Subaru unveils the first off-road focused Hybrid Wilderness

Subaru announces the Hybrid Wilderness for 2027, featuring a 2.5L engine, AWD, and increased ground clearance. See specifications and what to expect.

Subaru prepares a double debut at the 2026 NY Auto Show: Three-row electric SUV and the first Hybrid Wilderness

Subaru of America confirmed two debuts for the 2026 New York International Auto Show. In addition to a three-row electric SUV appearing as the sibling to the 2027 Toyota Highlander, the brand will also present the first Wilderness model with a hybrid powertrain.

The released teaser does not reveal visual details of the hybrid, but confirms the concept: a crossover with a series-parallel hybrid system and all-wheel drive (AWD).

Emblem and visuals: The model retains the characteristic Wilderness look, with the difference being a badge on the rear displaying the HYBRID script, distinguishing it by the presence of the hybrid system. The engine is a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter boxer, which uses the Atkinson and Miller cycles for greater thermal efficiency, coupled with a transmission featuring two motors.

• Traction motor: 118 horsepower and 199 lb-ft of torque.
• Total peak power: up to 194 horsepower for the Crosstrek Hybrid and Forester Hybrid versions.
• Tank capacity: 16.6 gallons (63 liters).
• Estimated range: up to 621 miles (999 km) with a full tank and 1.1 kWh available; off-road use tends to reduce the range.
• Generator function: acts as a starter and converts engine energy to recharge the traction battery.
• Traction motor function: drives the wheels at low speeds, using battery power.

Performance and off-road: Maintaining off-road capability should not be compromised, even with the hybrid, as the high-voltage battery is located under the rear floor. The hybrid system does not harm the approach angle, maintaining the geometry necessary for more challenging terrain.

In terms of dimensions, the Forester Hybrid and Crosstrek Hybrid maintain 8.7 inches (220 mm) of ground clearance. The Wilderness version increases this value to 9.3 inches (236 mm) for the 2026 model year.

Regarding availability, the Hybrid Wilderness crossover is expected to reach dealerships for the 2027 model year. It is not yet determined whether the model will be the Crosstrek or the Forester, but both options have a strong sales history in the US, with the following numbers last year: Crosstrek 181,811, Forester 175,521, Outback 168,771.

As of early 2026, the Forester leads the brand's sales in the US, with 27,295 units sold between January and February 2026, followed by the Crosstrek with 25,443 and the Outback with 22,395.

Between the Crosstrek Hybrid, Forester Hybrid, and the potential Hybrid Wilderness, which one would you like to see in a hybrid off-road version? Share your opinion in the comments below.