Subaru Just Gave the Forester Wilderness the Upgrade It Actually Needed
by AutoExpert | 2 April, 2026
Subaru used the New York Auto Show to show something new for the Forester lineup. The 2027 Subaru Forester Wilderness now gets a hybrid version.
By the way, this is the first time the Wilderness trim goes electric. It keeps the 2.5-liter boxer engine but adds electric assist, bringing total output to 194 hp. That is up from 180 hp on the regular Wilderness.
Fuel economy is where this update starts to make more sense. Subaru says it improves efficiency by up to 25 percent over the current 28 mpg city and 24 mpg highway figures, which is a noticeable gain.
What is also interesting is what they did not change. The new Subaru Forester Wilderness still keeps 9.3 inches, or 236 mm, of ground clearance and a proper mechanical all-wheel drive system. Subaru makes a point here. This is not a soft off-road setup; it is meant to work when the road ends.
The rest of the package stays familiar. You get a specially tuned suspension, all-terrain tires, and improved approach and departure angles. It is not a Wrangler, but it is built for people who do not turn around when the pavement disappears.
Inside, it sticks to a practical layout. There is an 11.6-inch central screen, a 12.3-inch digital cluster, and Subaru’s EyeSight safety system. Materials are durable and easy to clean, which makes sense for how this car will be used.
Cargo space stays the same. You get 27.5 cubic feet, or 779 liters, with the seats up, and 69 cubic feet, or 1,954 liters, with them folded.
The Forester Wilderness Hybrid is expected to arrive in late 2026. Pricing is not confirmed yet, but based on other hybrids in the range, it will likely add around $3,000 to the current $38,385 starting price.
On paper, the update looks minor, but in daily use, it makes a difference.
