The 2026 Subaru Forester marks a significant milestone for one of the most beloved compact SUVs on the market. Building on the sixth-generation redesign that debuted recently, the 2026 model year introduces the highly anticipated Forester Hybrid and continues to refine the rugged Wilderness trim.2
Whether you are a weekend warrior looking for 9.3 inches of ground clearance or a daily commuter seeking 35 MPG, the 2026 Forester lineup offers a configuration for every lifestyle.
What’s New for the 2026 Subaru Forester?
While the 2025 model introduced the “muscular” new exterior design, 2026 is all about powertrain diversification and safety refinement.
- Hybrid Powertrain: A new series-parallel hybrid system delivering 194 horsepower.
- Assembled in the USA: For the first time, all U.S.-market Foresters are assembled in Lafayette, Indiana.
- Enhanced Safety: Updated rear seatbelt systems helped the 2026 model earn the IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK+ award.
- Wilderness Trim: The dedicated off-road trim returns with specialized suspension and a 3,500-lb towing capacity.
Performance: Gas vs. Hybrid
Subaru now offers two distinct ways to power your adventures. Both come standard with Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive.
1. The Standard 2.5L Boxer Engine
The traditional 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine remains the heart of the base, Premium, and Limited trims.7
- Horsepower: 180 hp8
- Torque: 178 lb-ft9
- Fuel Economy: Up to 33 MPG highway / 26 MPG city.10
- Transmission: Lineartronic CVT with 8-speed manual mode.11
2. The All-New 2026 Forester Hybrid
The big news is the Hybrid e-Boxer. Borrowing technology components from Toyota but retaining Subaru’s unique AWD layout, this system pairs the 2.5L engine with two electric motors.
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- Combined Output: 194 hp13
- Efficiency: Estimated at 35 MPG city / 34 MPG highway.14
- Driving Experience: The hybrid is noticeably quieter and offers more “low-end” grunt for merging into traffic.15
2026 Forester Wilderness: Built for the Trail
For those who find themselves off the beaten path, the 2026 Subaru Forester Wilderness remains the gold standard in the compact SUV segment.
| Feature | Wilderness Specs |
| Ground Clearance | 9.3 Inches |
| Tires | Yokohama GEOLANDAR® All-Terrain |
| Towing Capacity | 3,500 lbs |
| Off-Road Tech | Dual-Function X-MODE® with Deep Snow/Mud settings |
| Approach Angle | Improved for steeper inclines |
The Wilderness also features matte-black hood decals (to reduce glare), copper interior accents, and water-resistant StarTex® upholstery—perfect for those who don’t mind getting a little mud in the cabin.16
Interior Tech and Comfort
Subaru has moved away from the dual-screen setup of the past, opting for a much more modern interface.
Infotainment & Connectivity
The centerpiece of the 2026 cabin is the 11.6-inch tablet-style touchscreen (standard on all but the base trim).17
- Wireless Integration: Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ are standard.18
- Sound System: A 576-watt-equivalent Harman Kardon® system is available on Limited and Touring trims.19
- Climate Control: New hand-gesture temperature controls allow you to adjust the heat without taking your eyes off the road.
Cargo Space
Subaru understands that Forester owners carry stuff. You get up to 74.4 cubic feet of cargo room with the rear seats folded. Even with the Hybrid’s battery pack, Subaru has managed to maintain a flat load floor, ensuring you don’t lose utility for the sake of efficiency.
Safety: The IIHS Top Safety Pick+
Safety is the Subaru brand’s “North Star,” and the 2026 Forester is no exception. It recently earned the 2025 IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK+ award.20
EyeSight Driver Assist
Every 2026 model comes standard with the latest version of EyeSight, which includes:
- Advanced Adaptive Cruise Control with Lane Centering.
- Pre-Collision Braking: Now with a wide-angle mono camera to better detect cyclists and pedestrians.
- Emergency Lane Keep Assist: Can intervene if you are about to drift into a vehicle in your blind spot.
2026 Subaru Forester Pricing & Trims
The 2026 Forester starts at an accessible $29,995 MSRP.21 Here is how the lineup breaks down:
- Base ($29,995): The essentials, including EyeSight and LED Steering Responsive Headlights.22
- Premium ($33,385): Adds the 11.6-inch screen, panoramic sunroof, and 10-way power driver’s seat.
- Sport ($36,105): Features 19-inch bronze-finish wheels and sport-tuned suspension.23
- Wilderness ($38,385): The off-road specialist with 9.3″ clearance.24
- Limited ($37,695):25 Leather-trimmed upholstery and a power rear gate.
- Touring ($41,595): The luxury flagship with ventilated seats and a 360-degree camera.26
- Hybrid Models: Generally start around $36,595 (Premium Hybrid).27
Final Verdict: Is it Worth the Upgrade?
The 2026 Subaru Forester is the most complete version of the SUV to date. If you prioritize fuel economy, the new Hybrid is the clear winner. If you need a rugged companion for mountain trails, the Wilderness has no equal in this price bracket. With its improved tech and industry-leading safety ratings, the Forester remains a top pick for families and adventurers alike.
(FAQ)
1. Does the 2026 Subaru Forester Hybrid need to be plugged in?
No, the 2026 Subaru Forester Hybrid is a self-charging hybrid (HEV) and does not require a plug. It uses a series-parallel system that recharges its 1.1-kWh lithium-ion battery through regenerative braking and by using the gas engine as a generator. This system allows the Forester to travel up to 581 miles on a single tank, making it ideal for long-distance road trips where charging stations might be scarce.
2. How much can the 2026 Forester actually tow?
Most trims of the 2026 Subaru Forester, including the new Hybrid models, have a standard towing capacity of 1,500 lbs. However, if you choose the 2026 Forester Wilderness, the towing capacity is upgraded to 3,500 lbs. This increase is made possible by an uprated transmission oil cooler and a shorter final-drive ratio, allowing it to handle small campers or utility trailers with ease.
3. What makes the 2026 Forester safer than the previous model?
While the Forester has a long history of safety awards, the 2026 model introduces specific hardware upgrades to secure its IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK+ rating. Subaru redesigned the rear seatbelt systems and added a third wide-angle mono camera to the EyeSight® suite. This new camera allows the vehicle to detect cyclists and pedestrians at intersections much faster than the dual-camera system used in older models.
