The 2026 Subaru Forester Sport AWD builds on Subaru's red-hot compact crossover platform with exclusive bronze visual flourishes and enhanced capability. Powered by a 180 hp 2.5L BOXER engine paired with dual-function X-MODE and water-resistant StarTex upholstery, it is built for both city streets and unpaved trails.
Ratings
4.7Expert Rating
142Community Reviews
27Views
Category Scores
Performance8.3
Comfort9.4
Safety9.9
Fuel Economy8.8
Technology9.5
Maintenance8.6
Reliability8.8
Interior9.4
Exterior9.5
Value9.2
Specifications
Powertrain & Performance
Engine Type
2.5L Direct-Injection SUBARU BOXER 4-Cylinder
Horsepower
180 hp @ 5,800 rpm
Torque
178 lb-ft @ 3,700 rpm
Transmission
Lineartronic CVT with 8-Speed Manual Shift Mode & Paddle Shifters
Drivetrain
Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive
Engine Management
SI-DRIVE (Subaru Intelligent Drive)
Maximum Towing Capacity
1,500 lbs
Fuel Economy & Capacity
EPA City Fuel Economy
25 mpg
EPA Highway Fuel Economy
32 mpg
EPA Combined Fuel Economy
28 mpg
Fuel Tank Capacity
16.6 gal
Recommended Fuel
Regular Unleaded (87 Octane)
Dimensions & Cargo
Overall Length
183.3 in
Overall Width (without mirrors)
72.0 in
Overall Height
68.1 in
Wheelbase
105.1 in
Ground Clearance
8.7 in
Cargo Capacity (Rear Seats Up)
27.5 cu ft
Max Cargo Capacity (Rear Seats Folded)
69.1 cu ft
Seating Capacity
5 Passengers
Curb Weight
3,611 lbs
Chassis & Handling
Steering
Dual-Pinion Electronic Power Steering (WRX-derived)
Wireless Apple CarPlay & Wireless Android Auto Integration
Wireless Phone Charger Pad
4G LTE Wi-Fi Hotspot Capability
Harman Kardon Premium Audio System (Optional)
Ownership
Dual-Function X-MODE (Snow/Dirt & Deep Snow/Mud settings)
Heated Front Seats & Heated Steering Wheel
10-Way Power Adjustable Driver Seat
Power Rear Liftgate with Height Memory (Optional)
Keyless Access with Push-Button Start
Clean the StarTex synthetic seating surfaces easily using a damp microfiber cloth without needing specialized leather conditioners.
Expert Review
By FindEdition Auto Team
4.7 / 10 expert score
Overview
The 2026 Subaru Forester Sport AWD builds on Subaru's red-hot compact crossover platform with exclusive bronze visual flourishes and enhanced capability. Powered by a 180 hp 2.5L BOXER engine paired with dual-function X-MODE and water-resistant StarTex upholstery, it is built for both city streets and unpaved trails.
Driving & Off-Road Performance
Thanks to a stiffer chassis (+10% torsional rigidity) and a WRX-derived dual-pinion steering rack, the 2026 Forester Sport steers with improved precision. Dual-Function X-MODE with Hill Descent Control provides outstanding traction on mud, snow, and steep trail descents.
Technology & Cabin Utility
The cabin is centered around a tall 11.6-inch touchscreen display with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Highlighting interior utility are easy-to-clean water-repellent StarTex seats, a panoramic moonroof, blind-spot detection, and a wireless charging pad.
Pros
Distinctive 19-inch bronze-finished alloy wheels and dark bronze exterior styling accents
Water-repellent StarTex seating is durable, comfortable, and easy to wipe clean after outdoor trips
Dual-Function X-MODE with 8.7 inches of ground clearance provides superior snow and trail capability
Spacious interior with standard 11.6-inch touchscreen and wireless smartphone integration
Cons
Naturally aspirated 180 hp 2.5L engine offers adequate rather than exhilarating acceleration
1,500 lb towing capacity is lower than the Outback or Mazda CX-50
Touchscreen interface controls most climate functions
Verdict
The 2026 Subaru Forester Sport AWD is an outstanding choice for active drivers seeking style and all-weather capability. Featuring 19-inch bronze wheels, water-repellent StarTex seats, WRX-derived dual-pinion steering, Dual-Function X-MODE, and standard Symmetrical AWD, it offers incredible everyday versatility.
Pricing Intelligence
MSRP$34,795
Current$34,795
Dealer$33,600
Invoice$32,500
Offer$34,295
Discount500
Finance3.9% APR for 60 months (qualified buyers)
Lease$369/mo for 36 months, $3,299 due at signing
TaxesVaries by state and locality
Product Intelligence
Buying Recommendation
The Sport trim is the sweet spot if you want unique styling, a panoramic moonroof, and durable StarTex seating without moving up to higher, more expensive luxury trims.
Ownership Cost
Clean the StarTex synthetic seating surfaces easily using a damp microfiber cloth without needing specialized leather conditioners.
Alternatives
The Sport trim is the sweet spot if you want unique styling, a panoramic moonroof, and durable StarTex seating without moving up to higher, more expensive luxury trims.
vs Honda CRV Sport AWD: Forester Sport offers superior ground clearance (8.7 in) and standard full-time AWD.
vs Toyota RAV4 SE AWDForester Sport provides better outward visibility and standard Dual-Function X-MODE for off-road trails.
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