The 2026 Subaru Forester arrives with a standard 2.5-liter BOXER® engine producing 180 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque, paired with Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive as standard equipment—helping deliver traction and composure across different surfaces. A new Wilderness version raises its ground clearance to 9.3 inches and boosts towing capacity up to 3,500 pounds, making it ideal for serious outdoor use. By contrast, the Equinox is powered by a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder making 175 horsepower (and around 184-203 lb-ft of torque in some listings). Front-wheel drive is standard, with all-wheel drive optional, and maximum towing capability hovers around 1,500 pounds.

The 2026 Subaru Forester supports modern connectivity and tech integration with a refined interior experience: available large infotainment screens, digital instrumentation, and optional rugged trims with premium features. The Equinox offers decent technology—an 11.3-inch touchscreen, driver-information display, and wireless smartphone integration—but its baseline specification and off-road readiness lag behind.

Safety remains a cornerstone for the 2026 Subaru Forester with standard all-wheel drive enhancing stability and traction, and a strong driver-assist suite across trims. The Equinox provides mainstream safety features, but many advanced systems may require higher trim levels, and its base FWD configuration reduces standard all-terrain capability.

Inside, the 2026 Subaru Forester blends practicality with capability: spacious seating for five, flexible cargo layouts, available rugged-lifestyle trim packages, and interior design suited for active use. While the Equinox offers comfortable space and utility for daily driving, its emphasis leans more toward urban commuting rather than rugged versatility.