The Next-Gen Subaru Forester Wilderness Is In The Works Now

When will Subaru launch the new next-generation Forester Wilderness?

Outdoor enthusiasts have eagerly anticipated the arrival of the all-new, next-generation Subaru Forester Wilderness. I have good information from a Subaru insider that the all-new next-generation Subaru Forester Wilderness is in the works now. My source tells me that the new outdoor-themed Forester Wilderness trim level will make its dealer launch as a 2026 model year in North America.

Let's delve into what's in store and when to expect it.

William Stokes, Subaru of America's planning manager for the Forester, told Automotive News at the LA Auto Show last year, "Subaru's Wilderness trim, which the automaker launched in 2021 as an overlanding subbrand, will continue to be offered on the Forester but not at launch."

Why is the Forester Wilderness delayed?

Subaru Corporation has a lot on its new model plate with the Forester Wilderness and new Forester Hybrid, which is set to make its U.S. debut next year. The Forester Hybrid will launch first before the Wilderness. The all-new Forester Hybrid could make its global debut at the 2025 LA Auto Show in Los Angeles, California, in late November 2025. However, Subaru of America has not made any official announcement. Like all its new model launches, they keep it quiet and close to the vest. 

The Forester Wilderness will stand out in the crowd.

The next-gen Wilderness trim level is expected to have a distinctive front fascia, setting it apart from the 2025 Forester. It will feature a hexagonal front grille and hexagonal LED fog lights, giving it a unique look. Additionally, it will come with an anti-glare hood decal in matte black, designed to diffuse direct sunlight on the trails. 

It will have water-resistant StarTex seating surfaces, all-weather mats, and a cargo tray. All are well-prepared for muddy feet and gear with wash-and-ready attitudes. Those upgrades are expected, along with extra underbody protection and all-terrain tires. 

Here's the big question. 

Will the Forester Wilderness get an upgrade in power? The 2025 Forester compact SUV is powered by a 2.5-liter Boxer engine with 180 horsepower and 178 pound-feet of torque. That's two less horsepower and two more lb-ft of torque than the fifth-generation 2024 Forester. I don't think the Forester's 2.5-liter Boxer engine has enough power to differentiate the Wilderness from the other trims. 

It needs more to get further off the grid.  

While Subaru has not yet confirmed any new engine upgrades, fans hope the all-new Forester Wilderness will receive more power than the Base, Premium, Sport, Limited, and Touring trim levels. This potential upgrade would set it apart and make it a more compelling choice for outdoor enthusiasts, offering the power to carry extra gear up a steep mountain pass or trail. 

The Outback Wilderness has a 2.4-liter turbocharged engine upgrade, and the Crosstrek Wilderness comes with a 2.5-liter Boxer engine upgrade from the Base and Premium trims. Will Subaru Corporation do the same for the new Forester Wilderness?

Fans would like to see the return of the Forester XT turbocharged model, which is unlikely to happen. However, the 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque 2.4-liter turbo Boxer engine would be ideal for the Wilderness trim level.  

This potential Forester Wilderness engine upgrade would set it apart from the standard trim levels and significantly improve it over the 2024 Forester Wilderness that has yet to sell, as well as the Outback and Crosstrek Wilderness models. 

Another change outdoor enthusiasts want to see is the Forester Wilderness to be built in America. 

Wilderness trims could be built in Indiana as the new Forester production moves to the U.S., as well. This shift not only marks a significant change in Subaru's manufacturing strategy but also brings potential customer benefits, such as reduced delivery times and improved availability of the popular Forester model, ensuring you can get your hands on the new Forester Wilderness sooner.

Subaru has yet to announce the rugged outdoor-themed 2026 Forester Wilderness trim, but it will likely launch late in the summer of 2026, just in time for summer trail adventures. Subaru Corp. is redesigning the rugged trim level in Japan with the help of the U.S. executive team now. Stay tuned. 

What would you like to see in the new Forester Wilderness?

Would you be more likely to buy the all-new 2026 Subaru Forester Wilderness with a turbo engine upgrade? If so, click the red Add New Comment link below and let us know. 

I am Denis Flierl, a Senior Torque News Writer since 2012. I’ve invested over 13 years in the automotive industry in a consulting role, working with every major car brand. I am an experienced Rocky Mountain Automotive Press member. You'll find my expert Subaru analysis here. Follow me on my X SubaruReport, All Subaru, WRXSTI, @DenisFlierl, Facebook, and Instagram.

Photo credit: Subaru USA