An electric motor doesn't solve all of the bland Subaru Forester's problems, but it does make the model more powerful (by 14 ponies) and efficient (by several miles per gallon) and thus a stronger ...

HIGHS Smooth and strong hybrid powertrain, real off-road chops, sumptuous interior. LOWS Fuel economy is only slightly better than the nonhybrid's, wallows through turns, third row is too snug.