2026 Subaru Forester Trim Levels

a 2026 Subaru Forester parked outside of a park

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A Technical Guide for Killeen Buyers

The 2026 model year marks the completion of the Forester’s sixth-generation rollout. While the core lineup carries over the rugged redesign introduced in 2025, the big news for 2026 is the arrival of the fully redesigned Forester Wilderness on the new global platform.

At Cleo Bay Subaru, we know Central Texas drivers need more than just brochures—you need specs. This guide breaks down the engineering differences across the six 2026 Subaru Forester models to help you identify the precise configuration for your daily commute on I-14 or your weekend treks to Stillhouse Hollow Lake.

Powertrain Engineering: The proven 2.5L Boxer

Every 2026 Subaru Forester is powered by the proven 2.5-liter SUBARU BOXER® 4-cylinder engine. This naturally aspirated powerplant is engineered for durability and low-end response, essential for Killeen’s stop-and-go traffic and dusty backroads.

Horsepower: 180 hp @ 5,800 rpm
Torque: 178 lb-ft @ 3,700 rpm
Transmission: Lineartronic® CVT with Adaptive Control.
Drivetrain: Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) on all trims.

While the engine output remains consistent, the Wilderness trim features a unique drivetrain tune with a revised final drive ratio (4.11:1) to maximize low-speed climbing torque.

Trim Level Breakdown

Forester Base	Forester Premium	Forester Sport

Fundamental utility and safety. 17-inch wheels and 8.7" clearance. Tech: Dual 7.0-inch screens. Safety: EyeSight® Technology.	The "must-have" features. 11.6-inch Multimedia Plus system. Comfort: Panoramic moonroof. Capability: X-MODE® with Hill Descent.	On-road dynamics with retuned suspension and 19-inch bronze wheels. Performance: Dual-Function X-MODE®. Interior: Orange contrast stitching.

Forester Base

Forester Premium

Forester Sport

Fundamental utility and safety. 17-inch wheels and 8.7" clearance.

Tech: Dual 7.0-inch screens.
Safety: EyeSight® Technology.

The "must-have" features. 11.6-inch Multimedia Plus system.

Comfort: Panoramic moonroof.
Capability: X-MODE® with Hill Descent.

On-road dynamics with retuned suspension and 19-inch bronze wheels.

Performance: Dual-Function X-MODE®.
Interior: Orange contrast stitching.

Forester Wilderness	Forester Limited	Forester Touring

Off-road beast. 9.3" clearance and Yokohama All-Terrain tires. Utility: 800 lb static roof limit. Towing: 3,500 lb capacity.	Rugged meets refined. Leather-trimmed upholstery and 18-inch wheels. Convenience: Power Rear Gate standard. Seating: Power passenger seat.	The flagship. Highest level of tech and luxury materials available. Tech: DriverFocus® Distraction Mitigation. Comfort: Ventilated front seats.

Forester Wilderness

Forester Limited

Forester Touring

Off-road beast. 9.3" clearance and Yokohama All-Terrain tires.

Utility: 800 lb static roof limit.
Towing: 3,500 lb capacity.

Rugged meets refined. Leather-trimmed upholstery and 18-inch wheels.

Convenience: Power Rear Gate standard.
Seating: Power passenger seat.

The flagship. Highest level of tech and luxury materials available.

Tech: DriverFocus® Distraction Mitigation.
Comfort: Ventilated front seats.

2026 Forester Specs Comparison

Feature	Base / Premium	Sport / Limited / Touring	Wilderness
Ground Clearance	8.7 inches	8.7 inches	9.3 inches
Wheel Size	17-inch Alloy	18 or 19-inch Alloy	17-inch Matte Black (All-Terrain)
Infotainment	Dual 7.0" or 11.6" Tablet-Style	11.6" Multimedia Plus/Nav	11.6" Multimedia Plus
X-MODE® Type	Standard (Premium)	Dual-Function X-MODE®	Dual-Function (Tuned for Trails)
Max Cargo Vol.	74.4 cu. ft.	69.1 cu. ft. (w/ Moonroof)	69.1 cu. ft.
Towing Capacity	1,500 lbs	1,500 lbs	3,500 lbs

The Bottom Line

The 2026 Subaru Forester lineup is more specialized than ever. For pure value, the Premium trim offers the "sweet spot" of tech and comfort. For those who leave the pavement, the Wilderness is no longer just an appearance package, it is a purpose-built tool with unique gearing and suspension.

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Disclaimer

*All pricing and details are believed to be accurate, but we do not warrant or guarantee such accuracy. The prices shown above may vary from region to region, as will incentives, and are subject to change. Vehicle information is based off standard equipment and may vary from vehicle to vehicle. Call or email for complete vehicle information. All specifications, prices and equipment are subject to change without notice. Prices and payments do not include tax, titles, tags, finance charges, documentation charges, emissions testing charges, or other fees required by law, vehicle sellers or lending organizations.

Based on EPA mileage estimates, reflecting new EPA fuel economy methods beginning with 2008 models. Use for comparison purposes only. Do not compare to models before 2008. Your actual mileage will vary depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle.

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