When Subaru unveiled the new 2025 Forester in late 2023, it did not show off the more rugged Wilderness version. Even when the new Forester arrived, it was sold alongside the old Forester Wilderness model, but now that’s changed. Subaru has unveiled the 2026 Forester Wilderness, which will arrive this fall.
The 2026 Forester Wilderness is even more rugged and capable than the last generation. It now has 9.3-inches of ground clearance, up from 9.2-inches on the 2025 version. It also gets all-terrain tires, an upgraded suspension, and better cooling.
Under the hood the Forester Wilderness is powered by a 2.5-liter boxer four-cylinder engine with 180 horsepower and 178 pound-feet of torque, that’s mated to a CVT and a revised all-wheel drive system. The power is sent to the ground via 17-inch wheels that are wrapped in all-terrain Yokohama Geolandar tires. The uprated transmission cooler helps the Forester Wilderness tow up to 3,500 pounds.
Lastly the Forester Wilderness has improved approach, departure, and breakover angles. The approach angle has been extended to 23.5 degrees compared to 19 degrees; ramp breakover improves up to 21 degrees compared to 19.6 degrees; and the departure angle edges up to 25.5 degrees compared to 24.6 degrees.
On the outside the Forester Wilderness is ready for an adventure with its standard roof rails with an 800-pound static load capacity rating (176 pounds dynamic), underbody protection, and anodized copper-finish exterior accents. Inside there are water-resistant seats and anodized copper-finish interior accents.
