2019 Subaru Forester Starts at $25,270

Subaru's 2019 Forester compact SUV will retail for a starting price of $500 more than the comparable outgoing model, as it enters a generational update that brings a new engine, platform, and more standard driver-assisting features, the company announced.

For its fifth generation, the 2019 Forester adds a new 2.5-liter Boxer engine that increases power (to 182 horsepower and 176 pound-feet of torque). Subaru is moving the compact SUV to its Global vehicle platform to improve driving dynamics and add interior room. The vehicle will also offer its EyeSight package and LED headlights across the nameplate.

Subaru will offer five trim grades for the 2019 Forester, including the base, Premium, Sport, Limited, and Touring. All models are equipped with a continuously variable transmission and all-wheel drive.

Subaru eliminated the 2018 base Forester with a six-speed manual transmission, which means there's a $500 price increase when comparing the 2018 base model with the CVT and the new 2019 base model (also with a CVT). The prior base model, which retailed for $22,795, was equipped with the manual transmission, which didn't draw fleet buyers.

Pricing has been set at $25,270 for the base Forester; $27,670 for Premium; $29,770 for Sport; $31,770 for Limited; and $35,270 for Touring. The Sport trim is new for 2019. Pricing includes a $975 delivery fee.

The 2019 Forester also improves its EPA-rated fuel economy in highway driving to 33 mpg (from 32 mpg). City driving remains at 26 mpg, and combined driving increases to 29 mpg (from 28 mpg).

Commercial fleet buyers usually purchase the Premium model on Subaru models, except for the new three-row Ascent, which is drawing fleet buyers to the Limited trim, said Tina Kourakos, national commercial fleet accounts manager.