Subaru of America, Inc. today introduced the next generation of its rugged and adventure-ready SUV: the 2026 Subaru Forester Wilderness. Designed for drivers who seek capability beyond the pavement, the latest addition to the Subaru Wilderness lineup boasts enhanced ground clearance, a more refined and technologically advanced interior, and significant improvements in both on- and off-road driving dynamics. The 2026 Forester Wilderness, the most capable iteration of the model to date, is set to arrive at Subaru retailers across the country in the fall of 2025.
Built to conquer demanding terrain, the new Forester Wilderness rides higher than its predecessor, now offering 9.3 inches of ground clearance—an increase that further solidifies its status as a trail-ready SUV. This heightened stance is paired with a robust suspension system, all-terrain tires, and a suite of mechanical upgrades that bolster stability, traction, and control in challenging environments.
Power, Performance, and Capability
Under the hood, the 2026 Subaru Forester Wilderness is powered by a revised 2.5-liter SUBARU BOXER® engine, delivering 180 horsepower and 178 pound-feet of torque, with enhanced responsiveness at lower RPMs for better drivability in rugged conditions. The vehicle’s Lineartronic® Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) has been re-engineered with a shorter final drive ratio to improve low-speed control when navigating steep inclines or uneven terrain.
A hallmark of Subaru’s off-road prowess, the Forester Wilderness comes standard with the X-MODE® Dual Mode system, featuring specialized settings for Snow/Dirt and Deep Snow/Mud. This system, combined with an improved Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive setup, ensures superior grip, faster center differential lock-up, and reduced wheel spin, optimizing performance on loose or slippery surfaces.
Riding on Wilderness-exclusive 17-inch anthracite-finish wheels wrapped in Yokohama Geolandar® all-terrain tires, the Forester Wilderness offers superior traction on everything from gravel roads to muddy trails. Subaru has also introduced an upgraded transmission cooler, allowing the SUV to tow up to 3,500 pounds—making it an appealing choice for adventurers who haul gear, campers, or small trailers. A rear differential temperature sensor further enhances the vehicle’s durability in demanding conditions.
To accommodate the toughest landscapes, the Forester Wilderness features improved approach, departure, and breakover angles compared to other models in the Forester lineup. The approach angle now extends to 23.5 degrees (up from 19 degrees), the breakover angle increases to 21 degrees (compared to 19.6 degrees), and the departure angle reaches 25.5 degrees (up from 24.6 degrees).
A Rugged Exterior with Thoughtful Refinements
In keeping with its adventurous identity, the Forester Wilderness receives a suite of exclusive exterior design elements that highlight its capability. The SUV features a more aggressive stance, accented by Wilderness-specific styling, including LED hexagonal fog lights, expanded anodized copper-finish exterior accents, and underbody protection for added durability. Standard roof rails, rated for an 800-pound static load and a 176-pound dynamic load, allow drivers to mount rooftop tents or additional cargo with confidence.
Inside, Subaru has designed the Forester Wilderness with a balance of rugged practicality and modern comfort. The cabin is fitted with StarTex® water-resistant upholstery—an animal-free material that is both durable and easy to clean—along with Wilderness-exclusive anodized copper-finish interior trim. For the first time in the Forester Wilderness trim, a 12.3-inch fully digital gauge cluster is available, offering customizable displays and exclusive graphics.
Technology and Safety at the Forefront
The 2026 Forester Wilderness is equipped with the latest version of Subaru’s award-winning EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology, enhancing safety and driver confidence. The system includes adaptive cruise control, pre-collision braking, lane departure prevention, and other advanced safety features designed to support drivers in a wide range of conditions.
At the heart of the SUV’s technology suite is Subaru’s 11.6-inch Multimedia Plus system, which serves as both an infotainment hub and a central control interface. The high-resolution touchscreen integrates wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, offering a seamless smartphone experience with full-screen display capabilities. Other standard features include Bluetooth® hands-free connectivity, AM/FM stereo, SiriusXM® All-Access Radio (with a four-month Platinum Plan trial), HD Radio®, and over-the-air software updates.
Passengers will find a spacious and practical cabin, with 60/40-split folding rear seats that provide up to 69.1 cubic feet of cargo space. With the rear seats upright, the Forester Wilderness comfortably accommodates five passengers, offering 39.4 inches of rear seat legroom—ensuring ample comfort for long road trips or weekend getaways.
Engineering Enhancements for a Smoother Ride
The 2026 Forester Wilderness is underpinned by Subaru’s Global Platform, which has been refined with increased structural rigidity. Engineers have improved torsional rigidity by 10%, incorporating advanced welding techniques and a significant expansion of structural adhesive—from approximately 26.2 feet to 88.5 feet—resulting in a more rigid chassis. These updates translate to a smoother ride, improved handling, and a quieter cabin experience, even when traversing rough terrain.
Pricing and detailed specifications for the 2026 Subaru Forester Wilderness will be released closer to its market debut in fall 2025. However, with its upgraded powertrain, off-road capability, and refined technology, the latest iteration of the Forester Wilderness is poised to set a new benchmark for adventure-ready SUVs in its class.