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The 2026 Subaru Forester Wilderness is an eagerly anticipated family SUV. The Wilderness trim has joined the lineup again this year and receives a refresh with some new features. In this Subaru Forester Wilderness review, our team at Great Falls Subaru explores what you can expect from the new model year.
2026 Subaru Forester Wilderness Release Date Insights: Fall 2025 Launch Details
The 2026 Subaru Forester Wilderness will officially be available at dealers nationwide in the fall of 2025, according to Subaru of America. This new generation promises to combine Subaru's legendary off-road capability with updated styling and new and improved features.
The buzz for this new SUV is justified. The all-new Forester Wilderness is set to debut with a bolder, more rugged aesthetic and a platform that's taller, wider, and more capable than ever before. Subaru's focused effort on the Wilderness line has consistently attracted outdoor-oriented drivers and expanded the brand's reputation for durability and adventure.
Performance and Off-Road Capabilities
The 2026 Forester Wilderness' engine is a 2.5-liter SUBARU BOXER, capable of 180 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque. It pairs with a continuously variable transmission and Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. Subaru has increased the new Forester Wilderness' ground clearance to 9.3 inches compared to 8.7 inches on the other trims. With longer coil springs, retuned shock absorbers for stability, and a revised final-drive ratio, the 2026 model handles both rock-crawling and highway cruising with composure.
The Wilderness-exclusive 17-inch matte-black off-road wheels are wrapped in Yokohama GEOLANDAR all-terrain tires for superior grip and clearance. Subaru has extended the approach and departure angles to 23.5 degrees and 25.5 degrees, respectively. The advanced dual-function X-MODE system offers dedicated drive modes for Snow/Dirt and Deep Snow/Mud, so you can adapt your traction settings depending on the road surface and weather you encounter in Great Falls, Montana.
Design and Aesthetic Enhancements
The 2026 Subaru Forester Wilderness upgrades include restyled protective lower cladding, a bolder grille, LED hexagonal fog lights, and copper-accented front and rear tow hooks. The anti-glare hood decal, signature Wilderness badging, and upgraded roof rails (now supporting an 800-pound static load or a rooftop tent) further set it apart.
Inside the spacious cabin, you can expect a bunch of features that make the 2026 Forester Wilderness interior both utilitarian and connected. This includes water-repellent StarTex upholstery, soft touch materials, copper interior accents, and Wilderness-specific graphics in a cabin designed for real-world adventure. A panoramic sunroof lets in the light, while bolstered seats, a leather-wrapped gear selector, and heated and ventilated front seats add to the comfort.
Unique Wilderness Branding: Standout Features
Every Wilderness model comes with copper detailing, embossed headrests, all-weather floor mats, and exclusive dashboard graphics. These are just some of the touches that distinguish the Subaru Forester Wilderness edition and give it a purposeful, rugged feel.
Technological Advancements and Features
The 2026 Forester Wilderness features a variety of advanced technology, including a new 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster. A larger 11.6-inch touch screen, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and a wireless charging pad come standard.
Each Forester Wilderness comes with EyeSight Driver-Assist Technology, MySubaru safety and connectivity, and navigation. There's also plenty of storage space for all your off-road adventures, with up to 30 cubic feet of cargo space behind the back seats and 69.1 cubic feet with the seats folded.
Expected Price Range
The 2026 Subaru Forester Wilderness' price is still pending, but industry experts expect it to be around $39,000. When looking at pricing and value, it's important to consider the warranty too. Subaru offers basic warranty coverage. A limited warranty lasts for three years or 36,000 miles, and the powertrain warranty lasts for five years or 60,000 miles. There's no complimentary scheduled maintenance included.
Forester Wilderness FAQ
Here are some FAQ about the all-new Subaru Forester Wilderness trim:
What Is the Fuel Economy for the Forester Wilderness?
The 2025 Subaru Forester Wilderness has an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 25 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway.
What Is the Towing Capacity for the New Forester Wilderness?
The new Subaru Forester Wilderness trim has a towing capacity of up to 3,000 pounds. This is double the towing capacity of the other Forester trims, which can only tow up to 1,500 pounds.
What Is the Frame Construction of the New Wilderness Trim?
The 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness has an improved inner frame construction with a focus on more ground clearance and off-road capability. Key elements include a stronger body structure, a reinforced suspension, and increased approach, departure, and ramp breakover angles.
Can I Preorder the 2026 Subaru Forester Wilderness?
Yes, you can preorder the Forester Wilderness from Great Falls Subaru beginning summer 2025.
What Tires Does the Forester Wilderness Come With?
The Subaru is equipped with 17-inch wheels with Yokohama GEOLANDAR all-terrain tires.
What Are the Expected Color Options on the 2026 Subaru Forester Wilderness
Subaru has yet to release the exact colors for the 2026 Subaru Forester Wilderness, but we can expect the standard to include Crystal White Pearl.
Test Drive the 2026 Subaru Forester Wilderness
The 2026 Subaru Forester Wilderness is an exciting new adventure SUV. Preorders open in summer 2025 at Subaru retailers nationwide, including Great Falls Subaru. Want to be one of the first to test drive this new model when it lands in fall 2025? Visit Great Falls Subaru to stay up to date. Contact us today to find out more or to preorder your very own Wilderness trim with your favorite colors, wheel packages, and accessories.
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