SUBARU SHOPPING GUIDE · DELRAY BEACH
2026 vs. 2027 Subaru Forester: Which Should You Choose?
Start with the Foresters you can compare today. Our remaining new 2026 Forester inventory deserves a place on your shopping list, whether you want everyday versatility, a hybrid powertrain or Wilderness capability. Then compare the 2027 changes that matter to your driving and equipment preferences.
Inventory changes. Confirm the individual vehicle’s year, powertrain, equipment, location and availability before visiting.
What changes for 2027?
The new Wilderness Hybrid combines the Forester hybrid powertrain with Wilderness equipment and 9.3 inches of ground clearance. The 2027 gas Wilderness gains a standard 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, heated steering wheel and heated rear outboard seats; equipment from its previous optional package also becomes standard. Sport and Touring are hybrid-only for 2027.
A reason to consider 2026: A remaining gas Sport or Touring may suit someone who wants those trims with a conventional gas powertrain. Compare the actual vehicles instead of choosing by model year alone.
Compare the lineups
| Your choice | 2026 Forester | 2027 Forester |
|---|---|---|
| Gas trims | Base, Premium, Sport, Limited, Touring and Wilderness. Sport offers an Onyx Edition package. | Base, Premium, Limited and Wilderness. |
| Hybrid trims | Premium, Sport, Limited and Touring Hybrid. | Premium, Sport, Limited and Touring Hybrid, plus the new Wilderness Hybrid. |
| All-wheel drive | Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. | Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. |
Why choose a remaining 2026 Forester?
A 2026 Forester may have the color, seating material, equipment package and powertrain you want. Gas Sport and Touring shoppers should pay particular attention to remaining 2026 choices.
Bring your usual passengers, check your child-seat or cargo setup, and drive the exact trim you are considering. Ask Schumacher Subaru of Delray for itemized quotes on the vehicles you compare. Confirm any savings or special offer for that vehicle and your eligibility.
Find Your 2026 ForesterGas, Hybrid or Wilderness?
For daily commuting
Compare gas and Hybrid models with similar equipment. Consider annual mileage, city and highway driving, purchase price and the features you will use. Hybrid is available in both model years; you do not need to wait for 2027 just to choose a Forester Hybrid.
For Wilderness equipment
The 2026 gas Wilderness already provides 9.3 inches of ground clearance, all-terrain tires and water-resistant StarTex upholstery. Compare its installed equipment with the 2027 gas Wilderness. If you want Wilderness with a hybrid powertrain, ask about the new 2027 Wilderness Hybrid.
Gas and Hybrid versions may have different capability ratings. Confirm the selected model’s towing limits and required equipment before choosing a trailer or accessory.
Questions before you choose
Is the Forester Hybrid new for 2027?
No. The 2026 lineup includes Forester Hybrid models. Wilderness Hybrid is the new combination for 2027.
Should I wait for a 2027 Forester?
Consider waiting if a confirmed 2027 change matters to you, especially Wilderness Hybrid. If a 2026 already meets your needs, compare it now. Ask about current inventory and expected arrivals; an inquiry does not guarantee a production slot or delivery date.
Does every 2026 Wilderness lack the digital instrument cluster?
No. The 12.3-inch digital cluster is available in the 2026 Wilderness optional equipment package. It is standard on the 2027 gas Wilderness. Check the individual vehicle’s window sticker.
Compare your next Forester with our team
Tell us which year, powertrain, trim and features matter most. Open a Forester vehicle listing from our new inventory, then use that vehicle’s inquiry to ask our team about it. Explore our Forester research for model details. For general questions, contact our Delray team. Still comparing vehicle sizes? Start with our Subaru SUV guide.
