Edmunds.com Reviews the 2026 Subaru Forester Wilderness

The 2026 Subaru Forester is more than just a practical SUV that fits you, your family, and your pets. It is also a true adventure vehicle. What if you want to add more adventure to your life? Can a Forester satisfy your wanderlust beyond the highway?

For 2026, the Wilderness model returns to the lineup, wearing the new generation body style and featuring a host of enhancements. As Edmunds.com found out, the new 2026 Forester Wilderness is – and always has been – “more than it looks.”

As they explain, “the Forester’s off-road prowess is further refined. Ground clearance is increased from 8.7 inches to 9.3 inches thanks to its revised suspension and taller all-terrain tires from Yokohama. New front and rear bumper designs reduce overhang and help reduce the chance of scrapes on tougher trails. The front bumper also has LED foglights. The Forester Wilderness’ raised roof rack has an 800-pound static load capacity, making it great for rooftop tents.”

The 2026 Forester Wilderness gets some additional upgrades. According to Edmunds.com, the transmission gets an oil cooler, and underbody protection has been added to reduce the risk of significant damage. The center-locking differential responds quicker than the one in the regular Forester to help reduce wheelspin, and towing capacity has increased from 1,500 pounds to 3,500 pounds. Inside, the Forester Wilderness gets all-weather floor mats and an animal-free interior.

All 2026 Forester Wilderness models are powered by the 2.5-liter BOXER four-cylinder engine, rated at 180 horsepower and 178 pound-feet of torque. The Lineartronic continuously variable transmission sends that power through the Symmetrical all-wheel drive system. Additionally, there is the dual-mode X-Mode, which provides enhanced traction in specific conditions, including Deep Snow and Mud. Hill Descent Control is also part of the package.

On the 2026 Forester Wilderness, a set of all-terrain tires is mounted on 17-inch alloy wheels. Edmunds.com stated that it also comes with a full-size spare tire, in case it needs to be changed in the rough. They added that “the Forester Wilderness can handle rocky roads with ease.”

While they can carve out rocky terrain, Edmunds.com added that “on city streets, the Forester Wilderness is comfortable, with slightly more compliance in the suspension than the regular Forester.”

No matter where you take the 2026 Forester Wilderness, you will find how useful it is in your everyday routine. Edmunds.com concludes that the 2026 Forester Wilderness is “a heck of a lot better to live with on a day-to-day basis.”

Are you ready for some adventures ahead? Contact us at Ewing Subaru of Plano to see the 2026 Forester Wilderness soon!