The 2026 Subaru Forester is one of the most versatile and capable compact SUVs in its class, blending an agile footprint with a spacious, comfortable interior. A standard 2.5-liter, 180-horsepower SUBARU BOXER engine pairs with a Lineartronic CVT and the legendary all-weather capability of standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, delivering up to 33 MPG highway and standard capability the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, and Hyundai Tucson can’t match. Freshly restyled for this model year, the Forester offers up to 74.4 cubic feet of cargo space and available X-MODE for confident traction. It is available in six gas trims: Base, Premium, Sport, Limited, Wilderness, and Touring, each designed to meet various needs and preferences.
The Premium trim is the well-rounded, everyday entry into the Forester lineup, pairing the standard 180-horsepower engine with added comfort and convenience features. It comes standard with Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, generous cargo space, and Subaru’s proven safety technology. Additionally, the Premium boasts efficient fuel economy and a versatile, family-friendly interior, providing the flexibility needed for daily commutes and spontaneous getaways.
The Sport trim brings a more adventurous personality to the Forester with distinctive styling, dark-finish wheels, and the newly available Onyx Edition Package for an extra touch of refined style. Step up to the Limited trim and you’ll find premium materials, refined details, and a tech-forward cabin that ensures a sophisticated and enjoyable ride. Both pair everyday practicality with the all-weather Subaru capability drivers rely on.
The Wilderness trim is the most rugged and trail-capable Forester, updated for this model year with additional ground clearance, all-terrain tires, upgraded hardware, and drive modes for snow, dirt, and deep mud. Chunky bumpers with tow hooks and unique accents highlight its adventurous spirit, while up to 3,500 pounds of towing capacity expands what you can bring along. At the other end of the lineup, the Touring trim delivers the most refined Forester experience, wrapping the same capable platform in premium comfort and top-tier technology.
The 2026 Subaru Forester comes standard with a 2.5-liter SUBARU BOXER four-cylinder engine producing 180 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque across every gas trim, paired with a Lineartronic CVT. An available hybrid powertrain produces 194 combined horsepower.
The 2026 Forester earns up to 26 mpg city and 33 mpg highway in Base, Premium, and Limited trims. The Sport and Touring are rated around 25/32 mpg, and the off-road Wilderness trim earns about 24/28 mpg due to its all-terrain tires and off-road gearing.
Yes. Every 2026 Subaru Forester comes standard with Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and a CVT for confident handling in all seasons, plus available X-MODE and dual-function X-MODE for enhanced traction on slippery surfaces.
Most 2026 Forester gas trims are rated to tow up to 1,500 pounds with standard Trailer Stability Assist. The off-road Wilderness trim, with its upgraded gearing and hardware, can tow up to 3,500 pounds.
The 2026 Subaru Forester gas lineup includes Base, Premium, Sport, Limited, Wilderness, and Touring trims. Every trim uses the 180-horsepower BOXER engine and standard AWD. A separate Forester Hybrid with a 194-horsepower powertrain is also available.
The 2026 Subaru Forester offers up to 29.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and up to 74.4 cubic feet with the second-row seats folded down — plenty of room for gear, groceries, and family road trips.
Yes. The 2026 Forester is a Consumer Reports Top Pick, and Subaru reports that 96% of Forester vehicles sold in the last 10 years are still on the road today. J.D. Power also ranks the Forester #1 for Projected Resale Value among Compact SUVs.