The Subaru Forester underwent a redesign for the 2025 model year, but the rugged Forester Wilderness was notably absent from the range.
This changed on Thursday at the 2025 Chicago Auto Show, where Subaru unveiled the Wilderness version of the sixth-generation Forester, which will hit dealerships in the fall as a 2026 model. While specific pricing details will be shared closer to its release, the previous model, still offered for 2025, starts at $36,415, which includes a destination charge of $1,420.
2026 Subaru Forester Wilderness
2026 Forester Wilderness is designed for outdoor enthusiasts. It features longer coil springs and shock absorbers compared to the standard Forester, increasing the ground clearance to 9.3 inches from the standard 8.7 inches. Its off-road prowess is further enhanced with improved approach, departure, and breakover angles now at 23.5, 21, and 25.5 degrees, respectively. The SUV is equipped with 17-inch wheels fitted with Yokohama Geolandar all-terrain tires, which enhance traction on challenging surfaces.
To bolster handling and ride comfort, Subaru has enhanced overall torsional rigidity by about 10% using stronger welds and additional structural adhesive. The manufacturer asserts that these improvements not only boost dynamic performance but also result in a quieter and smoother driving experience.
The powertrain remains the Forester’s standard 2.5-liter flat-4, delivering 180 hp and working in conjunction with a CVT and symmetrical all-wheel-drive system. Subaru notes an increased towing capacity of 3,500 pounds, up from 3,000 pounds, aided by an upgraded transmission cooler. Additionally, the rear differential features a temperature sensor, and the drive mode selector includes specific settings for snow and mud handling.
Distinctive features that set the 2026 Forester Wilderness apart from the standard version include standard roof rails with an impressive static load capacity of 800 pounds (176 pounds dynamic), unique hexagonal fog lights, underbody protection, and distinctive copper-colored accents both inside and out. A model-specific graphical display is also available on the 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster.
Additionally, Subaru utilized the Chicago Auto Show to introduce a new Forester Hybrid model, set to launch this spring as a 2025 offering. The starting price will be $36,415, inclusive of a $1,420 destination fee.
The 2025 Forester Hybrid is equipped with a next-gen hybrid powertrain that integrates a 2.5-liter flat-4 engine employing the Atkinson cycle and utilizes Toyota’s planetary-gear hybrid system, specifically calibrated for Subaru and bolstered by a more powerful traction motor. The combined peak power output is 194 hp, with all-wheel drive powered through Subaru’s symmetrical system.
Subaru anticipates that owners will experience a 40% improvement in fuel efficiency based on the EPA city cycle and up to 25% better fuel economy on the combined cycle compared to the conventional Forester, rating it at 35 mpg combined. While the peak power output isn’t significantly higher than that of the standard Forester, Subaru indicates that the hybrid’s enhanced torque delivery benefits acceleration, particularly at highway speeds, improving passing times by 10-15%, the company claims.
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