2026 Subaru Forester Wilderness: We're excited for the Autumn

Subaru updated its Forester last summer. The model is getting a fresh start in 2025, but for this first year in its new guise, one version was missing from the catalog, a variant that has been popular since its debut in the lineup.

We're talking, of course, about the Wilderness. It will indeed be back for 2026, and it's scheduled to debut this fall.

Saying we're excited is an obvious step. To get us started, let's take a look at what this model will offer with the new generation.

More robust and more capable

Subaru is promising an even more robust and more capable 2026 Forester Wilderness. Designed to tackle the toughest terrain while offering impressive refinement, this model promises to appeal to anyone who enjoys venturing off the beaten track.

And what's interesting is that this version will offer technical improvements.

Enhanced off-road performance

The 2026 Forester Wilderness will stand out with superior off-road capabilities over its predecessor. Improvements include:

Ground clearance increased to 9.3 inches (compared to 9.2 inches previously). This is the highest in its class.

A reworked suspension and Yokohama Geolandar all-terrain tires for optimal grip.

A Lineartronic CVT transmission with a shorter gear ratio, ideal for low-speed off-road driving.

The improved two-stage X-Mode drive system with specific settings for snow/dirt and mud/deep snow.

Subaru's revised symmetrical full-time all-wheel drive will lock the differential more quickly to limit wheel slip.

The approach (23.5°), breakover (21°), and departure (25.5°) angles have also been improved to overcome obstacles and uneven terrain with greater ease.

Finally, the towing capacity is increased to 1,590 kg, and a rear differential temperature sensor enhances the model's capabilities.

The model uses the same engine as the regular versions: a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder Boxer engine delivering 180 horsepower and 178 pound-feet of torque.

Appearance

Of course, aesthetically, the 2026 Subaru Forester Wilderness will continue to stand out.

It will feature copper accents (bumpers, underbody guards), reinforced roof rails (static load up to 363 kg), hexagonal LED fog lights, and 17-inch anthracite wheels.

Inside, Subaru features StarTex fabric, which is water-resistant and easy to clean, as well as exclusive copper accents.

And for the first time, a 12.3-inch screen with Wilderness animation is available as an option. It joins the 11.6-inch screen of the multimedia system, which still offers compatibility with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto apps.

It's all mouthwatering.

The 2026 Subaru Forester Wilderness will arrive in dealerships in the fall of 2025. With its unique technical features, adventurous design, and capabilities, it confirms Subaru's position as the benchmark in the world of SUVs capable of truly venturing off-road, without compromising on comfort.