Auto Guide
2026 Subaru Forester
New Expert recommended

Review and specifications

2026 Subaru Forester

The redesigned 2025 Subaru Forester incorporates a host of new and improved safety technology onto a stiffened chassis that the automaker says helps achieving a quieter ride. Although the aesthetic presence of the new model skews more brawny--thanks to a beefier grille, more squinty headlamps, pronounced and plastic-cladded fender arches, and distinct haunches--it's no surprise that cosmetic changes are relatively minor. The Forester has been a winner for Subaru, providing owners with standard all-wheel drive, big, high-visibility windows, and easy utility. Now the automaker has enhanced its standard active safety features with pedestrian and cyclist detection and a rear seat occupant alert system, and offers driver monitoring and emergency steering as optional equipment. A more fuel-efficient hybrid and off-road focused Wilderness versions are available.

Market value
$34,500
Fuel
Conventional
Transmission
Automatic
Seats
5
View listings Find dealers
Model year 2026
Owner rating Not rated
Reliability 3/5
Data updated December 17, 2025

At a glance

Model data

Overview

Powertrain
Conventional
Body style
4-door SUV
Drive type
AWD
Transmission
CVT
Category
Compact SUVs
Generation began
2025

Pricing

Current retail median
$34,500
Retail value range
$28,975 - $38,000
Original MSRP range
$29,995 - $41,595
Trade-in range
$27,630 - $37,080

Ratings

Road test score
94/100
Reliability
3/5
Expert recommendation
Recommended

Fuel economy

EPA city
26 MPG
EPA highway
33 MPG
EPA combined
29 MPG
Tested city
20 MPG
Tested highway
39 MPG
Tested overall
29 MPG
Annual fuel cost
$1,365
Cruising range
475 miles

Road tests

0-30 mph
3.7 sec
0-60 mph
8.6 sec
60-0 mph braking
127 ft
Avoidance speed
55.5 mph
Test status
Test Completed

Dimensions

Length
183 in
Width
72 in
Height
68 in
Wheelbase
105 in
Weight
3,590 lb
Maximum load
900 lb
Towing capacity
1,500 lb

Interior

Seating
5 people
Front head room
4 in
Front leg room
43.5 in
Rear head room
2.5 in
Rear leg room
31.5 in
Cargo volume
38.5 cu ft
Luggage
4+0+0

Environmental impact

Air pollution score
6/10
Greenhouse gas score
6/10
SmartWay
No

Brand context

About Subaru

Subaru is known for no-nonsense SUVs with standard full-time all-wheel drive. Its cars frequently rank near the top of Consumer Reports’ Owner Satisfaction and reliability ratings, making some used Subarus a good choice. Along with all-wheel drive, Subarus are known for using a “boxer” style four-cylinder engine with opposing pistons that move horizontally. The design reduces vibration and gives the vehicle a low center of gravity. No Subaru would be considered luxurious, but most have options like heated seats and leather upholstery. Unfortunately, blind spot warning (BSW) and rear cross traffic warning (RCTW) are often optional, so buyers must pay extra for important safety features. Subaru hasn’t offered a hybrid since the plug-in hybrid Crosstrek was discontinued in 2024. The Solterra, a pure EV based on the Toyota bZ4x, charges slowly and has short range. Popular sports cars like the WRX and BR-Z show the brand’s wilder side.

Vehicle ID: 35403 First published: December 4, 2025 Updated: December 17, 2025

Values may vary by trim, options, location, and market conditions.

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