Subaru Forester vs Subaru Solterra

To create the 2026 Forester Wilderness, Subaru adds all-terrain tires, increased ground clearance, and improved angles of approach, breakover, and departure. Drivetrain modifications enhance traction, added underbody protection prevents damage when off-roading, and a full-size all-terrain spare tire is ready when you need it. Styling changes convey this model’s rugged capabilities, and Subaru outfits the interior for easy clean-up. All 2026 Forester models get a new center console design and updated protection for rear passengers in a collision.

Verdict: Push the new 2026 Forester Wilderness to its limits, and you’ll be impressed by its off-roading capability. But, even if you’re not planning to traverse challenging terrain, it is comforting to know that the Wilderness offers more competence than a typical crossover SUV when confronted with unexpected situations.

The Solterra arrived for the 2023 model year as the first all-electric Subaru for the United States, and now it’s getting some significant updates. The 2026 Subaru Solterra has a new look, NACS fast charging, and more available horsepower. Rivals include other small electric crossovers like the Chevrolet Equinox EV, Ford Mustang Mach-E, Hyundai Ioniq 5, and Volkswagen ID.4, plus the Solterra’s Toyota bZ twin (formerly the bZ4X).

Verdict: Numerous improvements make the 2026 Subaru Solterra a better EV, but not the best one.