04:58 02-04-2026

2027 Subaru Forester Wilderness Hybrid: hybrid power for off-road adventures

The latest addition to the Subaru Wilderness lineup blends the versatility of the Forester Wilderness with the fuel-efficient, next-generation Subaru hybrid powertrain, delivering up to 25% better fuel economy. The Subaru Forester Wilderness Hybrid retains the 9.3-inch ground clearance, dual-mode X-MODE system, Subaru's symmetrical all-wheel drive, upgraded suspension, and all-terrain tires of the non-hybrid model, while adding the efficient powertrain and an enhanced cabin for comfortable city driving.

Like the Subaru Forester Hybrid, the Forester Wilderness Hybrid features a 2.5-liter SUBARU BOXER engine with an Atkinson/Miller cycle optimized for efficiency, paired with a high-capacity lithium-ion battery and electric motors. This setup produces 194 horsepower. The new-generation Subaru hybrid system uses a series-parallel configuration that integrates seamlessly with the existing symmetrical all-wheel-drive system.

The 2027 Subaru Forester Wilderness Hybrid comes equipped with an 11.6-inch tablet-style touchscreen for the infotainment system, a 12.3-inch fully digital instrument cluster with navigation and Apple Maps integration, StarTex upholstery free of animal-derived components, and Subaru's award-winning EyeSight driver-assist system. It is set to go on sale in late 2026, with pricing to be announced closer to launch.

For the 2027 Subaru Forester Wilderness Hybrid, longer coil springs and shock absorbers increase ground clearance from 22 cm in the Forester Hybrid to 23.5 cm. Beyond the updated suspension, the Forester Wilderness Hybrid offers improved on- and off-road comfort thanks to additional sound-deadening materials and structural adhesives, plus a lighter and stiffer chassis shared across all sixth-generation Forester models.

A Lineartronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) helps the next-generation Subaru hybrid system maintain efficiency, while the dual-mode X-MODE system with hill descent control and Snow/Dirt and Deep Snow/Mud modes provides extra confidence off-road. Large all-terrain Yokohama Geolandar tires on exclusive 17-inch matte black Wilderness wheels offer grip on gravel or dirt.

Unlike many competitors, the 2027 Forester Wilderness Hybrid uses Subaru's legendary symmetrical all-wheel-drive system with a mechanical connection between the front and rear axles. Compared to the standard Forester Hybrid, the Forester Wilderness Hybrid has improved approach, departure, and breakover angles—23.5 degrees versus 19 degrees, 20.6 degrees versus 19.3 degrees, and 25.5 degrees versus 24.6 degrees, respectively.

All Forester Wilderness Hybrid models come standard with ladder-type roof rails rated for a static load of up to 360 kg, plus a cargo area of 27.5 cubic feet with a power rear gate.

The 2027 Subaru Forester Wilderness Hybrid features an 11.6-inch Subaru multimedia system with navigation, including support for wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Standard equipment includes a configurable 12.3-inch fully digital instrument cluster with Apple Maps integration and a Harman Kardon audio system with 11 speakers and a 576-watt amplifier.

Exclusive gray-textured StarTex seats, designed specifically for wilderness use, are weather-resistant and easy to clean. They are ideal for adventures, and standard all-weather floor mats and cargo area protection help keep footwear and gear clean.

The 2027 Subaru Forester Wilderness Hybrid is scheduled to go on sale in late 2026, with pricing to be announced closer to launch.