Recent leaks suggest that Subaru is preparing to introduce a Wilderness variant for the 2026 Forester, featuring extensive black plastic cladding. The image, shared by Instagram user Kindel Auto, reveals a front fascia with a prominent silver skid plate and a redesigned bumper emphasizing rugged aesthetics.
The vehicle is expected to include additional body cladding, a unique rear bumper, lifted suspension, and new wheels, aligning with the Wilderness sub-brand’s focus on off-road capabilities.
The current Forester Wilderness offers 9.2 inches of ground clearance, and it’s anticipated that the 2026 model will maintain this specification.
While the existing Wilderness model is powered by a 2.5-liter boxer engine delivering 182 horsepower, the redesigned 2026 Forester Wilderness may adopt a hybrid powertrain. This system could combine a 2.5-liter engine with two electric motors and a 1.1 kWh battery pack, producing a total of 194 horsepower.
It’s noteworthy that Subaru did not offer a Wilderness version for the 2025 Forester, continuing the previous generation’s Wilderness model instead. This decision suggests that Subaru is planning a more advanced Wilderness edition for 2026.
As Subaru has not officially confirmed these details, enthusiasts await further announcements regarding the 2026 Forester Wilderness’s specifications and release date.
