2026 Subaru Forester Wilderness at Groove Subaru
The 2026 Subaru Forester Wilderness is purpose-built for explorers who crave untamed capability without sacrificing comfort or technology. Powered by a robust 2.5-liter SUBARU BOXER® engine producing 180 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque, this trail-conquering SUV is engineered with a re-tuned CVT and 4.11 final-drive ratio for more responsive off-road performance. Enhanced with 9.3 inches of ground clearance, standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, and dual-function X-MODE® with Snow/Dirt and Deep Snow/Mud settings, the Forester Wilderness can handle everything from forest trails to snowy mountain passes. Its rugged exterior sports redesigned headlights, matte-black 17-inch wheels, and durable lower body cladding. Inside, durable StarTex® water-repellent upholstery, copper-accented trim, and available high-res touchscreen tech offer a modern yet practical cabin experience. Whether you're headed off the beaten path or commuting through town, the 2026 Forester Wilderness brings rugged luxury to every mile.
Keep reading to unpack everything the new 2026 Subaru Forester Wilderness offers. When you’re ready for a test drive, stop by Groove Subaru in Englewood, CO. Our automotive resources are extensive, ranging from sales and finance to service and parts. You can discover new and pre-owned models online. Take time to also browse all our latest specials to unlock additional savings today! Whatever your automotive needs in the Denver area, there is something for everyone here at Groove Subaru. We are eager to meet and help all Englewood, Littleton, Louviers, and Englewood drivers find the car right for their lifestyle and budget!
Starting MSRP $39,000 (est)Subaru Forester Wilderness Highlights
- Performance: Enhanced dual-function X-MODE® with Snow/Dirt and Deep Snow/Mud settings; 3500-lb towing capacity and rugged trail-ready suspension tuning.
- Engine: 2.5-liter SUBARU BOXER® engine with 180 hp and increased 178 lb-ft torque at lower RPMs; CVT with 4.11 final-drive ratio for off-road responsiveness.
- Interior Features: StarTex® water-repellent upholstery, copper-accented trim, soft-touch materials, and available 12.3-inch digital instrument display.
- Exterior Features: Redesigned grille and headlight cluster, 17-inch matte-black alloy wheels with 235/60R-17 Yokohama GEOLANDAR® A/T tires, and new protective cladding.
- Technology: 11.6-inch STARLINK multimedia touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay®/Android Auto™, wireless charging pad, and available built-in navigation.
- Safety Features: EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology with adaptive cruise control, lane centering, and available 360-degree camera for added off-road awareness.
2025 vs 2026 Subaru Forester Wilderness
The 2026 Subaru Forester Wilderness arrives with a refreshed look and refined upgrades. It inherits the bold styling updates from the rest of the Forester lineup, including a redesigned grille and sleeker headlights. Suspension tuning has been recalibrated for improved off-road ride quality, while the ground clearance has increased from 8.7 to 9.3 inches. It also features a revised CVT with a shorter final drive for better low-speed trail control. New technology, such as the 11.6-inch touchscreen and updated interior materials, elevates comfort and connectivity.
Amenity Comparison
2026 Subaru Forester Wilderness vs the 2025 Toyota RAV4 TRD Off-Road and the 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands
Regarding adventure-ready amenities, the 2026 Subaru Forester Wilderness surpasses the 2025 Toyota RAV4 TRD Off-Road and 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands with a premium blend of rugged style and intelligent design. It features a class-leading 11.6-inch touchscreen, offering a more immersive infotainment experience than the smaller 8-inch displays in both competitors. Subaru equips the Forester Wilderness with StarTex® water-resistant upholstery, a durable and easy-to-clean material perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, alongside anodized copper-finish interior accents that add a refined, rugged touch not found in the RAV4 or Bronco Sport. It includes a 180-degree front-view monitor that enhances visibility on tight trails, a feature that gives Subaru a distinct edge in safety and functionality. With these upscale, adventure-oriented amenities, the 2026 Forester Wilderness stands out as the most thoughtfully equipped SUV for drivers who demand comfort and capability.
Performance Comparison
2026 Subaru Forester Wilderness vs the 2025 Toyota RAV4 TRD Off-Road and the 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands
When it comes to off-road-ready performance, the 2026 Subaru Forester Wilderness confidently outpaces the 2025 Toyota RAV4 TRD Off-Road and 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands with its well-balanced blend of rugged engineering and everyday drivability. The Forester Wilderness leads with an impressive 9.3 inches of ground clearance, giving it a superior ability to conquer uneven trails and rocky terrain. Unlike its competitors, it comes standard with Yokohama GEOLANDAR® A/T all-terrain tires, Dual-function X-MODE®, and Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, ensuring exceptional traction and control across mud, snow, and gravel without needing expensive upgrades. In contrast, while the RAV4 TRD Off-Road and Bronco Sport Badlands offer solid capability, they fall short in integrated off-road-specific systems and ground clearance. For adventurous drivers who demand consistent performance in unpredictable environments, the 2026 Forester Wilderness is the clear choice.
Subaru Forester Wilderness Trim Options

Forester Wilderness
Starting MSRP $39,000 (est)
- Dual-function X-MODE® with enhanced off-road settings
- 9.3 inches of ground clearance
- StarTex® water-repellent upholstery
- 11.6-inch STARLINK touchscreen
- Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™
- Upgraded all-terrain tires and 17-inch wheels
Subaru Forester Wilderness FAQs
The 2026 Subaru Forester Wilderness is expected to start at $39,000.
The 2026 Subaru Forester Wilderness has a 2.5-liter SUBARU BOXER® engine delivering 180 hp and 178 lb-ft of torque.
The 2026 Subaru Forester Wilderness provides an impressive 9.3 inches of ground clearance for better trail performance.
Yes, every 2026 Subaru Forester Wilderness includes Subaru's standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive.
It comes with dual-function X-MODE®, enhanced suspension, and all-terrain tires for rugged capability.
The Forester Wilderness can tow up to 3,500 pounds when properly equipped.
Yes, the StarTex® upholstery is both water-repellent and durable for outdoor use.
Yes, it includes wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ as standard.
Yes, EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology is included and features adaptive cruise control and lane centering.
It features upgraded off-road hardware, unique styling, more ground clearance, and exclusive interior materials.
Yes, built-in navigation is available on models equipped with the high-resolution STARLINK® touchscreen.
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