Subaru Forester Redesign Guide: 2025-2026 Changes Explained
The 2026 Subaru Forester is the second member of the sixth generation, carrying the compact crossover SUV even further ahead of the competition. Everyone expected the year after the Subaru Forester redesign to be a relatively low-key carryover, but Subaru has already made meaningful updates. For 2026, the Subaru Forester trim levels have regained the Wilderness level, which was a fifth-generation model last year; the interior has also been upgraded with the redesigned front center console, aligning it with the new sixth-generation platform. At Johnstons Subaru, we want to give you an overview of the Forester so you can be as excited as we are.
2026 Subaru Forester At a Glance
- Since 2025 was a complete redesign, the 2026 Subaru Forester carries many of these updates forward.
- However, a reimagined front console, easier access to Emergency Lane Keep Assist, and the reintroduction of the Subaru Forester Wilderness with updated features help keep the SUV fresh.
- The 2025 Subaru Forester redesign was substantial, featuring a sleeker exterior, an updated engine, and new safety technology.
- Trust Johnstons Subaru to give you a tour of either model, explaining its pros and cons before you test drive.
What's New: 2026 Subaru Forester Updates
The 2026 Subaru Forester saw no significant changes to its engine lineup, and the exterior feels familiar, durable, and sleek – just like the 2025 model. The new Subaru Forester for sale also includes several excellent new perks.
For example, look to the front center console: it's been reimagined for your next adventures, with wider cupholders, a forward storage area, a compact shifter design, a more pronounced center armrest, and a larger storage capacity in the console proper. While it's not a flashy change, you'll definitely notice how useful it is on road trips and commutes alike. In addition, Premium Forester drivers can choose the Emergency Lane Keep Assist system, which monitors surrounding traffic while driving on the interstate. Sport, Limited, Touring, and Wilderness drivers receive this helpful sensor as standard.
2025 Subaru Forester Redesign Recap
There's a reason there weren't many lineup changes. When it joined our showroom, the 2025 Subaru Forester had been fully revamped. The sixth generation of the Subaru Forester better aligns the compact SUV with the rest of our new Subaru vehicles for sale by taking the following steps:
- Exterior: The Forester is designed as the approachable family SUV, and the redesign puts that focus front and center. A sleeker exterior with bronze-finish accents, up to 74.4 cubic feet of cargo volume, and clear trim distinctions make the Forester welcoming and approachable. Other bonuses, such as the foot-activated, hands-free power rear gate, continue to raise the bar.
- Engine: A retuned 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine was built for range. This year also introduced the Forester Hybrid for those who want a bit of extra fuel efficiency for their compact crossover.
- Interior: The cabin was fully revamped for comfort and style. You'll feel refined and at home thanks to carefully designed textures and contrasts. Additional adhesives, more sound-absorbing materials, and advanced welding techniques create a quieter experience.
- Technology: For 2026, accessibility remains the name of the game for the Subaru Forester. Enjoy standard smartphone connectivity, easy access to a heated steering wheel on higher trims, and the most advanced version of the EyeSight Driver Assist suite yet.
This comprehensive update crafted a compact SUV that takes the extra step. The 2026 Subaru Forester features these changes, delivering the sixth-generation experience with minor tweaks.
New Subaru Forester: Changes to the Trim Lineup
While you might be familiar with the design and technology of the 2026 Forester, new features are not the only updates to the vehicle. For off-roaders, you may have noticed that the 2025 Forester Wilderness was based on the fifth-generation Subaru Forester, featuring boxier styling and fewer safety upgrades. In 2026, the Wilderness returns to the modern lineup. That means you get to benefit from the larger center console and 9.3 inches of ground clearance.
The Wilderness trim also boasts impressive off-road credentials: a 3,500-pound tow rating when properly equipped, an available 12.3-inch full digital instrument cluster, the X-MODE Dual Mode System with Hill Descent Control, and a trail-tuned suspension system. If you're looking for a Subaru Forester, new model, and an off-roading specialist in one compact package, consider the 2026 Wilderness trim level. After one test drive on the water-resistant gray StarTex seating surfaces with copper accents, we're sure you'll fall in love.
Explore the 2026 Subaru Forester at Johnstons Subaru
The 2026 Subaru Forester continues the stellar sixth-generation lineup with extra updates to the infotainment console, a more adventure-ready central console, and the introduction of the sixth-generation Wilderness trim. We're excited to see you give it a test drive! With a variety of lease and financing opportunities on offer, this year's Forester is accessible and exceptional.
So don't delay! Check out our new Subaru vehicle specials to see if there are any Forester options available. Even if there aren't, our financing team will be happy to show you how easy it is to budget for any trim level – from the base Forester to the 2026 Wilderness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Did Subaru redesign the 2026 Forester?
The 2026 Forester offers key updates, notably reintroducing the Wilderness as a sixth-generation model. While last year's Wilderness was a fifth-generation carryover, the 2026 version joins the current redesign. All trims feature a reimagined front console with larger cupholders. You still get the stylish exterior introduced in 2025, featuring a sleek grille and steering-responsive headlights, along with refreshed safety features that carry over for the model year.
Will the 2026 Subaru Forester get a hybrid option?
We do not yet have official confirmation on the 2026 Subaru Forester Hybrid. The 2025 Subaru Forester Hybrid is a relatively new member of the lineup, offering a significant increase in gas range thanks to the hybrid powertrain added to the 2.5-liter DOHC engine. We expect the 2026 hybrid to be announced later in the year. For updates, please contact Johnstons Subaru.
Are there any changes to the 2026 Forester trim levels?
There was a major change to the 2026 Forester trim levels: the Subaru Forester Wilderness. The legendary name in off-road capability joins the Forester once again, following its brief break in 2025. It remains sporty and durable in appeal, with a hexagonal front grille and copper exterior accents. X-MODE Dual Mode system with Hill Descent Control and 9.3 inches of ground clearance helps you conquer any obstacle.
