2026 Subaru Forester Wilderness
Subaru’s Forester has long been a favorite for those seeking a practical and reliable compact SUV, and the Wilderness trim takes that appeal off the beaten path.
For 2026, the Subaru Forester Wilderness doubles down on its adventurous spirit, offering a compelling blend of everyday usability and genuine off-road capability.
We’ve put the latest Forester Wilderness through its paces to see if it truly lives up to the hype as the go-to choice for outdoor enthusiasts.
Built for the Wild, Styled for the Street
The 2026 Forester Wilderness immediately announces its intentions with a more rugged aesthetic. It’s not just about looks, though.
The higher ground clearance, now bumping up to a generous 9.2 inches, is immediately noticeable and functional.
This lift, combined with retuned suspension and all-terrain tires wrapped around unique 17-inch alloy wheels, gives the Wilderness a purposeful stance that inspires confidence both on and off the asphalt.
Subaru’s signature StarTex® water-repellent upholstery continues to be a smart and practical choice for the Wilderness interior.
Muddy boots and wet gear are simply part of the adventure, and this durable material is ready to shrug them off.
Copper accents, a hallmark of the Wilderness trim, tastefully highlight interior elements, reminding you of the adventurous spirit within, without being garish.
Performance that Inspires Confidence
Under the hood, the 2026 Forester Wilderness retains Subaru’s dependable 2.5-liter four-cylinder boxer engine.
While not a powerhouse, it provides adequate power for daily driving and, more importantly, delivers the predictable and linear throttle response crucial for navigating tricky terrain.
The continuously variable transmission (CVT) is expertly tuned, mimicking gear shifts under heavier acceleration and offering smooth, efficient operation in everyday driving.
However, the Wilderness truly shines when you venture off-road. The dual-function X-MODE® system is specifically calibrated for this trim, offering Snow/Dirt and Deep Snow/Mud settings.
These modes intelligently manage the engine output, transmission, all-wheel-drive system, and brakes to optimize traction in slippery or loose conditions.
Hill Descent Control adds another layer of confidence on steep declines, allowing you to focus on steering while the Forester manages braking.
Off-Road Prowess: More Than Just a Badge
The Forester Wilderness isn’t just about looking tough; it’s genuinely capable. We tested it on a variety of terrains, from rutted dirt roads to rocky trails, and the Wilderness consistently impressed.
The increased ground clearance and all-terrain tires worked in harmony to clear obstacles and maintain grip where a standard SUV would struggle.
The retuned suspension provides a noticeable improvement in ride quality off-road. It soaks up bumps and undulations effectively, keeping the ride comfortable even on challenging surfaces.
While it’s not designed for extreme rock crawling, the Forester Wilderness confidently handles moderate trails and allows you to explore further off the grid than you might expect from a compact SUV.
Daily Driver Delight: Practicality Remains Key
Despite its rugged enhancements, the 2026 Forester Wilderness doesn’t sacrifice the everyday practicality that makes the standard Forester so appealing.
It remains comfortable and composed on paved roads, with predictable handling and a quiet cabin. Fuel economy remains respectable for an all-wheel-drive SUV, making it a sensible choice for daily commutes and weekend adventures alike.
The spacious interior comfortably accommodates five adults, and the rear cargo area is generous, swallowing up camping gear, sports equipment, or luggage with ease.
The standard roof rails are reinforced on the Wilderness, boasting a higher static load capacity, perfect for rooftop tents or carrying kayaks and bikes.
Technology and Safety: Modern Amenities for the Modern Explorer
Subaru’s commitment to safety is evident in the 2026 Forester Wilderness, which comes standard with the EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology suite.
This includes features like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking, providing peace of mind on every journey, whether you’re navigating city streets or remote trails.
The infotainment system is user-friendly, with a responsive touchscreen and smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™.
While some might desire a larger screen, the system is intuitive and provides all the essential functions you need, including navigation and off-road data displays in the Wilderness trim.
A Sweet Spot for Adventure and Everyday Life
The 2026 Subaru Forester Wilderness hits a sweet spot for buyers seeking a compact SUV that can genuinely handle off-road adventures without compromising daily usability.
It’s not the most powerful or luxurious SUV in its class, but it offers a unique blend of rugged capability, practicality, and Subaru’s renowned reliability.
Pros:
- Genuine off-road capability with increased ground clearance and X-MODE®
- Rugged and functional styling
- Durable and water-repellent interior
- Spacious and practical cabin
- Standard EyeSight® safety suite
- Respectable fuel economy
Cons:
- Engine power could be more robust for some
- The infotainment screen could be larger
- Not designed for extreme rock crawling
Who is the 2026 Subaru Forester Wilderness for?
The 2026 Subaru Forester Wilderness is ideal for:
- Outdoor enthusiasts need a capable and reliable vehicle for weekend adventures.
- Families who want a practical and safe SUV with added off-road capability.
- Drivers who appreciate Subaru’s reputation for reliability and all-wheel-drive prowess.
- Anyone seeking a vehicle that blends ruggedness with everyday comfort and usability.
Release Date and Price
The 2026 Subaru Forester Wilderness is anticipated to arrive in dealerships in Fall 2025.
As of now, Subaru has not yet announced the official pricing for the 2026 Forester Wilderness. However, to give you a general idea:
- The current 2025 Subaru Forester model line ranges in price from approximately $31,090 to $43,115.
- The outgoing 2025 Subaru Forester Wilderness model has a starting price of $36,415.
It’s reasonable to expect that the 2026 Subaru Forester Wilderness will be priced slightly higher than the current Wilderness model, considering the upgrades and new generation platform. Official pricing details are expected to be released closer to the market launch in Fall 2025.
In conclusion, the 2026 Subaru Forester Wilderness is a compelling choice in the compact SUV segment. It’s a vehicle that encourages you to explore beyond the pavement, offering a refreshing dose of ruggedness and capability without sacrificing the practicality and comfort you need for daily life. If adventure is calling, the Forester Wilderness is ready to answer.
