Subaru Forester Wilderness debuts on official terms

Subaru has unveiled the second entry in its off-road-focused Wilderness lineup: the Forester with upgraded suspension, transmission, body and cabin.

According to the manufacturer, new shock absorbers and springs should result in less rocking and rolling on uneven terrain, while the road clearance gains another 13 mm (0.5”) and now amounts to 234 mm (9.14”).

Exterior additions include a protective body kit, new anti-fog lamps, an anti-glare hood cover, and special 17-inch wheels wrapped in Yokohama Geolandar tires. Reshaped bumpers and increased ride height resulted in better terrain performance. The angles of approach, departure and ramp now amount to 23.5, 25,4, and 21 degrees, respectively.

New roof rails enable fastening more luggage to the roof. Maximum carried weight is 100 kilograms (220 pounds), but you can put as much as 360 kg (795 lbs) on the roof when the car isn’t moving. The interior and the trunk area benefit from an easily washable StarTex trim.

The 2.5-liter naturally aspirated flat-four rated at 184 PS (181 hp / 135 kW) and 238 Nm (176 lb-ft) of torque stays stock, but enjoys better cooling. Gear ratios have been revised to improve towing capabilities and unlock more torque at the lower end.

Even in its most basic form, the Subaru Forester Wilderness comes with Trailer Stability Assist and an expanded choice of X-Modes, including a few off-road presets.