Much like with GMC and its flagship Denali line, the Wilderness collection of Subaru vehicles is developing into its own dedicated sub-brand. While the name hasn’t been around nearly as long, it’s already carved out a niche for buyers who want greater trail capability without jumping into a more dedicated off roader like the Jeep Wrangler. For the 2026 model year, Subaru is launching the second-generation Forester Wilderness with a fresh look and meaningful hardware upgrades. We took to the roads and not-roads around Portland, Oregon, and southwest Washington state to get a feel for these updates.
2026 Subaru Forester Wilderness
Design and Styling
The 2026 Subaru Forester Wilderness gets the same fundamental enhancements as the sixth-generation Forester, which debuted for the previous model year. We said of the 2025 Touring Hybrid in our review, “In the best possible way, the 2025 Forester feels familiar to us. While there was nothing wrong with the old Forester, we appreciate the updated interior and overall quieter cabin.” Based on our preview drive, we’re happy to report that these sentiments carry forward to the updated Wilderness model.
Styling wise, this Forester grade sports a unique front fascia with a hexagonal front grille and hexagonal LED fog lights. A matte black hood decal is designed to block direct sunlight from causing glare when driving on a trail. The wheels are also matte black, 17 inches in diameter, and are mounted to all-terrain tires. New for 2026 is a full-size spare, which could prove to be a lifesaver for the adventurous. The standard roof rails support 800 pounds of static load. The cabin gains water-resistant seat and door upholstery made of Subaru’s StarTex leatherette and trimmed with copper-colored stitching.
Engines
Hardware-wise, the Wilderness does not offer a gas/electric hybrid drivetrain. Instead, it employs the same 2.5-liter horizontally opposed 4-cylinder engine found in conventional Forester models. Output is unchanged at 180 horsepower and 178 pound-feet of torque. Subaru tuned the Wilderness’ standard continuously variable automatic transmission to offer improved low-speed response.
Wilderness Hardware
Combined with protective underbody skid plates, exceptional suspension articulation, and 9.3 inches of ground clearance, the 2026 Forester Wilderness was an absolute champ in the off-road portion of our preview drive. Thanks to its standard all-wheel drive (AWD) with dedicated X-MODE system, it had no problems making steep climbs; negotiating rocky terrain; or fording shallow water. When engaging one of the low-speed X-MODE programs, a front-mounted camera automatically turns on (an action that can be disabled if desired) to give the driver a clearer view of any potential obstacles. Among mainstream compact SUVs with off-road trim packages, we would argue only the Ford Bronco Sport Badlands comes close to the Forester Wilderness’ level of off-road capability.
A Demon Off-Road, an Angel On-Road
Where the Forester really impressed was that its trail-running prowess did not compromise its on-road performance. Despite its chunky all-terrain tires and rugged suspension, the ride was remarkably composed and quiet. Rough city streets did not upset the Wilderness’ balance. Steering feel is probably a bit less precise than a standard Forester, but most owners will be unlikely to notice a difference. Road and wind noise are non-issues. Thin front roof pillars aid with outstanding forward visibility.
Front and rear seating is very comfortable with plentiful headroom and legroom all around. Our test vehicle came with the only available option package. For $2,200, you get a Harman Kardon audio system; GPS navigation that doesn’t rely on a connected smartphone; power rear liftgate; and a digital instrument cluster. The virtual gauges can be customized like those of most rivals.
Connectivity
Infotainment duties are handled by a portrait-oriented touchscreen display. Information is arranged logically, but like other Subarus, the system can suffer from heavily delayed responses to user inputs. Our other major interior gripe is that no heated steering wheel is available. It’s even more baffling when you consider this feature is available on Subaru’s other Wilderness models: the Outback and Crosstrek. Perhaps the company will rectify this later in the model year or for 2027 at the latest.
Prices and Availability
The 2026 Subaru Forester Wilderness has a base price of $39,835, including $1,450 destination fee. Aside from the previously mentioned option package, the only other factory extra is $395 for specific paint colors. For 2026, production of all Forester models, including the Wilderness, moves to Subaru’s facility in Lafayette, Indiana, from its previous home in Japan. Retail availability is expected later this fall.
CG Says:
We’re impressed with the 2026 Subaru Forester Wilderness’ design and balance of off-road capability with on-road performance. Interior comfort and visibility are strong points, but the infotainment system’s laggy behavior is a negative. Further, the lack of a heated steering wheel is a puzzling omission given that this welcome convenience feature is available on other Wilderness models. Check back soon for our detailed road test.
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2025 Subaru Forester Wilderness Pictures
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