New 2026 Subaru Forester Redesign
Exterior Design Enhancements
The 2026 Subaru Forester receives a comprehensive exterior makeover, giving it a bolder and more modern appearance. The front fascia is redesigned with a more angular grille and sharper headlights, while the body lines are now more pronounced, resulting in a more dynamic and rugged stance.
Redesigned Front Fascia and Grille
The new front fascia features a larger and more aggressive grille with a honeycomb pattern, flanked by sleek and angular headlights. The lower bumper has been redesigned with a more pronounced skid plate, giving the Forester a more rugged and off-road-ready look.
Updated Headlights and Taillights
The 2026 Forester comes with updated headlights and taillights. The headlights are now sleeker and more angular, with LED technology providing improved illumination. The taillights have also been redesigned with a new C-shaped LED signature, enhancing the Forester’s visibility at night.
Changes to Body Lines and Overall Shape
The body lines of the 2026 Forester have been revised to give it a more dynamic and rugged appearance. The hood is now more sculpted, and the fenders are more flared, giving the Forester a wider and more muscular stance. The overall shape of the Forester remains largely the same, but the new design elements give it a more modern and aggressive look.
Interior Upgrades
The 2026 Subaru Forester’s interior has been redesigned to enhance comfort, convenience, and connectivity. The new dashboard features a sleek, uncluttered design with a larger infotainment screen. The center console has been redesigned to provide more storage space and easier access to controls.
Infotainment System
The infotainment system has been upgraded with a new, larger touchscreen display. The system is more intuitive and user-friendly, with improved voice recognition and navigation capabilities. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are now standard, and the system can be connected to a Wi-Fi hotspot for internet access.
Seating and Storage
The front seats have been redesigned to provide more support and comfort. The rear seats have been redesigned to provide more legroom and headroom. The cargo area has been enlarged, and the rear seats can be folded down to create a flat load floor.
Powertrain and Performance
The 2026 Subaru Forester ushers in a new era of performance and efficiency with its updated powertrain and drivetrain configurations.
Under the hood, the base model now boasts a more potent 2.5-liter naturally aspirated engine that delivers an impressive 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque, providing ample power for everyday driving and outdoor adventures.
Transmission and Drivetrain
Complementing the upgraded engine is a revised continuously variable transmission (CVT) that seamlessly adapts to varying driving conditions, optimizing fuel efficiency and performance. The CVT features a wider ratio spread, allowing for improved acceleration and smoother shifting.
The Forester continues to offer both front-wheel drive and Subaru’s renowned Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, ensuring exceptional traction and handling in all road conditions.
Fuel Efficiency and Performance
The combination of the new engine and CVT results in improved fuel economy, with the Forester achieving an estimated 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway for front-wheel drive models. All-wheel drive models maintain their impressive fuel efficiency with an estimated 25 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway.
The updated powertrain also enhances the Forester’s performance capabilities. With increased horsepower and torque, the Forester now offers more responsive acceleration and effortless overtaking.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
The 2026 Subaru Forester boasts an array of new and updated safety features, further enhancing its reputation for exceptional driver and passenger protection.
Enhanced Driver-Assistance Systems
Subaru’s renowned EyeSight driver-assistance suite has undergone significant upgrades, offering improved accuracy and functionality. The system now features a wider field of view and enhanced object recognition, allowing it to detect potential hazards and react more effectively. Additionally, adaptive cruise control with lane centering has been improved, providing smoother and more precise steering assistance.
Autonomous Driving Capabilities
While the 2026 Forester does not offer full autonomous driving capabilities, it does incorporate several semi-autonomous features. Traffic Jam Assist can take over steering and acceleration in stop-and-go traffic, while Lane Keep Assist helps keep the vehicle centered within its lane. These features are designed to reduce driver fatigue and enhance overall safety.
Comprehensive Safety Features
Beyond its driver-assistance systems, the 2026 Forester comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including:
- Automatic emergency braking
- Lane departure warning
- Blind spot monitoring
- Rear cross-traffic alert
- Reverse automatic braking
These features work together to provide drivers with peace of mind, knowing that their vehicle is actively monitoring potential hazards and intervening when necessary.
Comparisons to Competitors
The Subaru Forester faces competition from several vehicles in its class, including the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, and Mazda CX-5. In terms of design, the Forester’s rugged exterior and spacious interior set it apart from its competitors. The CR-V offers a more urban-oriented design, while the RAV4 and CX-5 have a sportier look.
When it comes to performance, the Forester offers a smooth and comfortable ride, with its standard 2.5-liter engine providing adequate power for most driving situations. The CR-V and RAV4 also offer similar performance, while the CX-5 is known for its more engaging driving dynamics. In terms of features, the Forester comes well-equipped with a standard suite of driver-assistance technologies and a user-friendly infotainment system. The CR-V and RAV4 offer similar levels of equipment, while the CX-5 has a more upscale interior and a wider range of available features.
Pricing and Value Proposition
The Subaru Forester is priced competitively within its class, with a starting price of around $25,000. The CR-V and RAV4 have similar starting prices, while the CX-5 is slightly more expensive. However, the Forester offers a well-rounded package of features and capabilities for its price, making it a good value proposition for buyers looking for a reliable and versatile SUV.
Q&A
When will the 2026 Subaru Forester be available?
The estimated release date for the 2026 Subaru Forester is early 2026.
What are the key exterior design changes in the 2026 Forester?
The 2026 Forester features a redesigned front fascia with a bolder grille, updated headlights with sharper contours, and revised taillights for a more modern and aggressive look.
Does the 2026 Forester offer any new safety features?
Yes, the 2026 Forester introduces several new safety features, including an enhanced EyeSight driver-assist system with improved pedestrian and cyclist detection, as well as a new rear cross-traffic alert system.
What engine options are available in the 2026 Forester?
The 2026 Forester will offer a range of engine options, including a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated engine, a 2.5-liter turbocharged engine, and a hybrid powertrain.
How does the 2026 Forester compare to its competitors?
The 2026 Forester stands out from its competitors with its combination of rugged capability, advanced technology, and exceptional safety features. It offers a compelling value proposition for those seeking a versatile and well-rounded SUV.
