Subaru plans to launch a new Forester in 2026, adding a 1.8L Turbo power version

[PCauto] As per Subaru's plans, the facelifted 2026 Forester is set to be launched between May and June this year. As early as late January 2026, some authorised dealers had quietly begun accepting advance orders.

The centrepiece of this Forester update is undoubtedly the newly introduced 1.8-litre horizontally opposed four-cylinder turbocharged engine.

Codenamed CB18, this engine isn‘t entirely new to Subaru. It has already seen market service in models like the Levorg, where it has proven its low-speed, high-torque characteristics and lean-burn technology.

On paper, it produces about 130 kW (177 PS) and a peak torque of 300 Nm. While maximum power is slightly down compared to the existing 2.5-litre naturally aspirated unit (which makes about 185 PS), torque sees a significant increase of 60 Nm.

This 60 Nm difference is significant. In daily urban driving, the 1.8T version offers noticeably easier getaways, stronger power for overtaking, and more composure when climbing hills with a full load compared to the 2.5-litre naturally aspirated variant.

What’s more interesting is that the CB18 engine boasts a number of technological highlights, such as Subaru's specially designed 'razor' crankshaft. It is only one-third the thickness of the previous FB-series unit yet achieves both higher strength and lighter weight. When combined with lean-burn technology, this turbocharged engine achieves a thermal efficiency of over 40%, placing it among the leaders in its class.

The 1.8T engine is mated to Subaru's iconic Lineartronic CVT transmission, which features an 8-speed manual mode. Combined with the Symmetrical AWD system (standard across the range), this setup retains the Forester's characteristic driving feel while addressing the previous underpowered nature of the entry-level variant thanks to the turbocharger.

In addition, the 2026 Forester's update brings pragmatic changes to its specifications. True to its role as a mid-cycle refresh, Subaru has focused on meaningful upgrades rather than adding features for the sake of it.

On the safety front, the latest EyeSight X driver-assist system is expected to be standard. The combination of a wide-angle camera and radar sensors is said to significantly improve detection of pedestrians and cyclists at intersections.

Inside, an 11.6-inch central touchscreen is now standard. Subaru has also optimised the wireless connectivity for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, addressing previous user feedback about laggy connections.

The suspension on the 1.8T variants, particularly the Sport grade, has been retuned with specific shock absorbers and springs to handle the increased torque. This improves cornering support and overall driving engagement.

It’s worth noting a key market difference: while the 2026 Forester is being promoted in North America with Toyota-based hybrid technology, this particular 1.8T model is primarily destined for the Japanese domestic market and select Asian markets. It slots into the entry-level petrol segment, effectively bridging the gap between the base model and higher-performance variants.

At the same time, along with the launch of the 2026 Forester, the more hardcore Wilderness version and the brand-new Trailblazer variant were also introduced.

The Forester Wilderness variant has been significantly upgraded for serious off-road use. It features higher ground clearance (approx. 9.3 inches), a reinforced roof rack, and could be offered with either the 1.8T or a more advanced hybrid system. The approach angle, departure angle, and break-over angle have also been optimized, and the towing capacity has reached the highest level in the history of the Forester series.