All-New 2026 Subaru Forester Wilderness: Features and Specs

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The 2026 Subaru Forester Wilderness returns as the most rugged and capable Forester yet. With 9.3 inches of ground clearance, improved suspension, and 3,500 pounds of towing capacity, it’s ready for trails and daily commutes alike. Subaru has refined both on- and off-road performance while giving the Wilderness exclusive styling upgrades inside and out.

Set to arrive at dealerships in fall 2025, the 2026 model differentiates itself from the 2025 Forester Wilderness with higher ground clearance, an upgraded transmission cooler, stronger off-road geometry, and the first-ever available 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster.

Performance Built for the Trail

• Ground Clearance: Now 9.3 inches (up from 9.2 in 2025) with longer springs and shocks for added stability and comfort.

• Suspension Upgrades: Revised tuning for better handling on rocky trails while maintaining smooth highway performance.

• Powertrain: A 2.5-liter SUBARU BOXER® engine produces 180 hp and 178 lb-ft of torque, tuned for earlier low-RPM responsiveness.

• AWD System: Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive with faster lockup and steering angle integration for confident cornering.

• 0–60 Time (est.): Around 8.5–8.8 seconds, keeping it competitive in the compact SUV class.

Advanced X-MODE® and Off-Road Tech

• Dual X-MODE® System: Snow/Dirt and Deep Snow/Mud modes paired with a shorter final drive ratio for better low-speed control.

• All-Terrain Tires: Larger Yokohama Geolandar® tires on 17-inch anthracite wheels for improved traction.

• Towing Capacity: A new uprated transmission cooler boosts capability up to 3,500 pounds.

• Angles: Approach (23.5°), breakover (21°), and departure (25.5°) — sharper than the 2025 model for clearing obstacles with ease.

Refined and Functional Exterior

The 2026 Forester Wilderness gets signature rugged styling that makes its purpose clear.

• Roof Rails: Standard, rated for 800 lbs static / 176 lbs dynamic, ideal for rooftop tents and cargo carriers.

• Exterior Accents: Expanded anodized copper-finish trim on bumpers and tow hook covers.

• Lighting & Protection: LED hexagonal fog lights, underbody protection, and Wilderness-exclusive front/rear styling.

• Colors: Classic Subaru hues like Geyser Blue, Magnetite Gray, Crystal White Pearl, and Crystal Black, accented by copper details.

Interior Comfort

• StarTex® Upholstery: Water-resistant and easy to clean, standard across the trim.

• Available 12.3-Inch Digital Gauge Cluster: Wilderness-exclusive graphics, first time offered on Forester.

• Cargo Capacity: Up to 69.1 cubic feet with seats folded, plus 39.4 inches of rear seat legroom.

• Convenience: Standard 60/40-split folding rear seats and plenty of cargo versatility for gear-heavy adventures.

Technology and Safety Enhancements

• 11.6-Inch Subaru Multimedia Plus: Tablet-style system with wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™.

• EyeSight® Driver Assist: Standard across the lineup, with features like adaptive cruise, lane centering, and emergency stop assist.

• Digital Integration: Available 12.3-inch digital cluster with Apple Maps, plus OTA updates for multimedia and navigation.

• MPG (est.): Official numbers not yet released, but expected to remain close to the 2025 model’s 25 city / 28 highway mpg.

When and Where to Get It

The 2026 Subaru Forester Wilderness is expected to arrive at Bud Clary Subaru in Longview, WA and other Subaru retailers in fall 2025. Pricing will be announced closer to launch, but early estimates suggest a starting price in the low $30,000s, with fully equipped Wilderness trims landing near $40,000–$42,000.

If you’re looking for a 2026 Subaru Forester Wilderness for sale, Bud Clary Subaru will be among the first to carry this adventure-ready SUV. Visit us when it arrives and see why it’s the most capable Forester yet.