2026 Subaru Forester Hybrid Specs: MPG, Towing And The Trim Lineup
The Subaru Forester Hybrid specs promise a balance of efficiency, strength, and versatility. Its 2.5-liter four-cylinder hybrid powertrain produces an estimated 194 net horsepower. The Forester Hybrid earns an EPA-estimated 35/34/35 MPG (City/Highway/Combined)1 and offers a 581-mile driving range.2 Standard Symmetrical AWD adds all-weather capability, and, when properly equipped, the Forester Hybrid can tow up to 1,500 pounds. The SUV measures 183.3 inches wide, 72 inches wide, and 68.1 inches long, boasting a max of 69.1 cubic feet of cargo space.
Take a closer look at this hybrid SUV's specifications, then schedule a personalized walk-through and test drive at Wallace Subaru of Johnson City.
Subaru Forester Hybrid Specs at a Glance
- Powertrain: Advanced hybrid-electric 2.5-liter SUBARU BOXER powertrain producing 194 net horsepower
- Fuel Economy: EPA-estimated 35/34/35 MPG (City/Highway/Combined)1
- Driving Range: Up to 581 miles on a full tank of gas2
- Cargo: Max 69.1 cubic feet of cargo volume and standard 60/40-split rear seats
- Dimensions: 183.3 inches long, 72 inches wide, and 68.1 inches tall, with 8.7 inches of ground clearance
- Interior: 40 inches of front headroom, 37.7 inches of rear headroom, and 106.6 cubic feet of passenger volume
2026 Subaru Forester Hybrid Trim Levels
The 2026 Subaru Forester Hybrid collection consists of four dynamic trim levels. Many Subaru Forester Hybrid specs remain consistent across the lineup, including the powertrain output, fuel economy, and dimensions, but each SUV stands apart with its unique amenities, technology, and design details.
- Subaru Forester Premium Hybrid: Includes a power rear gate, X-MODE, an 11.6-inch infotainment system, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, and Blind-Spot Detection with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert.
- Subaru Forester Sport Hybrid: Features 19-inch bronze-finish wheels, StarTex upholstery, and low-profile roof rails.
- Subaru Forester Limited Hybrid: Brings an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat and 18-inch machine-finish alloy wheels.
- Subaru Forester Touring Hybrid: Comes with leather-trimmed upholstery, DriverFocus Distraction Mitigation, a 360-Degree Surround View Monitor, and heated front and rear outboard seats.
| 2026 Subaru Forester Hybrid | |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.5L 4-cyl |
| Horsepower | 194 |
| Torque | 199 lb-ft (max for motor system) |
| Transmission | CVT |
| Drivetrain | Symmetrical Full-Time AWD |
| EPA-Est. MPG (Cty / Hwy / Comb) | 35 / 34 / 351 |
| Hybrid Driving Range | 581 miles2 |
| Fuel Tank | 16.6 gal |
| Dimensions (L / W / H) | 183.3 / 72 / 68.1 in |
| Ground Clearance | 8.7 in |
| Headroom (1st / 2nd) | 40 / 37.7 in |
| Legroom (1st / 2nd) | 43.3 / 39.4 in |
| Passenger Volume | 106.6 cu ft |
| Max Towing Capacity | 1,500 lbs3 |
| Cargo Volume (Standard / Max) | 27.5 / 69.1 cu ft |
2026 Subaru Forester Hybrid Horsepower, Powertrain, & AWD
Under the hood, the 2026 Subaru Forester Hybrid pairs a 2.5-liter SUBARU BOXER engine with an electric motor, high-capacity lithium-ion battery, and Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). The setup produces a consistent 194 net horsepower, which is 14 more horsepower than the non-hybrid Forester. Subaru designers haven't given a combined torque spec because the engine and hybrid system reach peak output at different points of acceleration; the motor provides up to 199 pound-feet and the engine 154 pound-feet.
Taking this hybrid SUV to the next level is the standard Symmetrical AWD system. This full-time all-wheel-drive setup continuously distributes power between the front and rear wheels to maintain traction, while Active Torque Vectoring can adjust torque between the left and right wheels during cornering. The result is confident traction on wet, snowy, or winding roads throughout northeastern Tennessee without requiring the driver to switch between two- and four-wheel drive.
To learn more about how this sleek SUV stacks up to the competition, check out our Subaru Forester Hybrid vs. Honda CR-V Hybrid comparison. You'll see that the Forester Hybrid stands out in a crowded vehicle segment!
2026 Subaru Forester Hybrid MPG, Fuel Economy & Driving Range
Speaking of Subaru Forester Hybrid gas mileage, the SUV earns an EPA-estimated 34/35/35 MPG (City/Highway/Combined),1 with up to 40% better city fuel economy than traditional gas-powered Forester variants.4 That advantage can be especially useful during frequent stop-and-go driving.
The 2026 Forester Hybrid is also a Consumer Reports recommended SUV, with a 92/100 Road Test score and strong marks for fuel economy.5 Rounding out the efficiency story is the Subaru Forester Hybrid range, which reaches up to 581 miles on a single tank.2
2026 Subaru Forester Hybrid Towing Capacity & Ground Clearance
When the weekend calls for more than a trip around town, the Subaru Forester Hybrid is ready to bring some gear along. When properly equipped, it can tow up to 1,500 pounds, giving you enough capacity for small trailers, bikes, and watercraft. Standard Trailer Stability Assist monitors trailer movement and can apply the brakes when needed to counteract sway.
Beyond towing, the Forester Hybrid brings 8.7 inches of ground clearance, a 105.1-inch wheelbase, and standard all-season tires. That combination gives the SUV useful clearance for gravel roads, uneven paths, and other light-duty adventures without moving away from its practicality.
If your outdoor activities and excursions call for greater capability in these areas, consider the Forester Wilderness. While it isn't a hybrid, the Wilderness boasts the highest towing capacity and ground clearance among Forester SUVs, with a maximum of 3,500 pounds3 and 9.3 inches, respectively. It also comes standard with all-terrain tires and raised roof rails sporting Anodized Copper-finish accents. Based on availability, this trim can also be found among our new Subaru inventory alongside the Forester Hybrid.
2026 Subaru Forester Hybrid Dimensions & Cargo Space
The Subaru Forester Hybrid specs largely mirror those of the non-hybrid Forester models, with the Base and Wilderness trims being the exceptions. The interior dimensions are:
- Headroom (front/rear): 40 inches / 37.7 inches
- Legroom (front/rear): 43.3 inches / 39.4 inches
- Shoulder room (front/rear): 57.7 inches / 56.7 inches
- Passenger Volume: 106.6 cubic feet
Inside, the Forester Hybrid accommodates everything from shopping bags to weekend gear with an extra-wide rear gate and a practical cabin layout. Fold the 60/40-split rear seats flat for up to 69.1 cubic feet of cargo space, or keep the second row upright and still have 27.5 cubic feet for groceries, backpacks, and daily essentials.
2026 Subaru Forester Hybrid Exterior & Colors
On the outside, the 2026 Forester Hybrid measures 183.3 inches long, 68.1 inches tall, and 72 inches wide. Enjoy standard exterior features including a panoramic power moonroof, LED fog lights, a roof spoiler, and raised roof rails.
Beyond its exterior equipment, the Forester Hybrid is available in numerous exterior shades, though not every option can be had for every trim level. The choices are:
- Autumn Green Metallic (available two-tone roof)
- Crystal Black Silica
- Crimson Red Pearl
- Sapphire Blue Pearl
- River Rock Pearl
- Daybreak Blue Pearl
- Ice Silver Metallic (available two-tone roof)
- Magnetite Gray Metallic
- Crystal White Pearl (available two-tone roof)
- Dark Mahogany Pearl
Experience the New Subaru Forester Hybrid at Wallace Subaru of Johnson City
From weekday commutes to weekend escapes, the new Subaru Forester Hybrid brings together notable efficiency, standard Symmetrical AWD, useful storage space, and the versatility to handle a little bit of everything. But the best way to understand what it brings to the road is to experience it firsthand. Visit Wallace Subaru of Johnson City to explore the lineup, take your preferred trim out for a test drive, and discuss current new Subaru Forester Hybrid deals and finance opportunities. While you're in town, you can check out Tannery Knobs Park or the Tweetsie Trail!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Subaru Forester Hybrid a plug-in hybrid?
No, the 2026 Subaru Forester Hybrid is not a plug-in hybrid. Instead, its hybrid system uses regenerative braking to help recharge the high-capacity lithium-ion battery while you drive, so you don't need to connect the SUV to an external power source.
What real-world gas mileage do Forester Hybrid owners report?
The real-world Subaru Forester Hybrid MPG reported by owners varies across different online platforms, with some reporting figures above or below the EPA-estimated rating. Consumer Reports' real-world testing returned 34 MPG overall,6 staying close to its EPA-estimated combined fuel-economy figure.
What engine does the new Forester Hybrid have?
The new Forester Hybrid is outfitted with a 2.5-liter SUBARU BOXER engine paired with an electric motor and a high-capacity lithium-ion battery. This setup boasts a net 194 horsepower!
Discover More Subaru Model Information
1EPA fuel economy estimates. Actual mileage will vary with driving conditions and your vehicle's condition.
2Based on EPA-estimated combined fuel economy and a full tank of fuel. Actual mileage and range may vary
3Maximum towing capacity varies by trim level. Trailer brakes may be needed. See your retailer for details.
4Comparison based on EPA-estimated fuel economy for 2026 Forester Hybrid models vs. standard 2025 Forester models equipped with 19-inch wheels. Actual mileage may vary.
5Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this rating, Consumer Reports members can visit https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/subaru/forester-hybrid/2026/overview/
6Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this rating, Consumer Reports members can visit https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/subaru/forester-hybrid/2026/road-test-report/
