial sales plan.
This is the fourth time Subaru has been awarded the honor of Japan Car of the Year, following the Levorg win in 2020.

Comment of Atsushi Osaki, Representative Director, President and CEO, Subaru Corporation
“As we accelerate our Manufacturing Innovation initiatives to expand our product lineup that meets diverse customer needs, this award greatly strengthens our confidence. We sincerely appreciate the support from our customers and all other stakeholders, and will continue to enhance our core value of ‘Enjoyment and Peace of Mind’ to deliver attractive products going forward.”

2025-2026 Japan Car of the Year Awards
Passenger cars officially announced in Japan between November 1, 2024 and October 31, 2025 are eligible and selection committee selects the winner by voting. Awards includes “Japan Car of the Year” and “Import Car of the Year,” also with category awards “Design Car of the Year,” “Technology Car of the Year,” and “Executive Committee’s Special Award”.

###