2026 Subaru Forester Wilderness Hits the Scene with a Hefty Price Tag
As a car enthusiast who loves keeping up with the latest automotive moves, I was intrigued to hear some fresh news just an hour ago at 10:00 AM IST on August 29, 2025. Subaru has rolled out pricing for the 2026 Forester lineup, and the Wilderness trim is stealing the spotlight with a significant jump to $39,835—over $2,100 more than its 2025 counterpart. This off-road champ joins the redesigned seventh-generation family with bold upgrades, and I’m excited to unpack what’s driving this change and what’s in store for buyers.
Price Breakdown: Why the Big Increase?
The 2026 Subaru Forester Wilderness now starts at $39,835, a $2,130 hike from last year’s model. This bump reflects a full redesign, including a new platform, taller tires, and increased ride height tailored for rugged adventures. Unlike other trims, it skips the hybrid option, sticking with a 180-hp 2.5L flat-four engine paired with a CVT and Subaru’s signature all-wheel drive. Meanwhile, non-Wilderness models see only a modest $30 rise across the board, with prices ranging from $31,445 for the base to $43,045 for the Touring, and trims like Premium ($34,835), Sport ($37,555), and Limited ($39,145) filling the gaps.
Feature Highlights: Built for the Trails
This Wilderness model brings serious off-road cred, building on the 2025 redesign with enhanced ground clearance and rugged tires. The 2.5L engine, while not hybrid-powered, delivers reliable power through all-wheel drive, perfect for tackling tough terrain. It’s a step up from the 2025 version, which lagged behind the latest platform updates, making the price jump feel justified for adventure seekers.
Tech Upgrades: Safety Gets a Boost
Every 2026 Forester with blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert now includes lane-keeping assist, adding a layer of safety for all drivers. This tech enhancement, paired with the Wilderness’s off-road focus, makes it a versatile choice. Subaru hasn’t shared hybrid pricing yet, but expect those details soon as the lineup expands.
Availability: Coming This Fall
Subaru plans to have the first 2026 models, including the Wilderness, hitting dealerships this fall. With the higher price and limited hybrid info, it’s a wait-and-see moment for some buyers, but the off-road appeal could drive early interest. ( Image Source – www.subaru.com )
My Take: A Bold Move Worth Watching
The 2026 Subaru Forester Wilderness’s price hike signals a premium off-road experience. The upgrades are tempting—would you pay extra for this rugged ride, or hold out for the hybrid news?
