What’s New on the 2026 Subaru Forester?
The 2026 Subaru Forester is a natural fit for St. Albans-area families, Burlington commuters, outdoor travelers, and anyone who wants SUV space without giving up all-weather confidence. The current-generation Forester brings a quieter cabin, modern technology, improved everyday comfort, and the familiar Subaru blend of visibility, practicality, and standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. For 2026, the big story is choice: shoppers can compare the gas-powered Forester, the rugged Forester Wilderness, and the Forester Hybrid for added efficiency and range.
2026 Subaru Forester Overview for Vermont Drivers
At Haddad Subaru of St. Albans, the Forester is positioned for drivers who want Subaru capability in a vehicle that feels practical every day. From snow-covered side streets in St. Albans to I-89 commuting, weekend trips to Burlington, and back-road drives around Franklin County, the 2026 Forester brings together standard all-wheel drive confidence, approachable technology, and useful SUV flexibility.


Room for Real Life
A spacious cabin and cargo area make school runs, errands, road trips, and outdoor gear easier.
Standard AWD Capability
Forester is built around standard Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive for Vermont conditions.
Hybrid Option
The 2026 Forester Hybrid adds more power, efficiency, and long-range confidence.
Subaru Forester Model Year Comparison: 2024 vs. 2025 vs. 2026
Use this model-year comparison to see how the Forester has changed across recent years. The table focuses on practical shopper details: powertrain, horsepower, drivetrain, ground clearance, cargo usability, technology, safety, and the best reason to choose each model year.
| Feature Area | 2024 Subaru Forester | 2025 Subaru Forester | 2026 Subaru Forester |
|---|---|---|---|
| Powertrain | 2.5L BOXER engine with Lineartronic® CVT. | Updated current-generation 2.5L BOXER engine with Lineartronic® CVT. | 2.5L BOXER gas model plus available Forester Hybrid powertrain. |
| Horsepower | 182 hp gas engine. | 180 hp gas engine with smoother current-generation tuning. | 180 hp gas engine; 194 hp total system output on Forester Hybrid. |
| Drivetrain | Standard Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. | Standard Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. | Standard Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive on gas, hybrid, and Wilderness models. |
| Ground Clearance | 8.7 inches on most trims; Wilderness up to 9.2 inches. | 8.7 inches on most trims; Wilderness capability available. | 8.7 inches on most trims; 2026 Forester Wilderness increases to 9.3 inches. |
| Cargo & Interior | Practical two-row SUV space with wide visibility and easy loading. | Redesigned cabin with improved comfort, tech layout, and usable cargo space. | Up to 110.8 cu. ft. passenger volume and generous cargo room; cargo specs vary by trim and hybrid/gas configuration. |
| Technology | Available large touchscreen, smartphone integration, and driver-assist features. | Updated infotainment layout with available 11.6-inch touchscreen and connected features. | Available 11.6-inch touchscreen, wireless smartphone integration, wireless charging, and available 360-degree camera on select models. |
| Safety | EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology standard. | Latest-generation EyeSight® safety focus and available advanced driver assistance. | EyeSight® standard; Forester Hybrid has earned a 5-Star Overall Vehicle Score from NHTSA according to Subaru. |
| Best Fit | Shoppers comparing recent used Forester value. | Drivers who want the current body style and modern cabin. | Shoppers who want the newest model year, hybrid availability, and the latest Wilderness capability. |
2026 Subaru Forester Trim Levels
The 2026 Forester lineup gives Haddad Subaru shoppers several ways to match capability, comfort, technology, and budget. Availability may vary, so the best next step is to compare current inventory or contact the St. Albans team for incoming models.
Base
A practical AWD SUV with the space, visibility, and confidence Forester shoppers expect.
Premium
Adds popular convenience features for daily commuting and family use.
Sport
A more expressive Forester with unique design cues and additional comfort features.
Limited
A premium choice with upgraded cabin materials, technology, and convenience features.
Touring
The most refined Forester gas trim with top-level amenities and comfort.
Hybrid
Adds efficient electrified performance while keeping Subaru AWD capability.
Wilderness
Built for tougher trailheads and rougher roads with added clearance and rugged equipment.
New Subaru Lease & Finance Offers
Shopping for a new 2026 Subaru Forester near Burlington or St. Albans? Haddad Subaru of St. Albans makes it easy to review current new Subaru specials, compare financing and leasing options, and start your purchase path online before visiting the showroom.
Why Shop the 2026 Subaru Forester at Haddad Subaru of St. Albans?
Haddad Subaru of St. Albans serves drivers across northwest Vermont with new Subaru inventory, used vehicles, financing support, and a service team familiar with the needs of local Subaru owners. Whether you are comparing Forester trims, researching hybrid options, or trading in your current vehicle, the team can help you shop with clarity.
- Convenient St. Albans location on Swanton Road.
- New Subaru inventory for Vermont drivers who prioritize AWD confidence.
- Current new Subaru specials and finance options available online.
- Helpful support for Burlington, Essex Junction, Colchester, Milton, Swanton, and St. Albans shoppers.
- Easy access to Subaru service and ownership support after the sale.
Areas We Serve
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2026 Subaru Forester good for Vermont families?
Yes. The Forester offers standard AWD, strong visibility, practical cargo space, and a comfortable two-row layout that works well for families and commuters.
What is new for the 2026 Forester?
The biggest shopper-facing story is broader choice, including the 2026 Forester Hybrid and updated Forester Wilderness capability.
Should I choose Forester or Crosstrek?
Choose Forester if you want more space and a taller SUV feel. Choose Crosstrek if you want a smaller, more maneuverable crossover.



