What’s New with the 2026 Subaru Forester Wilderness Edition?
Curious about what sets the 2026 Subaru Forester Wilderness apart from the rest of the lineup? Subaru’s latest iteration of its beloved crossover is more than just a facelift—it’s a statement for drivers who want a little more grit in their daily drive. The Wilderness trim, arriving at US dealerships this fall, takes the Forester’s reputation for reliability and adventure and dials it up a notch. With a starting price of $38,385, it’s not the cheapest Forester on the lot, but you’re getting a lot more than just a badge.
How Does the Wilderness Trim Stand Out in Design and Capability?
Let’s talk looks and capability, because that’s where the Wilderness really flexes. Subaru has given it a unique front fascia, a bold new grille, and beefy skid plates—details that aren’t just for show. The matte black hood decal isn’t just a style move; it’s there to cut glare when you’re off the beaten path. Special fog lights and anodized copper accents add a bit of flair, while the SUBARU-branded rear bumper and ladder-style roof rails drive home that rugged, ready-for-anything vibe.
But the real magic happens underneath. The Wilderness sits on a lifted suspension, offering 9.3 inches of ground clearance—about 0.6 inches more than the standard model. That extra height, paired with 17-inch matte black wheels wrapped in all-terrain tires, means you can tackle rougher trails with confidence. Improved approach, departure, and breakover angles (23.5, 25.5, and 21 degrees respectively) make a noticeable difference when you’re navigating rocky terrain or steep inclines.
What’s Changed Inside the Cabin?
Step inside and you’ll notice the Wilderness edition keeps things practical but adds a few touches to remind you this isn’t your average Forester. The seats are wrapped in gray StarTex material with copper contrast stitching, and the front headrests are embossed for a little extra flair. All-weather floor mats and unique trim pieces keep the interior feeling fresh and functional.
Since it’s based on the Premium trim, you get a 10-way power driver’s seat, heated front seats, a wireless smartphone charger, and an 11.6-inch infotainment system. The six-speaker audio system and moonroof are standard, but if you want to go all out, there’s a $2,200 package that adds GPS navigation, an 11-speaker Harman Kardon premium audio system, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, and a power liftgate. Not too shabby for those who want a little luxury with their mud.
How Does the 2026 Forester Stack Up on Everyday Practicality?
Beyond the Wilderness, Subaru has made some smart tweaks across the Forester lineup. The center console now features cup holders big enough for those massive 32-ounce water bottles (finally), a larger armrest, a more compact shifter, and extra storage for your phone and other essentials. These are the kinds of small changes that make a big difference on road trips or daily commutes.
Under the hood, every 2026 Forester comes with Subaru’s tried-and-true 2.5-liter four-cylinder Boxer engine, delivering 180 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque. It’s paired with a continuously variable transmission and, of course, Subaru’s symmetrical all-wheel drive system. While it’s not a powerhouse, it’s a setup known for reliability and sure-footedness in all weather conditions—a big reason why Subaru owners are so loyal.
Is the Price Hike Justified?
Let’s address the elephant in the room: the Wilderness trim is $2,100 more than before. But when you factor in the upgraded suspension, off-road hardware, and interior enhancements, it’s clear Subaru isn’t just padding the price. The base Forester still starts at $29,995, which is impressive considering how many vehicles in this segment have seen significant price jumps in recent years. The destination fee has crept up to $1,450, but that’s par for the course these days.
Here’s a quick look at the 2026 Forester pricing (including destination):
– Forester: $31,445
– Forester Premium: $34,835
– Forester Sport: $37,555
– Forester Wilderness: $39,835
– Forester Limited: $39,145
– Forester Touring: $43,045
Who Should Consider the 2026 Forester Wilderness?
If you’re the type who spends weekends exploring trails, camping, or just wants a crossover that can handle a little more than the average school run, the Wilderness is hard to beat. It’s not a hardcore rock crawler, but it’s a sweet spot for folks who want capability without sacrificing comfort or daily usability. Plus, Subaru’s reputation for safety and reliability means you’re not just buying into a look—you’re investing in peace of mind.
The big takeaway? The 2026 Subaru Forester Wilderness isn’t about perfection—it’s about smarter adjustments. Start with one change this week, and you’ll likely spot the difference by month’s end. Whether you’re eyeing the Wilderness for its off-road chops or just want a Forester that stands out from the crowd, this latest update proves Subaru knows how to keep things interesting without losing sight of what matters most to drivers.