The Forester Hybrid was long overdue but Subaru ensured it was worth the wait. Expect more power and 40-percent improved fuel economy.

The days of being forced to live with less-than-ideal gas mileage to score the benefits of a Subaru are fading quickly, as the Japanese manufacturer is finally electrifying its most popular SUV offerings. The breadwinner of the family, the Subaru Crosstrek, came first; now, it's the Forester's turn.

Featuring a 194-hp hybrid powertrain, the first gas-electric Forester gets considerably better fuel economy than the nonhybrid.