Subaru of America has announced pricing for its redesigned 2026 Forester SUV, marking the continuation of the Japanese automaker’s push into the competitive compact SUV segment. The sixth-generation Forester, which made its debut last year, will arrive at dealerships this fall with six trim levels and a starting price of $29,995.
The most significant addition to the Forester lineup is the new Wilderness variant, priced at $38,385. This rugged edition represents Subaru’s latest effort to differentiate itself in an increasingly crowded market by appealing to adventure-seeking consumers who prioritize off-road capability over urban refinement.
A Focus on Off-Road Capability
The Wilderness model showcases Subaru’s commitment to its outdoorsy brand identity. With 9.3 inches of ground clearance—significantly more than the standard Forester’s already impressive 8.7 inches—the Wilderness variant offers what the company calls “true off-road capabilities.” This enhancement comes through key mechanical upgrades, including wider 235mm all-terrain tires, a revised continuously variable transmission with a shorter final drive ratio for better low-speed crawling, and improved approach, departure, and breakover angles.
The approach angle has been extended to 23.5 degrees compared to 19 degrees on standard models, while the departure angle reaches 25.5 degrees, up from 24.6 degrees. These improvements, while seemingly modest on paper, can make the difference between clearing an obstacle and scraping expensive underbody components.
Visually, the Wilderness distinguishes itself with a hexagonal front grille, matching LED fog lights, and anodized copper accents that communicate its enhanced capability. The interior features water-resistant StarTex seating surfaces with copper stitching and all-weather floor mats—practical touches for owners who actually intend to venture off paved roads.
2026 Subaru Forester Pricing Structure
| Trim Level | Base MSRP | With Destination* | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Base | $29,995 | $31,445 | Standard AWD, EyeSight, dual 7″ screens |
| Premium | $33,385 | $34,835 | 11.6″ touchscreen, moonroof, heated seats |
| Premium (w/options) | $34,585 | $36,035 | Adds blind-spot detection, power liftgate |
| Sport | $36,105 | $37,555 | 19″ wheels, dual X-Mode, sport suspension |
| Sport (w/options) | $37,805 | $39,255 | Harman Kardon audio, additional safety tech |
| Limited | $37,695 | $39,145 | Leather seats, 8-way power passenger seat |
| Limited (w/options) | $39,295 | $40,745 | Navigation, Harman Kardon, enhanced safety |
| Wilderness | $38,385 | $39,835 | 9.3″ clearance, all-terrain tires, rugged styling |
| Wilderness (w/options) | $40,585 | $42,035 | Navigation, digital cluster, premium audio |
| Touring | $41,595 | $43,045 | Top trim with surround-view monitor, ventilated seats |
*Destination and delivery charge of $1,450 (varies by region)
Enhanced Safety Technology
Across all trim levels, the 2026 Forester comes standard with the latest generation of Subaru’s EyeSight driver assistance technology. The updated system features a wider field of view, improved control software, and an electric brake booster that enables smoother operation and quicker response times. Subaru’s safety features are proven to help drivers.
The enhanced EyeSight can now identify cyclists and pedestrians at intersections more effectively, providing earlier warnings and automatic emergency braking when necessary. Higher trim levels add features like Blind-Spot Detection with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, Automatic Emergency Steering, and Emergency Lane Keep Assist.
Perhaps most notably, the system includes Emergency Stop Assist with Safe Lane Selection, which can bring the vehicle to a complete stop if it detects an unresponsive driver while adaptive cruise control is active. The system then activates hazard lights, unlocks the doors, and can contact emergency services through Subaru’s connected services platform.
A Rear Seat Reminder feature, standard across all models, addresses the tragic issue of children or pets being left in vehicles by alerting drivers to check the rear seat.
Mechanical Improvements
Under the hood, all 2026 Foresters are powered by a revised 2.5-liter horizontally opposed four-cylinder engine producing 180 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque. While these figures are modest by today’s standards, Subaru has adjusted the torque curve to deliver peak twist at lower RPMs for improved responsiveness.
The engine is paired exclusively with Subaru’s Lineartronic continuously variable transmission, a choice that prioritizes fuel economy over driving engagement. The Wilderness model receives transmission modifications including an uprated cooler that enables a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 pounds—the highest ever offered on a Forester.
All models benefit from Subaru’s Global Platform, which has been strengthened for the new generation to deliver 10 percent stiffer torsional rigidity compared to the outgoing model. This improvement should translate to better handling and refinement, addressing long-standing criticisms of the Forester’s road manners.
Interior and Technology Updates
Subaru has addressed previous criticisms of the Forester’s interior with a revised center console design. The new layout accommodates oversized 32-ounce water bottles, includes additional storage for personal items and phones, and features a more compact shifter design. The center armrest has been enlarged, and overall storage capacity has increased.
The base model comes with dual 7-inch touchscreens, while most other trims upgrade to an 11.6-inch display with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability. The Wilderness model with the optional package includes a new 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, bringing the interior more in line with contemporary expectations.
Looking Forward
The 2026 Forester represents an evolutionary rather than revolutionary update to Subaru’s best-selling model. The company has wisely focused on addressing known weaknesses—interior refinement, structural rigidity, and safety technology—while maintaining the practical virtues that have made the Forester popular among outdoor enthusiasts and value-conscious families.
Production of all 2026 Forester models will take place at Subaru of Indiana Automotive in Lafayette, Indiana, alongside the three-row Ascent and Crosstrek models. The facility’s location in the American heartland helps Subaru avoid potential tariff issues while supporting domestic manufacturing.