MotorCaliberNHTSA Safety Index

MODEL

Subaru Forester Hybrid Safety

NHTSA safety across every Subaru Forester Hybrid model year we cover.

Across the 1 model year of the Subaru Forester Hybrid we cover (2026 to 2026), the strongest crash-test showing is the 2026 at 94 on the NHTSA Safety Index. 2 recalls have been issued across those years.

THE MOTORCALIBER REVIEW
MotorCaliber editorial ◆ Reviewed against NHTSA data ◆ 2026-10-01

The 2026 Subaru Forester Hybrid has not yet been rated by NHTSA. No federal crash-test star ratings, rollover risk, or recall data are available for review. Without these critical data points, a comprehensive safety assessment cannot be completed. Owners have filed no complaints with NHTSA for this model year.

The 2026 Subaru Forester Hybrid achieved a perfect five stars in both frontal and side crash evaluations from NHTSA, contributing to its overall Safety Index of 94 out of 100. This places the vehicle in the Exceptional band, a strong showing for the compact SUV segment. The rollover rating stands at four out of five stars, a respectable outcome, but one that prospective buyers should note, particularly those who regularly carry passengers or utilize roof-mounted cargo. For the 2026 model year, NHTSA has documented two recalls. Owners should verify any open recalls and their remedy status directly with NHTSA. Owner complaints for this model year total eleven, with no reports of crashes, fires, injuries, or fatalities among them. While complaints remain unverified allegations, their nature here presents a genuinely reassuring picture for a new model. The Forester Hybrid's safety profile is among the stronger we have observed in its segment for 2026, with its crash-test performance providing significant confidence.

WHAT REVIEWERS SAYReviewers generally regard the Forester Hybrid as a well-rounded compact SUV with a composed, confidence-inspiring driving character. Most praise its practical cabin layout, comfortable ride quality, and strong standard-feature content relative to its price point. Some note that interior materials and refinement are competitive but not class-leading. The electrified powertrain tends to earn positive marks for smoothness in everyday driving.

WHAT TO KNOW
  • The 2026 Forester Hybrid earned an NHTSA Safety Index of 94 out of 100, landing in the Exceptional band - one of the stronger scores in the compact SUV segment for the 2026 model year.
  • NHTSA crash tests returned five out of five stars in both frontal and side impact evaluations, but the rollover rating is four out of five stars, which buyers hauling passengers or cargo at height should factor into their decision.
  • Two recalls have been issued for the 2026 model year. Before purchasing or taking delivery, shoppers should check NHTSA's VIN lookup tool to confirm whether any open recall applies to the specific vehicle and whether the remedy has been performed.
  • Eleven owner complaints have been filed with NHTSA for the 2026 model year, with zero reported crashes, fires, injuries, or deaths among them. While complaints are unverified allegations, the absence of any injury-related reports is a positive early indicator for a newly launched model.

Most-recalled year on record: 2026 Subaru Forester Hybrid with 2 recalls.

BY YEARForester Hybrid by model year

Other Subaru models