The 2026 Subaru Forester lineup is set to hit U.S. dealerships this fall, and Subaru has locked in pricing. The sixth-generation SUV holds the line with a starting price of $29,995 USD (plus $1,450 destination), unchanged from 2025. Subaru also introduces the most rugged version yet, the Forester Wilderness, with added capability and higher towing power.
Here’s a full breakdown of pricing, features, and what buyers can expect from Subaru’s top-selling SUV.
Trim Levels and Pricing
The 2026 Forester comes in six trims: Base, Premium, Sport, Limited, Touring, and Wilderness. All models use Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, a 2.5-liter BOXER engine with 180 horsepower and 178 lb-ft torque, and a CVT automatic.
MSRP Pricing (before destination fee):
| Trim | Starting Price (USD) | Price with Destination |
|---|---|---|
| Forester Base | $29,995 | $31,445 |
| Forester Premium | $33,385 | $34,835 |
| Forester Sport | $36,105 | $37,555 |
| Forester Limited | $37,695 | $39,145 |
| Forester Wilderness | $38,385 | $39,835 |
| Forester Touring | $41,595 | $43,045 |
Optional packages range from $1,200 to $2,200, adding tech, audio, and driver-assist upgrades.
Key Standard Features Across the Lineup
Even the base Forester offers a long list of standard features:
- Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive
- 8.7 inches ground clearance (Wilderness: 9.3 inches)
- EyeSight Driver Assist Technology
- 17-inch alloy wheels
- Adaptive Cruise Control with Lane Centering
- Steering Responsive LED headlights
- Dual-zone climate control
- SI-Drive performance management
- Dual 7.0-inch infotainment screens with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Rear-vision camera and roof rails
Subaru has added new safety tech for 2026, including Emergency Lane Keep Assist on trims with Blind-Spot Detection, and Emergency Stop Assist when Adaptive Cruise is active.
What’s New for 2026
Forester Wilderness
The biggest update is the 2026 Forester Wilderness, designed for off-road buyers:
- 9.3 inches of ground clearance
- All-terrain tires with a full-size spare
- 23.5-degree approach angle (vs. 19 degrees in other trims)
- 3,500 lbs towing capacity, the highest ever in a Forester
- Wilderness-tuned suspension and transmission with shorter gearing
- Dual-mode X-MODE system for snow, dirt, and mud
- Standard rugged styling with copper accents and StarTex water-resistant interior
The Wilderness also has an option package with a 12.3-inch digital cluster, Harman Kardon audio, navigation, and power rear gate.
Trim-Specific Highlights
Forester Premium – $33,385
Adds more convenience features like:
- 11.6-inch touchscreen with wireless CarPlay and Android Auto
- Wireless charging
- Panoramic moonroof
- 10-way power driver seat
- Heated front seats and mirrors
- Available $1,200 safety package with Blind-Spot Detection and Emergency Lane Keep Assist
Forester Sport – $36,105
Adds unique styling and performance:
- 19-inch bronze wheels and Sport badging
- Bronze interior accents
- StarTex upholstery with contrast stitching
- Dual-mode X-MODE with paddle shifters
- Retuned suspension for sharper handling
- Optional $1,700 package with Harman Kardon audio and power liftgate
Forester Limited – $37,695
Adds comfort and safety:
- Leather upholstery
- 18-inch wheels
- Hands-free power liftgate
- Heated steering wheel
- Blind-Spot Detection and Emergency Lane Keep Assist standard
- Optional $1,600 package with navigation and premium audio
Forester Touring – $41,595
Top trim focused on tech and luxury:
- 360-degree surround-view camera
- Heated and ventilated front seats
- Heated rear seats
- Memory settings for driver seat and mirrors
- Smart rearview mirror
- 11.6-inch navigation system with Harman Kardon audio
- DriverFocus monitoring system
Powertrain and Capability
All 2026 Forester models share the 2.5-liter BOXER engine producing 180 hp and 178 lb-ft of torque. Subaru re-tuned the power delivery for better response at lower RPM. A CVT automatic is standard, with simulated 8-speed manual mode on some trims.
Capability highlights:
- Standard 8.7-inch clearance
- 9.3-inch clearance on Wilderness
- Towing: 1,500 lbs standard, 3,500 lbs Wilderness
- X-MODE traction system standard or available across trims
Safety and Technology
Subaru continues to emphasize safety. Standard features include:
- EyeSight Driver Assist with updated cameras and wider field of view
- Automatic Emergency Braking
- Adaptive Cruise with Lane Centering
- Rear Seat Reminder
- Emergency Lane Keep Assist (when paired with Blind-Spot Detection)
- Emergency Stop Assist with Safe Lane Selection
Optional:
- 360-degree surround-view monitor
- Reverse Automatic Braking
- DriverFocus monitoring system
Market Positioning
With pricing unchanged from 2025, Subaru aims to keep the Forester competitive in the compact SUV segment. The Wilderness trim now targets buyers considering Toyota RAV4 TRD Off-Road, Honda CR-V TrailSport, and Ford Bronco Sport Badlands.
Key value drivers:
- Standard AWD at every trim, unlike rivals charging extra
- Towing upgrades in Wilderness trim, matching some mid-size SUVs
- Safety tech included without requiring expensive options
Compact SUV Comparison: Forester vs. RAV4, CR-V, and CX-5
The 2026 Subaru Forester enters a competitive segment where buyers often cross-shop the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, and Mazda CX-5. Subaru’s pricing strategy and standard AWD set it apart, but let’s see how it stacks up on paper.
| Model | Starting Price (USD) | Horsepower | Torque (lb-ft) | AWD Standard | Max Towing (lbs) | Ground Clearance (in) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 Subaru Forester | $29,995 | 180 | 178 | Yes | 3,500 (Wilderness) | 8.7 (9.3 Wilderness) |
| 2025 Toyota RAV4 | ~$29,500 | 203 | 184 | No (optional) | 3,500 (TRD) | 8.4 (8.6 TRD) |
| 2025 Honda CR-V | ~$29,700 | 190 | 179 | No (optional) | 1,500 | 7.8 |
| 2025 Mazda CX-5 | ~$29,300 | 187 | 186 | No (optional) | 2,000 | 7.6 |
Where the Subaru Forester Leads
- Standard AWD on all trims gives Subaru an edge in value. Rivals charge $1,200–$1,500 extra.
- Wilderness towing at 3,500 lbs matches Toyota RAV4 TRD Off-Road and beats Honda CR-V and Mazda CX-5.
- 9.3 inches ground clearance in Wilderness is higher than most rivals, aiding off-road confidence.
- Safety technology like EyeSight, Emergency Stop Assist, and Lane Keep Assist is standard across trims.
Where Rivals Compete
- Toyota RAV4 delivers slightly higher horsepower (203 hp vs. 180 hp).
- Honda CR-V Hybrid offers better fuel economy, appealing to efficiency-focused buyers.
- Mazda CX-5 continues to attract drivers with a more premium interior and sharper handling feel.
Buying Insight
For buyers prioritizing towing, off-road strength, and standard AWD, the Forester Wilderness stands out. For shoppers who want higher fuel efficiency, the Honda CR-V Hybrid may hold more appeal. Drivers seeking a sporty driving experience may prefer the Mazda CX-5, while the Toyota RAV4 balances power and widespread availability.
Buying Guide: Which Forester Trim Fits Best?
- Budget shoppers: Forester Base offers strong value at $31,445 with destination.
- Daily comfort: Premium trim adds tech and comfort upgrades for under $35,000.
- Style and sharper handling: Sport trim provides the most distinct design.
- Luxury SUV shoppers: Touring trim gives near-luxury features under $45,000.
- Off-road buyers: Wilderness trim is the standout with true SUV capability.
Final Take
The 2026 Subaru Forester lineup stays competitive with a steady price strategy and added ruggedness in the Wilderness trim. Subaru strengthens its appeal in safety, capability, and value. For buyers who prioritize AWD, standard features, and proven reliability, the Forester remains one of the strongest plays in the compact SUV market.
Image Gallery
- Add new comment
- 268 views
