2026 Subaru Forester at Delaney Subaru in Indiana, PA | White 2026 Subaru Forester driving in a neighborhood

The 2026 Subaru Forester

The 2026 Subaru Forester brings a refreshed design, upgraded capabilities, and more standard features to one of Subaru’s most-loved SUVs. Whether you choose the classic gas version or the new Hybrid AWD, Forester delivers confidence and comfort — on the highway, commuting, or off the beaten path — with standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and advanced safety.

The Hybrid version adds improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions, giving you the best of both worlds: all-weather capability and eco-aware performance.

Performance Features

The gas-powered 2026 Forester is powered by a 2.5-liter SUBARU BOXER® engine (as before), paired with Lineartronic® CVT and standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive — giving you balanced traction and control through changing weather and road conditions.

For those seeking improved fuel efficiency and hybrid technology, the Forester Hybrid (introduced for the 2025 model year) blends a 2.5-liter Boxer engine with electric motor assistance for a total system output of approximately 194 horsepower.

The Hybrid system delivers up to ~35 mpg combined (city/highway) according to industry estimates — a noticeable bump over the standard gas Forester — while preserving the standard AWD traction Subaru drivers expect.

As with the gas model, X-MODE® (with Hill Descent Control) remains available across trims, helping the Forester handle challenging terrain, while suspension and AWD tuning give a stable ride both on and off pavement.

This dual-powertrain approach lets buyers choose between maximal efficiency (Hybrid) or traditional Subaru gas-powered responsiveness (standard AWD), without sacrificing versatility or capability.

Style and Technology

Bold new styling for 2026 gives the Forester a confident, modern look — with updated grille, lighting, and rugged SUV proportions that suit both urban driving and outdoor adventure. Inside, every version seats five comfortably, with generous cargo space and Subaru’s commitment to practicality.

For the Hybrid, Subaru also underscores value and versatility: the AWD system is retained, and the Hybrid comes equipped with many of the same modern touches as the gas version — including a large-format multimedia touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, plus premium features available depending on trim (moonroof, upgraded audio, etc.)

Available comfort and convenience amenities — such as available panoramic moonroof, heated/ventilated seats, premium audio — carry over regardless of powertrain, so whether you choose gas or hybrid you don’t compromise on tech and comfort.

2026 Subaru Forester at Delaney Subaru in Indiana, PA | close up of the front headlights of a 2026 Subaru Forester while driving through the mud

Safety

Subaru’s commitment to safety carries through both gas and Hybrid Foresters. Standard on every 2026 Forester — gas or hybrid — is EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, which includes:

Automatic Emergency Braking
Lane Departure and Sway Warning
Adaptive Cruise Control with Lane Centering
Lane Keep Assist

The Hybrid also rides on the same strong chassis and safety architecture as the gas Forester — including high-strength steel construction, multiple airbags, and overall build quality — delivering a safe, reliable driving experience regardless of powertrain choice.

Trim Levels

The 2026 Subaru Forester lineup expands to offer flexibility: choose between the traditional gas-powered trims or the fuel-efficient Hybrid trims. Here’s how both shake out:

Gas-Powered 2026 Forester

Forester — entry-level gas trim with standard AWD, EyeSight, and fundamental comfort & safety features.
Forester Premium — adds comfort upgrades and available convenience packages.
Forester Sport — offers sport-oriented styling, unique accents, and sport-focused interior touches.
Forester Limited — luxury-leaning trim with leather (or premium) upholstery, advanced comfort, and driver-assist enhancements.
Forester Wilderness — rugged, off-road–ready with increased ground clearance, all-terrain tires, and suspension/traction tuning for serious adventure.
Forester Touring — top-tier gas trim combining high-end comfort, technology, and premium design elements.

Forester Hybrid (2025-onward, available trims)

Forester Premium Hybrid — the entry-level hybrid trim that gives you AWD, hybrid powertrain, improved fuel efficiency, and core comfort/safety features
Forester Sport Hybrid — blending hybrid efficiency with sport-inspired styling and features (e.g. alloy wheels, sport-tuned touches).
Forester Limited Hybrid — hybrid version with upgraded comfort, premium interior choices, and more refined amenities (e.g. power seats, upgraded materials).
Forester Touring Hybrid — the hybrid’s flagship trim: highest comfort and tech level, with premium audio, advanced safety/driver assistance, upscale interior, and all the bells and whistles.

By offering both gas and hybrid variants across a wide range of trim levels, Forester gives buyers flexibility: whether you prioritize economy & efficiency, rugged off-road readiness, or full-featured comfort, there’s a Forester suited to you.

Whether you’re looking for rugged capability, refined comfort, or hybrid efficiency with AWD confidence — the 2026 Subaru Forester lineup has a version that fits your lifestyle. Schedule your test drive today at Delaney Subaru and experience the difference for yourself!