Daily Car
·24/12/2025
Subaru has launched an innovative approach for the next generation Forester inviting fans to design future concepts using Artificial Intelligence (AI). This event was organized during the Subaru School Festival 2025 in Japan. Participants generated digital renderings of potential Forester models - submitting creative prompts through AI tools. The company selected ten standout submissions and the Subaru community is currently voting to determine the most popular concept.
The submitted concepts cover a wide range of design philosophies. Some models reflect the Forester's established heritage. Others are entirely unconventional. The entry called “Strength is Power” keeps a realistic vehicle form. Its design elements support Subaru's reputation for rugged utility and consumer appeal. The entry named “Jungle Caveman” opts for bold experimentation. It shows a grille adorned with wooden details and roof-mounted accessories that recall outdoor expeditions. Despite their diversity, the designs show the flexibility that AI-driven creativity provides. They also show a shift toward inviting car enthusiasts into the design process.
Compared with competitors in the compact SUV market, Subaru's crowd sourcing initiative sets the brand apart. Many rivals rely on traditional, internally driven styling updates. Subaru uses fan engagement through digital tools. This allows the company to measure consumer tastes and to explore unexpected design avenues without the cost of full scale concept vehicle development. The method aligns with broader industry trends of digitalization and personalized experiences. Other manufacturers experiment with online configurators and interactive campaigns in a similar way.
Some submissions are unorthodox - this highlights the challenges of merging creativity with feasibility. Concepts like “Black Thunder” channel high performance styling. “Sky Tree” adopts sharp angles that recall luxury competitors. Those designs are unlikely to reach production in their current form. The exercise chiefly aims to inspire innovation and to test the boundaries of brand identity.
Artificial Intelligence in automotive design refers to computer algorithms that interpret user provided prompts. The algorithms generate visual representations of vehicles. Traditional car sketches demand extensive manual skill. AI tools convert descriptions into digital artwork rapidly. Users without formal design training can take part. The process opens concept creation to a wider audience and accelerates visual brainstorming - removing the need for skilled illustrators.
The designs that AI produces do not always respect engineering constraints like safety, manufacturability or aerodynamics. They are useful during the early, idea driven phases of development. Subaru's contest shows how AI can help link consumer imagination to professional vehicle design.









