While Subaru is renowned for its commitment to safety, we're also frequently likened to the adventurous vehicles cruising the roads. Our SUV models navigate twists and turns, fearlessly taking on off-road escapades, and the Subaru Forester stands ready to conquer whatever challenges the road presents. With so many SUV options out there, it can be hard to narrow the playing field. Even once you’ve selected a model, there are still so many trims to consider before you’ve got the ride that’s perfect for you. If you want the versatility of the Forester without all the adventure-savvy add ons, one of the base or premium trims might be ideal for you. But if braving the road ahead and taking the path less traveled is a big deal for you, we invite you to take a peek at the Subaru Wilderness. Not only is it made to cater to outdoor, off-road adventures, but it’s also the most durable in terms of hauling large equipment. Our Subaru models are made to keep you comfortable and still be versatile, so check out these helpful comparison pages to ensure you’re finding a vehicle that checks all of your boxes. Take a peek here at how the Forester stacks up against the Forester Wilderness to help you decide which trim is right for you here at Nate Wade Subaru.
The 2024 Forester sits high up off the ground at 8.7 inches, giving you ample space to cruise along busy highways or hit the road less traveled. The 2024 Forester Wilderness sits a little bit higher at 9.2 inches, giving you the most off roading capabilities available for an SUV. Both the Forester and the Forester Wilderness feature 17-inch wheels, with available 18-inch on select trims of the Forester. LED headlights are standard on both models, and fog lights are available on higher trims of the Forester. The Forester Wilderness features hexagonal fog lights to illuminate the road ahead. Roof rails are standard across the lineup but only the Forester Wilderness has roof rails that can withstand up to 800 lbs of static weight.
In the 2024 Forester automatic climate control is standard fare or you can upgrade to dual-zone climate control, which is standard to the 2024 Forester Wilderness. The Forester has 28.9 cubic feet of cargo volume, whereas the Forester Wilderness has two cubic feet less of interior cargo volume. Heated front seats are standard fare on the Forester Wilderness and available on higher trims of the Forester, but you’ll only find available heated rear outboard seats on the highest trim levels of the Forester. Only on the Forester Wilderness will you find StarTex® water-repellent upholstery. The Subaru STARLINK® multimedia system is standard across the lineup, but an 8-inch touchscreen is only available on higher trims of the Forester and is standard on the Forester Wilderness. Navigation is optional.
Both the 2024 Forester and 2024 Forester Wilderness feature the same powertrain setup - the robust 2.5L BOXER® flat engine. You’ll get 182 horsepower and 176 lb/ft of torque with this engine option. Pair it with the Lineartronic® CVT, which comes with either a 7- or 8-speed option depending on your trim. The Forester Wilderness features the 8-speed transmission. Both SI Drive® and symmetrical all-wheel drive are standard across the lineup. X-Mode® is standard to the Forester Wilderness and available on the Forester. The Forester can tow a max of 1,500 lbs but only the Forester Wilderness can double that at 3,000 lbs.
Subaru is known for top-notch safety features, and the 2024 Forester and 2024 Forester Wilderness are no exception. Featuring the coveted EyeSight® suite of driver assist technology standard across the lineup, you can reap the benefits of the system that makes Subaru models so consistently safe. LED daytime running lights and high beam assist are standard features across the lineup, but only the Forester Wilderness offers the 180-degree front view monitor. The DriverFocus® is only available on the highest trim levels of the Forester. Both blind spot detection with rear cross traffic alert and lane change assist as well as reverse automatic braking are standard on the Forester Wilderness and available on higher trims of the Forester.
The 2024 Forester is an excellent choice for a family vehicle, whether you’re looking for a daily driver or something to traverse the sloping highways and uneven roads ahead. With a starting MSRP of $27,095 you can reap the benefits of features like overhead roof rails, heated seating, available X-MODE® and more. The 2024 Forester Wilderness is built for the life of adventure with a starting MSRP of $34,920 offering you roof rails strong enough to hold a canoe or tent, and interior features like water-resistant upholstery as well as performance features to keep you going down the road safely while having fun. When you’re ready to see these models in person stop in and visit us to test drive the Forester and see which trim calls out to you here at Nate Wade Subaru.
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2024 Subaru Forester | 2024 Subaru Forester Wilderness |
|---|---|---|
| Starting MSRP* | $26,495 | $34,920 |
| Standard Horsepower | 182 | 182 |
| Standard Torque | 176 | 176 |
| Standard Towing Capacity | 1,500 lbs. | 3,000 lbs. |
| Standard Ground Clearance | 8.7 Inches | 9.2 Inches |
| Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive | Standard | Standard |
| Standard Fuel Economy (MPG) | 33 Highway / 26 City | 28 Highway / 25 City |
| Multimedia Display | 6.5 inches | 8 Inches |
| Max Roof Rail Capacity | 176 lbs. | 800 lbs. |
| Water-Repellent Upholstery | Unavailable | Standard |
*MSRP does not include destination and delivery charges, tax, title, and registration fees. Destination and delivery includes handling and inland freight fees and may vary in some states. Prices, specifications, options, features, and models subject to change without notice. Select colors may be subject to an additional charge. See your retailer for more information.
