The Subaru Forester continues to be a popular compact SUV thanks to its standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, impressive reliability, advanced safety technology, and everyday versatility. For 2027, Subaru is making a few updates to the Forester lineup rather than introducing a complete redesign.
The biggest changes include the removal of the gas-powered Sport and Touring trims, additional standard features on select models, and the introduction of the 2027 Subaru Forester Wilderness Hybrid.
If you're comparing the 2026 vs. 2027 Subaru Forester near Old Bridge, NJ, here's what you need to know about the differences between the two model years.
2026 vs 2027 Subaru Forester Comparison
| Feature | 2026 Subaru Forester | 2027 Subaru Forester |
|---|---|---|
| Exterior Design | Sixth-generation design | Same overall design |
| Gas Engine | 2.5L BOXER, 180 hp | 2.5L BOXER, 180 hp |
| Hybrid Engine | 194 combined hp | 194 combined hp |
| All-Wheel Drive | Standard | Standard |
| Gas-Powered Trims | Base, Premium, Sport, Wilderness, Limited, Touring | Base, Premium, Wilderness, Limited |
| Hybrid Trims | Premium, Sport, Limited, Touring | Premium, Sport, Wilderness, Limited, Touring |
| Wilderness Hybrid | Not available | New for 2027 |
| Limited & Wilderness Features | Standard and optional equipment | Additional standard features |
| EyeSight Driver Assist | Standard | Standard |
| Discontinued Gas Trims | Sport, Sport Onyx Edition, Touring | Not available for 2027 |
Overall, the 2027 Forester maintains the same engineering, design, and capability as the 2026 model while simplifying the gas-powered lineup and expanding its hybrid options.
What's New for the 2027 Subaru Forester?
The 2027 Forester carries over much of what drivers already love about the 2026 model. Subaru's biggest updates focus on trim availability, standard equipment, and hybrid capability.
The most notable changes include:
- The first-ever Subaru Forester Wilderness Hybrid
- Discontinuation of the gas-powered Sport, Sport Onyx Edition, and Touring trims
- Additional standard features on the Limited and Wilderness trims
- Continued availability of the Forester Sport Hybrid and Touring Hybrid
- The same standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and EyeSight Driver Assist Technology
Rather than changing the Forester's overall design, Subaru is refining the lineup to offer more features and additional hybrid choices.
Subaru Forester InventoryIntroducing the 2027 Subaru Forester Wilderness Hybrid
The biggest addition for 2027 is the all-new Subaru Forester Wilderness Hybrid, combining Subaru's off-road-focused Wilderness engineering with hybrid efficiency for the first time.
The Forester Wilderness Hybrid delivers 194 combined horsepower, compared to 180 horsepower in the gas-powered Wilderness model.
It also offers an estimated 30 MPG combined and up to 481 miles of driving range, making it the most fuel-efficient Wilderness model Subaru has introduced.
Despite the improved efficiency, the Wilderness Hybrid retains the capability drivers expect from a Subaru Wilderness SUV.
Key features include:
- Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive
- 9.3 inches of ground clearance
- Dual-Function X-MODE with Snow/Dirt and Deep Snow/Mud settings
- Yokohama GEOLANDAR all-terrain tires
- Upgraded suspension
- Underbody protection
- StarTex water-repellent upholstery
- 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster
- 11.6-inch Subaru Multimedia touchscreen
For drivers who want better fuel economy without giving up ground clearance and off-road capability, the 2027 Forester Wilderness Hybrid is the most significant improvement to the lineup.
Subaru Discontinues the Gas-Powered Sport and Touring Trims
Another important change for 2027 is the removal of the gas-powered Forester Sport and Touring trims, along with the Sport Onyx Edition.
The 2026 Forester offered these configurations with the traditional 2.5-liter SUBARU BOXER engine. For 2027, shoppers interested in Sport or Touring features will need to explore the hybrid versions.
The good news is that Sport Hybrid and Touring Hybrid remain available for 2027.
The Forester Sport Hybrid continues to offer distinctive styling and hybrid efficiency, while the Touring Hybrid provides premium comfort and technology features.
Drivers who prefer a traditional gas-powered Sport or Touring should consider the 2026 Forester while those models are available.
More Standard Features on the 2027 Forester Limited
The 2027 Forester Limited receives additional standard equipment, making it an appealing choice for shoppers who want premium features without moving into a hybrid.
The Limited continues to offer leather-trimmed upholstery, an 11.6-inch touchscreen, and Subaru's advanced safety technology.
For 2027, additional comfort and convenience features become standard, including equipment that previously required an optional package.
These updates give the Limited a more premium feel while maintaining the familiar Forester design and performance.
2027 Forester Wilderness Gets Additional Technology
The gas-powered Forester Wilderness returns for 2027 with its familiar rugged capability.
It continues to feature 9.3 inches of ground clearance, standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, all-terrain tires, and enhanced X-MODE.
The 2027 Wilderness also gains additional standard technology and convenience features, including a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster.
This makes the Wilderness more comfortable for everyday driving while preserving the off-road features that distinguish it from other Forester trims.
Does the 2027 Subaru Forester Have a Different Engine?
No major engine changes have been introduced for the 2027 Forester.
Gas-powered models continue to use the 2.5-liter SUBARU BOXER four-cylinder engine producing 180 horsepower.
Hybrid models continue to offer 194 combined horsepower through Subaru's hybrid powertrain.
Both model years feature standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, helping deliver traction and confidence in rain, snow, and changing road conditions.
The biggest powertrain change for 2027 isn't a new engine. It's the availability of hybrid technology in the Wilderness trim for the first time.
Does the 2027 Subaru Forester Look Different?
The 2027 Forester maintains the same overall exterior design as the 2026 model.
Both model years share the sixth-generation Forester's modern styling, spacious cabin, generous cargo area, and excellent outward visibility.
Trim-specific styling details, wheels, and exterior accents may differ, but there isn't a major redesign separating the two model years.
For shoppers who already like the look and feel of the 2026 Forester, the 2027 model will feel familiar.
Subaru Forester Safety and Reliability Remain Strong
Both the 2026 and 2027 Forester come standard with EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, which includes advanced safety features designed to help drivers stay aware of their surroundings.
Depending on the trim, available features include Pre-Collision Braking, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Centering, Blind-Spot Detection, and Reverse Automatic Braking.
The Forester also continues to benefit from Subaru's strong reliability reputation.
Consumer Reports named the Subaru Forester a 2026 Top Pick, recognizing its combination of reliability, safety, road-test performance, and owner satisfaction.
With much of the Forester's engineering carrying over into 2027, shoppers can expect a similar driving experience from both model years, although long-term reliability data for the newer model isn't yet available.
Should You Buy a 2026 or 2027 Subaru Forester?
Both model years offer excellent capability, advanced safety features, and the everyday versatility Subaru drivers expect.
The 2026 Subaru Forester is worth considering if you prefer the gas-powered Sport or Touring trims, since those configurations have been discontinued for 2027.
The 2027 Subaru Forester is a great choice if you're interested in the latest standard features or want the all-new Wilderness Hybrid.
For shoppers comparing the standard gas-powered Forester models, the differences are relatively small. The biggest reason to choose the 2027 model is the updated trim lineup and expanded hybrid options.
Compare the 2026 and 2027 Subaru Forester in Old Bridge, NJ
If you're deciding between the 2026 and 2027 Subaru Forester, visit All American Subaru in Old Bridge, NJ to explore your options.
Our team can help you compare available Forester trims, explore gas-powered and hybrid models, and find the right combination of features, performance, and capability for your lifestyle.
Whether you're interested in the 2026 Forester Sport, the updated 2027 Forester Limited, or the all-new Forester Wilderness Hybrid, All American Subaru is here to help you find your next SUV.
Explore our new Subaru Forester inventory and discover why the Forester remains a great choice for drivers throughout Old Bridge, Freehold, Marlboro, Manalapan, and surrounding New Jersey communities.
