5 Minutes
2026 Subaru Forester pricing and updates
The sixth-generation Subaru Forester moves into the 2026 model year with mostly modest price increases across the range, while the off-road-focused Wilderness trim jumps by a little more than $2,000 versus its previous version. Redesigned for 2025, the Forester carries over many improvements, but 2026 brings the Wilderness into line with the new family design language and feature set.
Pricing and trim lineup
Base value and standard equipment
Subaru lists the entry-level Forester at $29,995 (excluding destination), making it a competitive compact SUV in value terms. Standard equipment is generous: 17-inch machine-finish alloy wheels, steering-responsive LED headlights, roof rails, dual-zone automatic climate control, and an advanced adaptive cruise control system with lane-centering. Infotainment is handled by dual 7.0-inch touchscreens, and the audio and connectivity package includes SiriusXM, SiriusXM Travel Link and HD Radio.
Mid and top trims
The Wilderness starts at $38,385 before the $1,450 destination charge, slotting it between the Sport and Limited grades. At the top of the range, the Forester Touring begins at $41,595 (before destination) and adds the most premium touches, including 19-inch alloy wheels and more leather and comfort features.
Wilderness: Off-road upgrades explained
The Wilderness trim gets distinct mechanical and hardware updates tailored for light off-roading. Ground clearance is marginally increased to 9.3 inches (up from 9.2), and the Wilderness wears wider all-terrain tires: 235/60R17 instead of the 225/60R17 rubber seen on other trims. It also features a shorter final drive, trim-specific tuning for Subaru's Symmetrical AWD system and an upgraded transmission cooler. Note that the Wilderness configuration is not offered with the new hybrid powertrain.
Chassis and structural improvements
All 2025 and newer Forester models benefit from roughly 10% more torsional rigidity compared with the prior generation. Subaru achieved this through stronger welds and additional structural adhesive, improving body stiffness for sharper handling and ride control across the range.
Available option packages and technology
A $2,200 option package for the Wilderness brings a significant equipment uplift: a Harman Kardon premium sound system with 11 speakers and a 576-watt equivalent amplifier, an 11.6-inch center touchscreen with built-in satellite navigation, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a power liftgate. Considering the content, this package offers strong value for buyers who want advanced infotainment and premium audio.
Interior, comfort and safety
The Touring trim adds two-position memory for the driver’s seat and mirrors, heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear outboard seats, perforated leather upholstery available in Black or Saddle Brown, and a smart rearview mirror. Touring also comes standard with DriverFocus, a camera-based driver-monitoring system that detects signs of distraction or fatigue — a useful safety layer for long drives.
Performance and powertrain notes
While Subaru retained the familiar platform, the Forester continues to emphasize reliable all-wheel-drive capability and everyday drivability rather than outright sport performance. The Wilderness’ mechanical tweaks are focused on torque delivery, heat management and traction for off-pavement use. Buyers looking for hybrid economy should note the Wilderness specification is not available with the Forester hybrid.
Market positioning and buyer advice
The 2026 Forester remains a practical and versatile compact SUV: the base model is positioned as a value-packed daily driver, the Wilderness targets buyers who want light off-road capability without stepping up to a larger SUV, and the Touring aims at buyers seeking near-luxury comfort and technology. For shoppers prioritizing audio and navigation upgrades, the Wilderness option package is compelling; for families wanting premium comfort and driver-assist systems, the Touring makes sense.
Quick specs summary
- Starting price (Base): $29,995 (excl. destination)
- Wilderness starting price: $38,385 (excl. destination)
- Touring starting price: $41,595 (excl. destination)
- Wilderness ground clearance: 9.3 in vs 9.2 in standard
- Wilderness tire size: 235/60R17 (vs 225/60R17)
- Notable tech: 11.6-inch touchscreen (optional), 12.3-inch digital cluster, Harman Kardon audio, DriverFocus
Whether you prioritize off-road readiness, everyday practicality or premium amenities, the 2026 Subaru Forester lineup offers clear choices across price points, with the Wilderness bringing the most focused capability for outdoor-oriented buyers.
Comments