The 2025 Subaru Forester has the bones of a reliable commuter—but with the right upgrades, it becomes a weekend-ready trail machine. Whether you’re aiming for more ground clearance, better traction, or added protection for rugged terrain, this SUV can be transformed into a capable off-road build without losing its daily drivability.
In this guide, we’ll cover the five best off-road upgrades for the 2025 Subaru Forester. You’ll learn how all-terrain tires, lift kits, suspension enhancements, body protection, and off-road gear can work together to improve performance and durability on dirt roads, rocky paths, and everything in between. We’ve also included a critical checklist of things to inspect before making any modifications to your Forester.
If you’re ready to take your build to the next level, visit or contact Cascade Subaru—your local destination for off-road parts, expert service, and trail-tested advice in Wenatchee, Sunnyslope, Malaga, and Rock Island.
5 Best Off-Roading Upgrades for Your Subaru Forester
Looking to take your off-roading exploits a notch higher? Consider these five upgrades for your 2025 Subaru Forester.
1. All-Terrain Tires
Tires are the first thing that hit the ground—and the first upgrade most drivers make. If you plan to drive on dirt, gravel, or snow, street tires just won’t cut it. All-terrain tires give your Forester better grip, stronger sidewalls, and more peace of mind when the road gets rough.
The right set of tires can:
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Improve grip on loose dirt and mud
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Add a small boost in ground clearance
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Resist cuts, chips, and sidewall wear
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Help with control in wet or slick spots
Two common sizes for off-road builds include:
Most drivers choose 215s for light trail use. They work well for day trips near Wenatchee or light snow in Sunnyslope. The 235s are better for rougher trails or if your Forester has a small lift kit installed.
It’s one of the easiest 2025 Subaru Forester off road mods to start with—and one that makes a big impact. Just remember: the bigger the tire, the more stress it can put on your car’s parts. Pick a size that fits your goals, your build, and your local trails.
2. Lift Kit
A lift kit helps your Forester clear rocks, deep ruts, and snow-packed trails. It also gives you room for bigger tires. With more space under the car, you get better approach angles and less risk of damage.
For most drivers, a 2-inch lift is the sweet spot. It offers trail-ready height without making the ride too rough or complex.
There are two main types of lift kits:
Here’s what a good lift kit can do:
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Raise the car’s center to help with steep climbs
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Reduce damage from rocks, stumps, and ruts
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Give space for larger tires
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Improve trail grip when paired with new struts
If you go higher than 2 inches, you’ll need more support parts. These can include:
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Subframe or trailing arm spacers
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Brake line extenders
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Steering shaft extensions
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Rear sway bar links
The 2025 Subaru Forester off road mods and upgrades that include a lift should always match your use. A mild kit is great for forest trails near Malaga. A full coilover system works better for steep or rocky paths near Rock Island.
No matter which route you take, lifting your Forester gives you more freedom and fewer limits off the road.
3. Upgraded Suspension
A lift kit gives your Forester more height. But upgraded suspension gives it better control, more grip, and a smoother ride. This matters most when the trail gets rough or when your car is loaded with gear.
Old shocks and worn springs can sag or bounce. That makes it harder to stay in control off the road. A strong suspension keeps all four wheels on the ground—even when the trail doesn't.
Here’s what a suspension upgrade can improve:
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Smoother ride over rocks and bumps
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More grip when crossing steep or uneven paths
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Less sway when packed with gear or cargo
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Better support for roof racks or tents
Many drivers add:
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Heavy-duty springs: Great for holding up gear and keeping a level stance
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Long-travel coilovers: More flex, more comfort, and more control over rough ground
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Upgraded struts: Helps tires stay in contact with the ground longer
These upgrades are a key step in any Subaru Forester off road build. For light trails near Sunnyslope, heavy-duty springs may be enough. For steeper climbs or longer trips near Rock Island, coilovers give you the edge.
Done right, suspension mods make your Forester safer, smoother, and easier to drive when the road ends.
4. Skid Plates and Body Protection
Rocks, stumps, and ruts can do real damage when you're off the road. One hard hit in the wrong spot can stop your trip short. That’s why body and undercarriage protection is one of the smartest upgrades you can make.
Skid plates shield the parts under your Forester that matter most. These include the oil pan, transmission, and rear diff. Without protection, even a small bump can lead to a costly repair.
Here’s what to protect first:
A front bumper with a high clearance design can also help. It boosts your approach angle and gives you space for a light bar or winch. Some drivers also add rear bumpers or tailgate guards.
Here’s how these upgrades help:
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Keep your car safe during hard bottom-outs
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Reduce risk of fluid leaks from sharp rocks
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Protect paint and panels when you slide sideways
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Add long-term value and peace of mind
Many 2025 Subaru Forester off road upgrades start with tires or a lift. But without proper protection, one wrong move could undo all that work. For trails near Wenatchee or rocky spots around Malaga, this gear is a must.
5. Off-Road Gear and Storage Accessories
Even the best tires or lift kit won't help if you get stuck with no gear. That’s why storage and trail tools are just as key as other upgrades. They help you stay safe, stay dry, and keep moving—no matter the trail.
Start with the basics:
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Traction boards: Get out of mud or sand with ease
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Snatch straps: Pull your car or help others get unstuck
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12V air compressor: Air down for grip, air up for the drive home
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Shovel: Dig out of snow, sand, or mud
Storage makes all the difference on longer trips. If your Forester is packed, you’ll want gear that’s easy to find and built to last.
Here are some smart add-ons:
One thing to keep in mind is weight. The more you carry, the more it can change how your Forester feels off the road. Try to keep gear light, packed low, and balanced from front to back.
Many 2025 Subaru Forester off road mods focus on power and lift—but gear is what makes trips work. Whether you’re camping near Rock Island or hitting trails around Sunnyslope, the right tools help you go farther with less stress.
What Makes the 2025 Subaru Forester a Great Off-Road Platform?
The 2025 Forester is built for more than just errands and city roads. With a few key upgrades, it becomes a strong off-road machine. Its balanced frame, smart traction system, and light weight make it a great base for trail use.
Here’s why the Forester stands out:
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All-wheel drive comes standard: No need to add it or pay more. It sends power to the wheels with the most grip.
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Ground clearance is generous: At around 8.7 inches, you can clear rocks and ruts with ease—even before adding lift.
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It’s light but strong: A lighter build means better control on tight trails and less strain on the engine.
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Room for gear: With fold-down seats and roof space, the Forester can carry tools, tents, and spare parts with no fuss.
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Great gas mileage for its class: You can go farther without needing to stop and fill up as often.
The 2025 Subaru Forester off-road upgrades also work well with its stock setup. You won’t need to change the whole vehicle to see results. In fact, even small changes—like tires or a lift kit—can make a big impact.
Drivers in Wenatchee, Sunnyslope, and beyond choose the Forester for one main reason: it does more with less. It's ready for backroads, dirt trails, and long weekends off the grid. And with the right tools and mods, it’s easy to make it your own.
What Should You Check Before Upgrading Your 2025 Subaru Forester for Off-Roading?
Before you install new parts or hit the trail, it’s smart to make sure your Forester is in top shape. Off-road upgrades can add stress to your car, so a clean, solid base matters more than many people think.
Start with these key checks:
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Change fluids: Oil, coolant, brake, and gear fluids should be fresh and full
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Check belts and hoses: Look for wear, cracks, or dry spots
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Inspect spark plugs and wires: These help with smooth starts and strong power
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Examine brakes: Pads, rotors, and lines should all be in good shape
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Test wheel bearings: Listen for hums or rough turns when you drive
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Look for rust: Check the rear strut towers and subframe—these spots rust first
If you find issues, fix them before adding weight or lift. Even the best 2025 Subaru Forester off road mods and upgrades won’t work well if your base is weak or worn out.
Need a hand before starting your build? Schedule a quick checkup at our Subaru service center. Our trained techs can make sure your Forester is trail-ready from the ground up.
You should also think about tire wear and alignment. Off-road tires can make things worse if your car already pulls or shakes. A basic alignment check now can save you big trouble later.
No upgrade list is complete without a strong start. A clean, checked Forester means you can install gear with less worry—and drive with more peace of mind.
Many drivers researching off-road upgrades for their Forester also have questions about its base capability, trim options, and performance potential. The answers below will help you decide which setup best fits your goals—whether you're planning light trail use or a more advanced off-road build.
Is the 2025 Subaru Forester good for off-roading?
The 2025 Subaru Forester is good for light to moderate off-roading thanks to its standard all-wheel drive, 8.7 inches of ground clearance, and durable build.
What is the best 2025 Subaru Forester trim for off-road?
The Wilderness trim is the best 2025 Subaru Forester trim for off-road use, offering enhanced suspension, improved approach angles, and all-terrain tires from the factory.
What is the ground clearance of a 2025 Subaru Forester?
The 2025 Subaru Forester has 8.7 inches of ground clearance, while the Wilderness trim offers 9.2 inches.
How do I get more horsepower out of my Subaru Forester?
To get more horsepower out of your Forester, consider an ECU tune, high-flow air intake, or upgraded exhaust system. Keep in mind that performance mods may affect your warranty and emissions compliance.
If you're ready to upgrade your Forester or want help picking the right parts, our team is here to help. Contact or visit Cascade Subaru for expert guidance, trusted service, and the best selection of off-road gear in the Wenatchee area.
Start Your Forester Build with Cascade Subaru
Looking to start your next off-road build or need help picking the right gear? The team at Cascade Subaru is ready to help. We serve drivers from Wenatchee, Sunnyslope, Malaga, and Rock Island with expert service, great deals, and a wide selection of new and used Subaru vehicles—including the latest Forester.
Want to keep your car in top shape after your upgrades? Check out our Subaru maintenance tips. For all-weather performance advice, explore our all-weather Subaru lineup. And if you're interested in added safety, learn more about what is Subaru EyeSight and how it supports you on and off the trail.
Have questions or ready to get started? Contact Cascade Subaru today and let us help you make your next trip off the road your best one yet.
Disclaimer: All information is provided for general informational and entertainment purposes only. While we strive for accuracy, we cannot guarantee that all content is complete, current, or error-free. Any reliance you place on such information is strictly at your own risk. This article may include opinions and is not endorsed by, or officially affiliated with, any vehicle manufacturer or brand. Always consult official sources – such as the vehicle’s owner’s manual, authorized dealerships, or certified professionals – for the most up-to-date and personalized information.
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