Subaru expanded its rugged lineup at the 2026 New York International Auto Show with the debut of the 2027 Forester Wilderness Hybrid. This marks the first time Subaru’s rugged Wilderness treatment has been paired with a hybrid powertrain, offering a 25% boost in fuel economy without sacrificing the brand’s signature off-pavement performance.

The Wilderness builds on the foundation of the 2026 Subaru Forester Hybrid, sharing its efficient 194-horsepower system.

While the 2026 Forester Hybrid is already a capable choice for daily driving and those weekend camping trips, the 2027 Wilderness Hybrid is tuned for longer excursions away from home. In so many words, Subaru is bridging the gap for buyers who want a lifted, trail-ready SUV but are tired of the gas-guzzler fuel costs usually associated with off-road tires and high-clearance suspensions.

Base Trim Engine

2.5L H4 ICE

Base Trim Transmission

8-speed Lineartronic CVT

Base Trim Drivetrain

All-Wheel Drive

Best of both worlds

Just without the spare

Credit: Subaru

Typically, adding a high-capacity lithium-ion battery to an off-roader forces a choice: raise the floor (losing cargo space) or lower the chassis (losing ground clearance). Subaru managed to avoid both.

By using longer coil springs and upgraded shock absorbers, the Wilderness Hybrid increases its ground clearance to 9.3 inches, a step up from the already impressive 8.7 inches of the Forester Hybrid. There is no loss in cargo space either, as the Wilderness Hybrid offers 27.5 cubic feet with the seats up and over 69 cubic feet with them folded forward, matching the gas-only version exactly.

However, this does come with a specific packaging trade-off. In most hybrid SUVs, the high-voltage battery occupies the space beneath the cargo floor where a spare tire would normally live.

To maintain the full 69.1 cubic feet of cargo volume, Subaru does not include the full-size spare tire found in the gas-only Wilderness. Instead, it utilizes a repair kit to make room for the battery pack. For serious overlanders who frequent trails where a sidewall tear is a possibility (which a tire repair kit cannot address), this is an important detail to consider.

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Subaru takes a unique approach

Symmetrical all-wheel drive is a key differentiator

Unlike many competitors that use independent electric motors to power the rear wheels, the 2027 Forester Wilderness Hybrid utilizes Subaru’s proven Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive with a mechanical connection between the front and rear axles. Subaru’s approach is quite different than something like the 2027 Nissan Rogue Hybrid e-POWER, which effectively has no transmission.

While the merits of Nissan and Subaru’s individual approaches to hybrid design can be debated, one thing is for sure: Subaru’s all-wheel drive system is regarded for its engineering, design, and performance. It’s a key aspect of the brand’s affordable performance cars, like the WRX, and of its rugged (and also affordable) SUVs, like the Crosstrek.

The hybrid system comprises a 2.5-liter Atkinson/Miller-cycle Boxer engine matched to a Lineartronic CVT, paired with an electric motor generator and an electric traction motor. The system, with a combined 194 horsepower, uses the electric motor, engine, or both simultaneously to turn the wheels.

The Forester Wilderness Hybrid is further enhanced by:

• Improved Geometry: Compared to the standard Forester Hybrid, the Wilderness offers better approach (23.5 degrees), breakover (20.6 degrees), and departure angles (25.5 degrees).

• X-MODE Dual-Mode System: Includes settings for Snow/Dirt and Deep Snow/Mud, plus Hill Descent Control.

• Enhanced Grip: Larger Yokohama Geolandar all-terrain tires mounted on Wilderness-exclusive 17-inch matte black wheels.

• Refined Chassis: Additional sound-absorbing materials and structural adhesives for better on- and off-road comfort.

Organizer Dimensions

21″L x 14.6″W x 10.3″H

Special Feature

Foldable

This 13.5-gallon trunk organizer features compartments to organize and store groceries, sports equipment, emergency supplies, and other daily essentials.

Connected and rugged interior

EyeSight safety tech is standard

Subaru has ensured the Wilderness Hybrid is as functional as it is efficient. Standard on all models are raised, ladder-type roof rails with an 800-lbs. static load capacity, designed to support rooftop tents and heavy outdoor gear.

Likewise, the interior is built for durability, featuring gray textured StarTex seating surfaces that are weather-resistant and easy to clean. Standard all-weather mats and a cargo area protector are included. On the tech front, the cabin features:

• 11.6-inch multimedia touchscreen with navigation and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
• Configurable 12.3-inch full digital gauge cluster with Apple Maps integration.
• 11-speaker Harman Kardon system with a 576-watt amplifier.

Every Forester Wilderness Hybrid also comes with Subaru’s EyeSight driver assist technology, which includes safety features like automatic emergency steering, adaptive cruise control with lane centering, and emergency stop assist.

With emergency stop assist, if the driver becomes unresponsive while using adaptive cruise control, the feature will stop the Forester Wilderness Hybrid, turn on the hazard lights, and unlock the doors. From there, Subaru Connected Services will place a 911 call to first responders.

Total package ownership experience

Beyond the fuel savings and off-road capability, the ownership experience of a Forester Wilderness Hybrid is ultimately connected to the brand’s community-focused values. About two weeks after purchase, Subaru invites owners back to the retailer to meet with a delivery specialist who can answer any lingering tech or feature questions. As a thank you, Subaru has partnered with Gifts for Good to offer customers a choice of impact-driven gifts.

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