The 2025 Subaru Forester Wilderness debuts with an MSRP starting at $34,995 USD, cementing its position as a capable and accessible choice for outdoor enthusiasts. Combining off-road-focused design elements with Subaru's signature dependability, the Forester Wilderness caters to drivers seeking a practical yet rugged SUV.
Key Specifications of the 2025 Subaru Forester Wilderness
Subaru continues to prioritize functionality and durability in the Wilderness trim. Here's what sets it apart:
Engine and Performance
- 2.5-liter BOXER engine producing 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque.
- Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive ensures optimal traction in challenging terrains.
- Ground clearance of 9.3 inches, higher than the base Forester trim.
- X-MODE system with dual-function settings enhances off-road capability.
Towing and Payload
- Maximum towing capacity of 3,000 lbs, suitable for small trailers or outdoor equipment.
- Reinforced suspension components support rugged demands.
Fuel Efficiency
- EPA-rated fuel economy: 25 MPG city / 28 MPG highway.
- Ideal balance of power and efficiency for long journeys and daily use.
Exterior and Off-Road Features
The Wilderness trim showcases a bold, utilitarian exterior tailored for off-road adventures:
- Matte black cladding on wheel arches and lower bumpers adds durability and aesthetic appeal.
- Unique hexagonal grille design paired with LED fog lights.
- 17-inch alloy wheels with all-terrain Yokohama GEOLANDAR tires.
- Roof rails with a static load limit of 800 lbs, perfect for rooftop tents.
Subaru’s engineers prioritized toughness without compromising practicality. The Wilderness trim stands out with its exclusive Geyser Blue exterior color option.
Interior Comfort and Practicality
Inside, the 2025 Subaru Forester Wilderness combines durable materials with functional design:
- Water-resistant StarTex upholstery resists dirt and moisture.
- 8-inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity.
- Ample cargo space: 28.9 cubic feet with seats up; 74.2 cubic feet with rear seats folded.
- Dual-zone climate control and heated front seats ensure cabin comfort.
Safety Features
Subaru remains committed to safety with its EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, which includes:
- Adaptive cruise control.
- Pre-collision braking.
- Lane departure and sway warning.
- Blind-spot detection with rear cross-traffic alert.
Additionally, the Wilderness trim includes standard LED steering-responsive headlights for improved night visibility.
Pricing Breakdown and Trims
The 2025 Forester Wilderness starts at $34,995 USD (excluding a $1,295 destination charge). Here's how it compares to other Forester trims:
| Trim | MSRP (USD) | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Base | $27,795 | Standard AWD, 6.5-inch display, cloth seats |
| Premium | $30,095 | Power moonroof, rear spoiler, 10-way seats |
| Sport | $32,465 | Sport-tuned suspension, orange accents |
| Wilderness | $34,995 | Off-road upgrades, 9.3-inch ground clearance |
| Touring | $37,795 | Leather upholstery, premium audio system |
How the Forester Wilderness Stacks Up Against Competitors
Here's a comparison of the Forester Wilderness with similar SUVs in its segment:
| Model | MSRP (USD) | Ground Clearance | Towing Capacity | MPG (City/Highway) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Subaru Forester Wilderness | $34,995 | 9.3 inches | 3,000 lbs | 25/28 |
| Toyota RAV4 TRD Off-Road | $38,130 | 8.6 inches | 3,500 lbs | 25/32 |
| Honda CR-V Hybrid AWD | $33,350 | 8.2 inches | 1,500 lbs | 40/34 |
| Ford Bronco Sport Badlands | $38,390 | 8.8 inches | 2,200 lbs | 21/26 |
The Forester Wilderness offers the best ground clearance and competitive towing capability at a lower price point.
Who Should Buy the Forester Wilderness?
The 2025 Subaru Forester Wilderness is perfect for:
- Outdoor enthusiasts who need reliable off-road performance.
- Families seeking a safe, spacious, and fuel-efficient SUV.
- Budget-conscious buyers looking for a rugged, mid-range SUV.
Its combination of affordability, safety, and off-road readiness makes it an appealing choice in the compact SUV market.
Conclusion: Practical and Adventure-Ready
The 2025 Subaru Forester Wilderness balances off-road capabilities with everyday practicality. With a starting MSRP of $34,995 USD, it delivers excellent value for drivers needing both functionality and ruggedness.
For outdoor adventurers or families seeking a reliable SUV, the Forester Wilderness stands as a strong contender in its category.
