Subaru has just unveiled the all-new 2026 Forester Wilderness, a model whose return was eagerly anticipated. When the Japanese automaker introduced the new generation of its SUV for 2025, the first thing we noticed was the absence of the Wilderness version. While it is possible to get a Wilderness version for the 2025 model year, it is still based on the previous generation.
Fortunately, Subaru has made up for it by finally presenting the next-generation 2026 Subaru Forester Wilderness. Aesthetically, the brand has hit the mark with more orange accents throughout the bodywork, making the Wilderness version stand out more clearly from the rest of the lineup.
A More Modern and Elegant Interior
The cabin is more modern and stylish than ever, featuring sleek design touches and an 11.6-inch screen for the infotainment system. The Wilderness trim also offers a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster as an option.
Genuine Technical Enhancements
Unlike many so-called off-road trims, the 2026 Subaru Forester Wilderness is more than just a decorative package. This SUV benefits from upgrades like a raised suspension, increasing ground clearance to 9.3 inches. It also features specially designed off-road tires and a driving mode optimized for off-road conditions. And, of course, it retains Subaru’s legendary symmetrical all-wheel drive system.
Specifically, Subaru has chosen Yokohama Geolandar tires mounted on 17-inch wheels.
This combination of off-road features allows the SUV to achieve an approach angle of 23.5 degrees and a departure angle of 25.5 degrees.
A Proven Powertrain
As expected, the Wilderness version inherits the same engine found in other Forester trims: a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 180 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque. While this might seem modest, it’s more than sufficient. Additionally, Subaru’s SUV boasts a towing capacity of 3,500 pounds, which is well within the competitive range.
This new Wilderness edition will make the 2026 Subaru Forester the most capable version ever released. As for pricing and other details, we should learn more as the model gets closer to its market launch in fall 2025.
Jean-Sébastien Poudrier
