The new 2027 Subaru Forester Wilderness Hybrid brings together two branches of the existing Forester family tree: the fuel-efficient Forester Hybrid model and the off-road-oriented Wilderness trim level. The result is a more diverse hybrid lineup and a far more efficient Wilderness. It also gives Subaru a competitor to other off-road-oriented compact SUV hybrids.
The Forester Wilderness was previously available only with the SUV’s base engine: a 180-horsepower naturally aspirated four-cylinder boxer that delivers 26 mpg combined in the Wilderness (compared with 28 or 29 mpg combined in other trims).
As the name implies, the Wilderness Hybrid adds the hybrid powertrain available on other Forester trims. It pairs a lithium-ion battery and electric motors with a slightly different four-cylinder boxer engine for a total system output of 194 hp.
Official fuel economy estimates have not yet been announced, but Subaru indicates a 25-percent improvement. Theoretically, that would mean 32.5 mpg combined, which would make sense given that other trims return 35 mpg combined.
If true, this would be less than the other off-road-oriented compact SUV hybrids: the Toyota RAV4 Woodland (38 mpg combined) and the Honda CR-V TrailSport (35 mpg combined).
To be fair, the Forester Wilderness Hybrid is more off-road oriented. The RAV4 Woodland and CR-V TrailSport have less ground clearance than the standard Forester Hybrid’s already lofty 8.7 inches. The Wilderness goes up to 9.3. The Wilderness also has better approach (23.5 degrees versus 19), departure (25.5 versus 24.6), and breakover (20.6 versus 19.3) angles than the standard Forester Hybrid.
Other upgrades are shared with the non-hybrid Wilderness. The tires are upgraded to Yokohama Geolander all-terrain tires mounted on Wilderness-exclusive 17-inch matte black wheels. The suspension is specially tuned, and Subaru added sound absorbing materials and additional structural adhesives to reduce noise and vibration while off-roading. There are also X-Mode off-road drive modes, including Snow/Dirt and Deep Snow/Mud settings.
Visually, the Wilderness Hybrid looks almost identical to the non-hybrid version, except for the word “Hybrid” added to the Subaru Wilderness badging. In addition to the special wheels and tires, it features unique front-end styling, hexagonal LED fog lights, copper trim pieces, and a matte black hood graphic to reduce glare.
The interior features water-resistant simulated-leather upholstery in gray, with copper-colored stitching and Wilderness logos embossed on the headrests. It also includes all-weather floor mats, a cargo tray, and a full-size spare all-terrain tire.
Besides the already-mentioned RAV4 Woodland and CR-V TrailSport, there are other off-road-oriented compact SUV models to consider: Hyundai Tucson XRT, Kia Sportage X-Pro, and Nissan Rogue Rock Creek. However, they are not available with a hybrid powertrain. The Wilderness Hybrid’s combination of extra off-road capability and an extra-efficient powertrain positions it well to stand out.
It goes on sale in late 2026, with pricing and fuel economy estimates announced closer to launch.
Subaru is the source of information in this article. It was accurate as of June 19, 2026, but it may have changed since then. Always confirm product details and availability with the automaker’s website or your local dealership.
James Riswick has been testing and reviewing cars since 2007, serving as an editor at Edmunds and Autoblog. In addition to jdpower.com, he has also contributed to Autotrader, Autoguide Magazine, Auto Express, Capital One Auto Navigator, Car and Driver, and Hagerty. He resides in Southern California and owns a 1998 BMW Z3, a 2013 Mercedes-Benz E350 Wagon, and a 2025 Cadillac Optiq.
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