Subaru Adds Hybrid Power to Forester Wilderness

Subaru is adding a hybrid option to its more off-road-focused Forester variant. The 2027 Subaru Forester Wilderness Hybrid combines the existing Wilderness package with the brand’s latest hybrid powertrain, marking the first time the trim has been offered with electrification.

Output is listed at 194 horsepower, coming from an Atkinson/Miller-cycle 2.5-liter boxer engine paired with electric motors and a lithium-ion battery. The system uses a series-parallel layout and continues to work with Subaru’s full-time all-wheel drive setup. Subaru says fuel economy improves by up to 25 percent compared to non-hybrid versions, though final ratings have not been released.

The Wilderness Hybrid keeps the same off-road-oriented hardware found in the standard Forester Wilderness. Ground clearance sits at 9.3 inches, supported by revised suspension components including longer springs and shocks. Approach, breakover, and departure angles are slightly improved over the standard Forester Hybrid, and the vehicle rides on 17-inch wheels fitted with Yokohama Geolandar all-terrain tires. Subaru’s X-Mode system with selectable drive modes and hill descent control is also included.

A continuously variable transmission is used to manage power delivery, and Subaru notes additional sound insulation and structural updates aimed at improving ride quality both on and off pavement. The underlying platform is shared with the rest of the sixth-generation Forester lineup.

Inside, the Wilderness Hybrid largely mirrors other Forester models. An 11.6-inch touchscreen handles infotainment duties, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. A 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster is also standard and integrates navigation with Apple Maps. Upholstery is finished in Subaru’s StarTex material, which is designed to be water-resistant and easy to clean, and all-weather floor mats and cargo protection are included.

Cargo capacity remains unchanged despite the addition of hybrid components, with 27.5 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats and more than 69 cubic feet with them folded. Roof rails are standard and rated for an 800-pound static load.

Driver assistance features are standard across the lineup and include Subaru’s EyeSight suite, with functions such as adaptive cruise control with lane centering, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and emergency lane-keeping and steering assist systems.

The 2027 Subaru Forester Wilderness Hybrid is expected to arrive in late 2026. Pricing will be announced closer to its on-sale date.

This article was co-written using AI and was then heavily edited and optimized by our editorial team.

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