Subaru is gearing up to release the redesigned 2026 Forester Wilderness, a more rugged version of their popular compact crossover SUV. This new model promises to offer enhanced off-road capabilities and a more adventurous driving experience compared to the standard Forester.
One of the standout features of the 2026 Forester Wilderness is its increased ground clearance, which now measures at an impressive 9.3 inches. This improvement, coupled with a retuned suspension and upgraded approach and departure angles, ensures that the Wilderness is ready to tackle rough terrain with ease. The addition of Geolander all-terrain tires further enhances the vehicle’s grip and traction in challenging off-road conditions.
The exterior of the Forester Wilderness is distinctively styled with extra body cladding, anodized copper trim, and hexagonal fog lights. The SUV rides on 17-inch wheels wrapped in Yokohama Geolander all-terrain tires, adding to its rugged appearance. Roof rails with an 800-pound static load capacity come as standard, providing additional utility for outdoor enthusiasts.
Under the hood, the Wilderness retains the same 2.5-liter flat-4 engine found in the base Forester, delivering 180 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and Subaru’s standard all-wheel drive with X-Mode, the Wilderness is well-equipped to handle a variety of driving conditions. The addition of a locking center differential and a shorter final drive ratio further enhances the vehicle’s off-road capabilities.
Inside the cabin, the Forester Wilderness features anodized copper trim to complement the exterior styling, along with synthetic leather upholstery and an 11.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system. An optional 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster with Wilderness-specific graphics is also available, adding a touch of sophistication to the interior.
Subaru has also introduced the 2025 Forester Hybrid at the Chicago auto show, showcasing their commitment to offering a diverse range of powertrain options for environmentally conscious drivers. Pricing details for the 2026 Forester Wilderness will be announced closer to its launch date this fall, giving potential buyers something to look forward to.
Overall, the 2026 Subaru Forester Wilderness is shaping up to be a capable and stylish off-road SUV that caters to adventure seekers and outdoor enthusiasts. With its enhanced features and rugged design, this new model is set to make a mark in the competitive compact SUV segment.
