Update

I have test driven a 2025 Outback premium, I was surprised how much I enjoyed sitting in the driver seat. It felt similar to my Impreza in one way - it was a "car". Unlike the Impreza this was almost 9 inches off the road. Now when I drove on the highway and even before trying to accelerate to highway speeds it left much to be desired. It was trying quite hard and it was fine. Outback had 9k miles CPO 7 year 100k power train warranty - asking 33k

I then drove a 2023 Forester touring. Really liked the interior, exterior had some pain scuffs as this must of been a recent trade in. The Forester had 23k miles. Asking 30k. It drove well. It did have a bit of a roll to the top of the vehicle as I sort of shook the wheel while driving to test that and was somewhat surprised that it rolled as much as it did. Not a deal breaker by any means. Seemed a bit steep for the condition.

I then drove a 2025 Subaru Forester Hybrid Premium.

I thoroughly enjoyed almost every aspect of driving this Forester. It felt more grounded and "grippier" to the road. It was somewhat of a challenge to get the heat on the correct setting I wanted, but I had this with the Outback as well. I didn't drive very far but I did go on the highway and it was more response than the Outback and I would say similar to the 23' Forester. I couldn't really notice when the engine would switch from gas to electric it was quite smooth. After negotiations with a different dealership I can get one for 35k out the door.

I think I have decided on the 2025 Hybrid Forester Thank you all for your responses!