The Bold Evolution of the 2026 Subaru Forester
The Bold Evolution of the 2026 Subaru Forester
The 2026 Subaru Forester marks a significant milestone in the evolution of the compact crossover, combining a complete sixth-generation redesign with the highly anticipated return of its most capable variant. This latest iteration retains the signature boxy silhouette that provides superior outward visibility while introducing a more flush grille and headlight design. For those interested in the latest additions to our lineup, we invite you to browse our current new-vehicle inventory or visit us at 1727 Market St, Pocomoke City, MD 21851. If you have questions before making the trip, feel free to give our team a quick call.
A major highlight for this model year is the return of the Wilderness trim, which now benefits from the same structural and aesthetic updates the rest of the lineup received previously. Beyond the rugged styling, the 2026 lineup introduces a new Onyx Edition, which utilizes Sport trim equipment but adds darkened exterior accents and black 19-inch wheels. We also offer several other versatile options, and you can view this new Crosstrek or examine the details of this Ascent to see how they compare in size and features.
Our team is ready to help you discover the new Subaru Forester and explore how it fits your lifestyle. Whether you want to see the new Forester Hybrid or explore the Forester Wilderness, we have the resources to guide your decision. You can also discover the new Subaru Outback or view the new Subaru Ascent if you require more cargo room. For those seeking smaller or more specialized vehicles, you might discover the new Subaru Crosstrek, view the new Subaru Impreza, discover the new Subaru WRX, or even see the new Subaru Solterra.
To help you find the perfect match, our site allows you to research the Subaru Forester, research the Forester Hybrid, or research the Subaru Outback. For performance enthusiasts and commuters, we recommend you research the Subaru BRZ, research the Subaru Impreza, or research the Subaru Solterra. Families can research the Subaru Ascent or research the Subaru Crosstrek. We even have information to help you explore the Subaru Uncharted and learn about the Subaru Trailseeker.
If you are looking for specific configurations, you can see our available stock, such as this premium crossover or this additional premium unit. We also have regional options like this configuration near Snow Hill or this model for regional shoppers. For those closer to other areas, consider this Crosstrek Premium or this specific Chincoteague-area vehicle. Higher trims are also available, including this limited trim near Princess Anne or this limited configuration. If efficiency is your priority, this hybrid model near Princess Anne or this hybrid option might be the right fit. Sports car fans can view this new BRZ, this BRZ near Snow Hill, or this unit for Chincoteague-area drivers. Finally, our three-row SUV stock includes this Ascent Touring, this Ascent near Snow Hill, this regional Ascent Touring, this Chincoteague configuration, and this Onyx Edition Ascent. Additional options include this Onyx variant, this Chincoteague Onyx unit, this additional Onyx option, this 8-passenger Ascent, this Chincoteague 8-passenger model, this 7-passenger Ascent, this limited 7-passenger unit, this Snow Hill limited Ascent, this Chincoteague 7-passenger Ascent, and this additional 7-passenger limited model. To see any of these in person, you can get directions to our Pocomoke City showroom.
Table of Contents
- Under the Hood: Engine Specifications and Trail-Ready Performance
- Exploring the 2026 Subaru Forester Trim Lineup
- Rugged Capability: Off-Road Features and the Wilderness Trim
- Advanced Safety Technology and EyeSight Driver Assist
- What Buyers Ask Most About the 2026 Forester
- Find Your 2026 Subaru Forester at Buchanan Subaru
Under the Hood: Engine Specifications and Trail-Ready Performance
Every trim of the 2026 Subaru Forester is powered by a 2.5L H4 engine, a horizontally opposed configuration that places the center of gravity lower in the chassis for enhanced stability. This engine produces 180 hp and 178 lb-ft of torque, providing a balanced power delivery that feels eager at lower revs. This tuning makes the vehicle acceptably quick for daily duties and merging onto highways. If you are looking for a reliable pre-owned model with similar performance, you can explore our used vehicle inventory to see our current selection.
Engine & Performance
Powertrain specifications across trim levels
| Feature | Base | Premium | Sport | Limited | Wilderness | Touring |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Transmission | Automatic | CVT | CVT | CVT | CVT | CVT |
Standard across all trims:
| Feature | Included |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.5L H4 |
| Drivetrain | 4WD |
Drivetrain & Off-Road
Drivetrain & Off-Road comparison across trims
| Feature | Base | Premium | Sport | Limited | Wilderness | Touring |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| X-MODE® | — | — | Standard | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| X-MODE® dual-function (Snow/Dirt and Deep Snow/Mud settings) | — | — | Standard | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| Hill Descent Control | — | Standard | Standard | Standard | Standard | Standard |
Standard across all trims:
| Feature | Included |
|---|---|
| Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive | ✓ |
| Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) | ✓ |
| Active Torque Vectoring | ✓ |
| Trailer Stability Assist (TSA) (included under stability/traction system) | ✓ |
| Traction Control System (TCS) | ✓ |
The drivetrain utilizes a Lineartronic CVT on most trims, including the Premium, Sport, and Touring. The Base model is equipped with a standard Automatic transmission. Every 2026 Forester comes standard with Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, a system that continuously evaluates traction to distribute power where it is needed most. This makes the Forester an ideal choice for navigating the diverse road conditions of the Eastern Shore. If you want more technical details about how this system operates, you can ask a service technician for a deeper explanation.
For those who prioritize efficiency without sacrificing capability, the non-hybrid models achieve an EPA-estimated 26 city / 33 hwy mpg. These figures offer strong efficiency for an all-wheel-drive SUV in this class. We invite you to visit our Pocomoke City area dealership to experience this performance firsthand during a test drive. Families test-driving the 2026 Subaru Forester usually ask how the standard Symmetrical AWD compares to the systems in rivals like the Toyota RAV4, and we are happy to demonstrate the Subaru advantage on the road.
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Exploring the 2026 Subaru Forester Trim Lineup
One of the first things I show buyers when they arrive at the showroom is how the different trims cater to specific lifestyle needs, from the essential features of the entry-level model to the premium comforts of the top-tier editions. The lineup begins with the Base trim at a starting MSRP of $32,149, which includes the EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology and dual 7-inch touchscreens. Stepping up to the Premium trim at $36,700 adds popular amenities like a panoramic sunroof and an 11.6-inch vertical touchscreen.
Pricing
MSRP and destination charges (source: MarketCheck VIN Decode (consensus))
| Feature | Base | Premium | Sport | Limited | Wilderness | Touring |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starting MSRP | $32,149 | $36,700 | $39,249 | $41,588 | $42,566 | $44,000 |
Lowest starting MSRP: Base at $32,149
Exterior Features
Exterior Features comparison across trims
| Feature | Base | Premium | Sport | Limited | Wilderness | Touring |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 17 x 7.0-inch aluminum-alloy wheels (dark metallic with machine finish) | Standard | Standard | — | — | — | — |
| 17 x 7.0-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, matte black finish | — | — | — | — | Standard | — |
| 18 x 7.0-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, dark metallic with machine finish | — | — | — | Standard | — | — |
| 19 x 7.5-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, bronze finish | — | — | Standard | — | — | — |
| 19 x 7.5-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, dark metallic finish | — | — | Optional | — | — | — |
| 19 x 7.5-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, dark gray with machine finish | — | — | — | — | — | Standard |
| 225/60 R17 99H all-season tires | Standard | Standard | — | — | — | — |
| 235/60 R17 102T all-terrain tires | — | — | — | — | Standard | — |
| 225/55 R18 98V all-season tires | — | — | — | Standard | — | — |
| 235/50 R19 99V all-season tires | — | — | — | — | — | Standard |
| Full-size spare tire | — | — | — | — | Standard | — |
| LED fog lights | — | Standard | Standard | Standard | — | Standard |
| LED fog lights (hexagonal style) | — | — | — | — | Standard | — |
| Panoramic power moonroof | — | Standard | Standard | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| Raised roof rails | — | — | Standard | Standard | — | Optional |
| Low-profile roof rails | — | — | Standard | — | — | Standard |
| Single stainless steel exhaust outlet | — | — | Standard | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| Dark folding side mirrors (folding mirror finish availability) | Standard | — | — | — | Standard | — |
| Black folding side mirrors | Standard | — | — | — | — | — |
Standard across all trims:
| Feature | Included |
|---|---|
| LED Steering Responsive Headlights (SRH) | ✓ |
| Roof spoiler | ✓ |
For those who want a more athletic appearance, the Sport trim starts at $39,249 and features exclusive wheels and bronze interior accents. If luxury is your primary concern, the Limited starts at $41,588 and includes leather-trimmed upholstery and a power liftgate. The Touring trim, priced at $44,000, represents the pinnacle of the lineup with ventilated front seats and the DriverFocus Distraction Mitigation System. To see which of these models is currently on our lot, you can check our new vehicle inventory online.
For those navigating the flat to gently rolling terrain near the Pocomoke River in Snow Hill, the standard Symmetrical AWD provides consistent traction during the Atlantic coast's unpredictable rainy seasons. We encourage you to visit our Snow Hill area dealership to compare these trims side-by-side. If you are planning to upgrade, our team can help you value your trade-in to see how your current vehicle can contribute to your new purchase.
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Rugged Capability: Off-Road Features and the Wilderness Trim
While many compact SUVs are designed strictly for paved surfaces, the 2026 Subaru Forester is engineered to handle the varied terrain found near the wetlands and coastal waterways of Princess Anne. The Wilderness trim, starting at $42,566, is specifically built for those who frequent tough trails. It features an increased ride height that provides 9.3 inches of ground clearance, compared to the 8.7 inches found on standard models. This extra height, combined with improved approach and departure angles, allows you to clear obstacles that would stop other crossovers.
The Wilderness also includes specialized equipment for adventure, such as:
- Yokohama Geolandar all-terrain tires on 17-inch wheels
- Selectable X-Mode with Snow/Dirt and Deep Snow/Mud settings
- An uprated transmission cooler that enables a 3,500 lb towing capacity
- Standard roof rails with an 800-pound static load capacity for rooftop tents
If you find that your adventures require even more space, you can explore the Outback Wilderness or explore the Crosstrek Wilderness to see the full range of Subaru's off-road capable vehicles. When you are ready to move forward with a purchase, we make the process simple; you can start your credit application online to save time at the dealership.
Advanced Safety Technology and EyeSight Driver Assist
Safety engineering in the 2026 Subaru Forester includes a redesigned rear seat belt system specifically intended to improve protection for passengers during moderate overlap front crashes. This commitment to occupant protection has helped the vehicle earn the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ award for 2026. Central to this performance is the EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology, which acts as a second set of eyes on the road. This suite includes Advanced Adaptive Cruise Control with Lane Centering, Pre-collision Braking, and Automatic Emergency Steering.
Safety Features
Safety Features comparison across trims
| Feature | Base | Premium | Sport | Limited | Wilderness | Touring |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Blind-Spot Detection with Lane Change Assist and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert | — | Optional | Standard | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| Reverse Automatic Braking (RAB) | — | — | Optional | Optional | Standard | Standard |
| 360-degree Surround View Monitor | — | — | — | — | — | Standard |
| Reverse Automatic Braking (RAB) availability (part of EyeSight suite on trims where listed on Subaru comparison) | — | — | Optional | Optional | Standard | Standard |
| DriverFocus® Distraction Mitigation System | — | — | — | — | — | Standard |
Standard across all trims:
| Feature | Included |
|---|---|
| EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology (includes Advanced Adaptive Cruise Control with Lane Centering, Pre-collision Braking, Lane Departure and Sway Warning, Lane Keep Assist, and Automatic Emergency Steering) | ✓ |
| Automatic high beams / High Beam Assist | ✓ |
| Rear-Vision Camera | ✓ |
| Automatic Emergency Steering | ✓ |
| Automatic Pre-Collision Braking | ✓ |
| Advanced Adaptive Cruise Control with Lane Centering | ✓ |
| Brake Assist | ✓ |
| Traction Control System (TCS) | ✓ |
| Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) | ✓ |
| LED Daytime Running Lights (DRL) | ✓ |
Technology
Technology comparison across trims
| Feature | Base | Premium | Sport | Limited | Wilderness | Touring |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Subaru 11.6-inch Multimedia Plus System | — | Standard | Standard | Standard | — | — |
| Subaru 11.6-inch Multimedia Plus System with Navigation | — | — | — | Optional | Optional | Standard |
| 12.3-inch configurable fully-digital instrument cluster (optional on Wilderness) | — | — | — | — | Optional | Optional |
| Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ (integration) | Optional | Standard | Standard | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| Apple Maps® integration | — | — | — | — | — | Standard |
| Voice-activated GPS navigation (included with Multimedia Plus System with Navigation) | — | — | — | Optional | Optional | Standard |
| SiriusXM® and SiriusXM® Travel Link (included with 11.6-inch systems) | — | Standard | Standard | Standard | Standard | — |
| Wireless Bluetooth® pairing and hands-free phone operation | Standard | Standard | Standard | Standard | Standard | Standard |
Standard across all trims: Subaru Multimedia System (base infotainment system)
The 2026 model also introduces Emergency Stop Assist, a feature that activates if the driver becomes unresponsive while adaptive cruise control is engaged. The vehicle will slowly come to a stop, activate hazard lights, and unlock the doors to allow emergency responders access. For those who want to see these features in a different body style, you can view the details of this Crosstrek Limited which shares much of the same safety architecture.
We invite drivers to visit our Princess Anne area dealership to experience a demonstration of these driver-assist systems. Our experts can walk you through how the Blind-Spot Detection and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert work in real-world scenarios. We are dedicated to serving the local community, and you can also visit our Onancock area dealership for a comprehensive safety walkthrough.
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What Buyers Ask Most About the 2026 Forester
Q: Does the 2026 Subaru Forester offer a hybrid powertrain? Yes, a hybrid variant is joining the lineup for the 2026 model year. This model utilizes advanced hybrid technology paired with the traditional Subaru boxer engine to deliver an estimated 35 combined mpg. You can view vehicle details for our other electrified options to see how they compare in efficiency.
Q: How much cargo space is available in the new Forester? The 2026 Forester provides approximately 30 cubic feet of storage behind the second row. When you fold the 60/40-split rear seats down, the capacity expands to roughly 74 cubic feet, which is more space than several major competitors offer. We can show you the exact dimensions and loading height when you visit our showroom.
Q: Is the Wilderness trim the only one with high towing capacity? While most trims are rated to tow 1,500 lb, the Wilderness trim features an uprated transmission cooler that increases its maximum capacity to 3,500 lb. This makes it the preferred choice for those who need to haul small trailers or recreational gear. Our team can help you value your trade-in if you are looking to switch to a more capable towing vehicle.
Q: What financing options are available for new Subaru models? We offer various paths to ownership, including traditional financing and leasing. You can learn about Affirm financing for certain purchases or learn more about us and our commitment to finding a payment plan that fits your budget. Our finance center works with a variety of lenders to provide competitive rates for our customers.
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Find Your 2026 Subaru Forester at Buchanan Subaru
Our team is dedicated to providing a transparent and informative buying experience for every guest who walks through our doors. Whether you are looking for the trail-ready Wilderness or the refined Touring trim, we have the expertise to help you select the configuration that best suits your needs. You can view this Ascent Touring to see another example of the high-quality vehicles we keep in stock.
When you are ready to take the next step, we invite you to get directions to Buchanan Subaru and visit our showroom in Pocomoke City. Our staff is available to answer any questions and help you schedule a test drive at your convenience. We look forward to helping you drive home in a vehicle that offers the perfect blend of safety, capability, and modern technology.
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