Subaru Forester hybrid interior, dashboard & comfort

The Forester hybrid's dashboard feels durable without being too drab, and all of the key functions are easy to find. It does look rather clunky and dated from a design perspective, and it’s button-heavy on the steering wheel, but the touchscreen is big, easy to use and includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard. The driving position is very good, with a power-adjustable seat on both trim levels that offers a good breadth of adjustment to better enjoy the great visibility. A central armrest is standard in the front and back.

Subaru Forester hybrid dashboard

The Forester’s dashboard is dominated by the big touchscreen in its centre, with a smaller, grainier screen positioned above it to show the powertrain and trip-computer information. Otherwise, the air-conditioning buttons are straightforward and the driver’s dials are easy to read. What can be confusing is the array of buttons on the steering wheel, but otherwise there’s a durable, function-first feel to the dashboard that’s in keeping with the rest of the car.

Equipment, options & accessories

Even the entry-level Forester XE gets automatic LED headlights, keyless entry and go, a touchscreen, heated seats and a reversing camera, but you have to go for the top-spec Premium to get leather upholstery, a heated steering wheel and rear seats, a sunroof and bigger alloy wheels.

Infotainment, apps & sat nav

The eight-inch touchscreen system is standard in every Forester, but you have to go for Premium to get sat nav. However, you do get Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone connectivity as standard, so using the map apps on your phone instead is easier. And you won’t be missing out on much given that the factory sat nav has rather dated-looking graphics. As a whole, the system responds quickly enough and the key features are easy to find and control.