Subaru Electrifies the Wilderness with New Hybrid Option

Subaru has revealed the 2027 Forester Wilderness Hybrid at the New York Auto Show, marking the first time the off-road focused trim receives a hybrid powertrain. The new model aims to deliver improved fuel efficiency without compromising the ruggedness and practicality that Wilderness owners expect.

Performance and Fuel Efficiency Gains

The 2027 Forester Wilderness Hybrid combines a 2.5-liter boxer engine with an electric motor, producing a total of 194 horsepower. This represents an increase over the standard Wilderness model’s 180 hp. Subaru claims the hybrid system provides up to a 25% improvement in fuel economy compared to the existing Wilderness, which currently achieves 28/24 city/highway MPG.

Maintaining Off-Road Capability

Despite the addition of a hybrid system, Subaru has retained the Wilderness’s key off-road features. These include 9.3 inches of ground clearance and a robust mechanical all-wheel drive system. The vehicle also benefits from a specially tuned suspension, all-terrain tires, and optimized approach and departure angles for challenging terrain.

Practicality and Interior Features

Subaru prioritized maintaining the Forester Wilderness’s practicality with the hybrid conversion. The hybrid battery pack does not impact cargo space, offering the same 27.5 cubic feet of luggage capacity as the non-hybrid model. Folding the rear seats expands this to 69 cubic feet.

Technology and Interior Design

The interior features an 11.6-inch central touchscreen, a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, and Subaru’s EyeSight driver assistance technology. Durable, weather-resistant materials and easy-to-clean surfaces are used throughout the cabin, catering to an active lifestyle.

Availability and Pricing

The 2027 Subaru Forester Wilderness Hybrid is expected to arrive in dealerships in late 2026. While official pricing has not been announced, Subaru estimates the hybrid powertrain will add approximately $3,000 to the current Wilderness base price of $38,385.