2026 Subaru
Forester Wilderness

2026 Subaru Forester Wilderness

Subaru launched the all-new sixth-generation Forester for 2025, featuring an updated rugged exterior and a revamped cabin. Yet it held off until the 2026 model year before introducing the Wilderness edition of this popular two-row crossover. As they say, some things are worth waiting for. This most trail-ready Forester turns heads with a confident front fascia and a revised grille pattern anchored by LED headlights that turn in sync with steering input. In signature Wilderness style, protective lower cladding adds durability and a ruggedized look, while copper-finish exterior treatments and cabin accents provide distinction from the other Forester trims.

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2026 Subaru Forester Wilderness
2026 Subaru Forester Wilderness off-road driving through mud

Trim and Powertrain

The Forester Wilderness is outfitted with a 180-horsepower 2.5-liter four-cylinder boxer engine that has been retuned to deliver more peak horsepower at lower RPM for improved responsiveness. Power flows through a continuously variable transmission (CVT) with an eight-speed manual mode to Subaru’s standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system. Engineers enhanced the drivetrain with a faster center differential, a rear differential temperature sensor, and a transmission cooler to support its impressive 3,500-pound towing capacity—2,000 pounds more than the other 2026 Forester trims. The suspension has also been upgraded with longer coil springs, specially tuned shock absorbers, and increased ground clearance of 9.3 inches for greater off-road confidence and comfort. Cargo capacity measures 27.5 cubic feet behind the rear seat and expands to 69.1 cubic feet when folded flat. EPA-estimated fuel economy is 24 mpg city and 28 mpg highway. Please see our complete 2026 Subaru Forester review for information on this model’s other trims.

2026 Subaru Forester Wilderness grille and front fascia

Standard Features

The Forester Wilderness comes well equipped with a power panoramic moonroof, heated front seats, durable StarTex leatherette upholstery, a ten-way power driver’s seat, an eight-way power front passenger seat, and dual-zone automatic climate control. Exterior highlights include steering-responsive LED headlights with auto on/off functionality, hexagonal LED fog lights, and 17-inch black-matte-finish alloy wheels wrapped in all-terrain tires. Convenience features include proximity keyless entry, push-button start, a tilt-and-telescopic steering column, a 4.2-inch driver information display, four USB ports, wireless device charging, and eligibility for a hands-free power tailgate.

2026 Subaru Forester Wilderness roof rack and elevated stance

Advanced Driver Aids and Safety Technology

Subaru’s EyeSight driver-assist suite comes standard, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, lane departure and sway warning, adaptive cruise control with lane centering, and automatic emergency steering. The Forester Wilderness also adds blind-spot monitoring with lane-change assist, rear cross-traffic alert, reverse automatic braking, and automatic high beams. A 180-degree front-view monitor provides additional visibility when navigating trails or tight spaces. An array of airbags, anti-lock brakes, stability control, traction control, and a rearview monitor complete this comprehensive safety package.

2026 Subaru Forester Wilderness interior with 11.6-inch touchscreen

Infotainment and Connectivity

The Forester Wilderness features an 11.6-inch multimedia touchscreen with wireless Android Auto and wireless Apple CarPlay integration. SiriusXM satellite radio, Bluetooth connectivity, an eight-speaker audio system, and a Wi-Fi hotspot are all standard. Owners also gain access to MySubaru Connected Services for emergency assistance and remote vehicle functions. An available 11-speaker Harman Kardon premium audio system and integrated navigation elevate the in-cabin experience even further.

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