Subaru’s in style compact SUV sharpens its off-road edge.
Very similar to with GMC and its flagship Denali line, the Wilderness assortment of Subaru autos is creating into its personal devoted sub-brand. Whereas the title hasn’t been round practically as lengthy, it’s already carved out a distinct segment for patrons who need larger path functionality with out leaping right into a extra devoted off roader just like the Jeep Wrangler. For the 2026 mannequin 12 months, Subaru is launching the second-generation Forester Wilderness with a recent look and significant {hardware} upgrades. We took to the roads and not-roads round Portland, Oregon, and southwest Washington state to get a really feel for these updates.
2026 Subaru Forester Wilderness
Design and Styling
The 2026 Subaru Forester Wilderness will get the identical basic enhancements because the sixth-generation Forester, which debuted for the earlier mannequin 12 months. We mentioned of the 2025 Touring Hybrid in our assessment, “In the very best means, the 2025 Forester feels acquainted to us. Whereas there was nothing fallacious with the outdated Forester, we admire the up to date inside and total quieter cabin.” Based mostly on our preview drive, we’re comfortable to report that these sentiments carry ahead to the up to date Wilderness mannequin.
Styling sensible, this Forester grade sports activities a singular entrance fascia with a hexagonal entrance grille and hexagonal LED fog lights. A matte black hood decal is designed to dam direct daylight from inflicting glare when driving on a path. The wheels are additionally matte black, 17 inches in diameter, and are mounted to all-terrain tires. New for 2026 is a full-size spare, which might show to be a lifesaver for the adventurous. The usual roof rails assist 800 kilos of static load. The cabin good points water resistant seat and door upholstery fabricated from Subaru’s StarTex leatherette and trimmed with copper-colored stitching.
Engines
{Hardware}-wise, the Wilderness doesn’t provide a fuel/electrical hybrid drivetrain. As an alternative, it employs the identical 2.5-liter horizontally opposed 4-cylinder engine present in typical Forester fashions. Output is unchanged at 180 horsepower and 178 pound-feet of torque. Subaru tuned the Wilderness’ customary repeatedly variable computerized transmission to supply improved low-speed response.
Wilderness {Hardware}
Mixed with protecting underbody skid plates, distinctive suspension articulation, and 9.3 inches of floor clearance, the 2026 Forester Wilderness was an absolute champ within the off-road portion of our preview drive. Because of its customary all-wheel drive (AWD) with devoted X-MODE system, it had no issues making steep climbs; negotiating rocky terrain; or fording shallow water. When participating one of many low-speed X-MODE packages, a front-mounted digital camera mechanically activates (an motion that may be disabled if desired) to offer the motive force a clearer view of any potential obstacles. Amongst mainstream compact SUVs with off-road trim packages, we’d argue solely the Ford Bronco Sport Badlands comes near the Forester Wilderness’ degree of off-road functionality.
A Demon Off-Street, an Angel On-Street
The place the Forester actually impressed was that its trail-running prowess didn’t compromise its on-road efficiency. Regardless of its chunky all-terrain tires and rugged suspension, the journey was remarkably composed and quiet. Tough metropolis streets didn’t upset the Wilderness’ steadiness. Steering really feel might be a bit much less exact than a normal Forester, however most house owners can be unlikely to note a distinction. Street and wind noise are non-issues. Skinny entrance roof pillars help with excellent ahead visibility.
Entrance and rear seating could be very snug with plentiful headroom and legroom throughout. Our check car got here with the one out there possibility package deal. For $2,200, you get a Harman Kardon audio system; GPS navigation that doesn’t depend on a linked smartphone; energy rear liftgate; and a digital instrument cluster. The digital gauges will be personalized like these of most rivals.
Connectivity
Infotainment duties are dealt with by a portrait-oriented touchscreen show. Data is organized logically, however like different Subarus, the system can undergo from closely delayed responses to consumer inputs. Our different main inside gripe is that no heated steering wheel is offered. It’s much more baffling when you think about this function is offered on Subaru’s different Wilderness fashions: the Outback and Crosstrek. Maybe the corporate will rectify this later within the mannequin 12 months or for 2027 on the newest.
Costs and Availability
The 2026 Subaru Forester Wilderness has a base value of $39,835, together with $1,450 vacation spot payment. Other than the beforehand talked about possibility package deal, the one different manufacturing unit additional is $395 for particular paint colours. For 2026, manufacturing of all Forester fashions, together with the Wilderness, strikes to Subaru’s facility in Lafayette, Indiana, from its earlier house in Japan. Retail availability is predicted later this fall.
CG Says:
We’re impressed with the 2026 Subaru Forester Wilderness’ design and steadiness of off-road functionality with on-road efficiency. Inside consolation and visibility are robust factors, however the infotainment system’s laggy conduct is a adverse. Additional, the dearth of a heated steering wheel is a puzzling omission provided that this welcome comfort function is offered on different Wilderness fashions. Test again quickly for our detailed highway check.
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