Subaru has just unleashed a more rugged version of its popular Forester SUV – the 2026 Forester Wilderness. Designed to tackle tougher terrain, this mid-size SUV is making waves, but will it ever see Aussie dirt? With tougher looks and more off-road equipment, it's got Subaru enthusiasts here in Australia asking one big question: When can we get our hands on it?
Dylan Anderson
A Forester For Those That Want Adventure:
The latest-generation Subaru Forester has received the more adventurous Wilderness treatment, adding tougher looks and more rugged off-road equipment to mark the return of the "most capable" version of the Japanese brand’s top-selling SUV. If you love tackling trails, camping deep in the bush, or going anywhere you want, this vehicle should seriously be considered! The vehicle promises a "refined interior and improved on- and off-road driving performance". But what will we see in it?
What the 2026 Forester Wilderness Brings to the Table:
- Increased Ground Clearance: With a maximum 236mm of clearance, up from the standard Forester's 220mm, this SUV is built to clear obstacles.
- Tuned Suspension: Longer coil springs and shocks promise improved stability and comfort.
- Revised CVT: A shorter final drive ratio and X-Mode Dual Mode with Snow/Dirt and Deep Snow/Mud settings make off-roading a breeze.
- Beefier Tyres: All-terrain Yokohama Geolandar tyres on 17-inch Wilderness-exclusive black alloy wheels.
- Improved Angles: Better approach (23.5 degrees), departure (25.5 degrees), and breakover (21 degrees) angles.
- Enhanced Rigidity: Subaru’s Global Platform features 10 per cent stiffer torsional rigidity.
More Than Just Looks: Engineering Upgrades That Matter:
Beyond the Cosmetic Tweaks, the 2026 Forester Wilderness Boasts:
- Uprated Transmission Cooler: Enabling a towing capacity of 1587kg.
- Faster Center Differential Lockup: Reducing wheelspin when off-roading.
- Steering Angle Data Integration: For improved stability at turn-in and cornering.
The Big Question: Will the Forester Wilderness Make It to Australia?
The Australian market is a bit different, with more drivers often travelling great distances, as the population isn't as dense. Will Australians be able to purchase the Wilderness is something we expect to know shortly. Check back for future updates!
Subaru Hybrid and what to expect!
What You Should Know!
- 145kW total system output from its 2.5 litre engine.
- 25 per cent better fuel efficiency which saves costs and improves the carbon footprint.
- Long Driving Range that allows driving across great distances
- Advanced Technology to make driving more efficient.
The Price Down Under: What Will the Forester Wilderness Cost Aussies?
The 2026 Subaru Forester Wilderness is getting a lot of attention. Is it going to be at the right price? It will all depend on the features and specifications, when compared to others. It's important to weigh the features when you are purchasing a vehicle - or anything.
To provide a *thoughtful estimate* of the potential Australian pricing for the 2026 Subaru Forester Wilderness, we can examine the prices for the current Forester range to make a best educated guess:
- Subaru Forester 2.5i: $38,690
- Subaru Forester 2.5i-L: $41,090
- Subaru Forester 2.5i Premium: $43,890
- Subaru Forester Hybrid L: $44,090
- Subaru Forester 2.5i Sport: $45,640
- Subaru Forester 2.5i-S: $47,140
- Subaru Forester STI Sport: $48,640
- Subaru Forester Hybrid S: $50,140
With importing costs and a new design, there are many factors to consider for where you are aiming for that purchase. With the other information out there, it should at most cost 65k.
Conclusion:
The 2026 Subaru Forester Wilderness promises to be a rugged and capable SUV. But as to whether we will see it, that will be up to Subaru Australia. Keep checking CarExplore for the latest!
Dylan Anderson
