2026 Subaru Forester
Overview
Capable of climbing mountains yet roomy and filled with little creature comforts, the 2026 Subaru Forester is everything drivers want in an adventure vehicle. A smooth ride makes it an ideal partner on long road trips or day-to-day driving, but the compact SUV is also a rugged partner for all manner of outdoor adventures. There's no reason to give up modern conveniences when adventuring across the miles when the 2026 Subaru Forester is ready to accompany the family anywhere.
Quick Specs
- Engine - 2.5-liter SUBARU BOXER® engine
- Transmission - Lineartronic continuously variable transmission
- Power - 180 hp / 178 lb.-ft of torque
- Seating Capacity – 5?
- MPG – 33 city, 26 highway
- Drivetrain - Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive
Who's It For?
The Forester's class-leading 8.7 inches of ground clearance, symmetrical all-wheel drive, and relatively modest pricing make it the vehicle for those who want to see rather than be seen. An outdoor-friendly vehicle for enthusiasts seeking a car that takes them anywhere, it delivers more at each trim level than expected, so it works well for those without deep pockets.
What's New For 2026?
The Subaru Forester got its last major refresh for the 2025 model year, but the Wilderness trim level wasn't updated until the 2026 model year. Despite the recent refresh to the model, 2026 does bring some updates, like some changes to the center console and the architecture of the front storage compartments for things like smartphones and cups. Subaru made some updates for rear passengers, including an increase in the size of the cupholders, as well as enhancements to the safety belts.
The cabin has a leather steering wheel, enhanced dashboard padding, a wireless phone charger, ventilated seats, and a hands-free power liftgate. Improved, more supportive seating and multiple hooks in the cargo area are also meaningful additions for the Subaru family.
Real World Performance
The 2026 Forester provides a much-improved driver experience due to the stiffer chassis and new steering system. These systems better isolate the driver from the bone-jarring roads. Forester drivers love to travel on its 17—to 19-inch wheels, depending on trim level. All in all, the redesign makes for a quieter ride regardless of road conditions.
The 2.5-liter engine, Lineartronic CVT, and Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive integrate well but will never take the prize at the racetrack. However, the Forester is targeted at the trek rather than the track, so it is more important to excel with practical features like 29.6 cu. ft. of storage space with the second-row seats up and 74.4 cu. ft., with the second-row seats folded, providing plenty of room for all your gear.
Key Features (Standard & Available)
Interior Comfort and Technology
- Dual 7-inch screens or an available 11.6-inch portrait-oriented touchscreen
- SiriusXM All-Access Radio and SiriusXM Travel Link (4-month free Platinum Plan); HD Radio; and over-the-air updates
- Wireless center console phone charger
- Kick sensor-activated Hands-Free Power Rear Gate
- Tablet-style 11.6-inch SUBARU STARLINK® Multimedia system
- Voice-activated navigation powered by TomTom® and SiriusXM Travel Link (3 years free)
- Wireless Apple CarPlay® and wireless Android Auto™
Safety and Driver Assistance
- Advanced EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology
- High Beam Assist
- Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC)
- Brake Assist and Override System
- DriverFocus® Distraction Mitigation System
- Blind-Spot Detection with Lane Change Assist and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
- Reverse Automatic Braking (RAB)
- Emergency Stop Assist
- Rear Seat Reminder
- 360-degree Camera View
Alternative Options
Drivers who like the Forester but want a more sporty experience should consider the capable Subaru Outback. For those who want a more traditional family car, the Legacy is an excellent choice. Not sure yet? The Client can find exactly what you and your family need. Just contact us online or take a look at our current inventory.
