The Subaru Forester keeps proving why it’s one of Australia’s favourite SUVs in 2026. With a reputation for reliability, practicality and award-winning performance, it’s a vehicle that fits seamlessly into both family life and weekend getaways.
The 2026 Forester builds on this legacy with advanced safety features, versatile performance and a spacious, family-friendly interior. It’s a thoughtful evolution of a model drivers already trust, so let’s explore what sets it apart in a crowded SUV market.
Latest awards and recognition
The Subaru Forester’s award-winning streak shows no signs of slowing. In 2025, it picked up several key honours that highlight its strengths in safety, reliability and family-friendliness:
- IIHS Top Safety Pick+ – Recognising superior crash safety and advanced driver-assist systems.
- Consumer Reports 2025 Top Pick – Praised for ride comfort, fuel efficiency, standard all-wheel drive, and long-term reliability.
- Parents’ Best Crossover Award – Acknowledging its spacious interior, practical design, and smart family-friendly features.
- Japan Car of the Year 2025 – Celebrating innovation and versatility in the SUV segment.
Performance and handling that inspire confidence
A huge part of why drivers love the Forester is how it handles on the road. The 2026 model pairs smooth, responsive handling with efficient powertrains and standard all-wheel drive, giving you the confidence to tackle everything from city streets to weekend adventures.
- Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive: Comes standard on every Forester, giving you grip and stability whether you’re on wet roads, winding backroads, or heading off the beaten track.
- Boxer Engine: Its horizontally opposed engine lowers the centre of gravity for better balance and handling, while providing smooth acceleration.
- Fuel Efficiency: With the choice of petrol or hybrid e-Boxer variants, the Forester balances performance with efficiency, making it a practical choice for daily drives and long trips.
Room to relax and space to do more
Space and usability are where the Forester really stands out. With a roomy interior and smart storage features, this SUV is built to make everyday life easier.
- Balanced Interior Space: Rear passengers enjoy generous legroom and headroom, while the high roofline adds a feeling of openness throughout the cabin.
- Smart Storage: Fold-down rear seats, multiple compartments and a large cargo area make it easy to carry everything from groceries to camping gear.
- Technology: The 11.6-inch portrait touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and wireless charging keep you connected and entertained without distractions.
Putting safety first, every time
Subaru has made safety a core part of its brand, and the Forester exemplifies this commitment.
- EyeSight Driver Assist Technology: Standard across all trims, EyeSight includes adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, pre-collision braking and steering-responsive LED headlights.
- Visibility: Large windows and thoughtfully designed sightlines enhance awareness, helping drivers spot hazards and manoeuvre confidently.
- Crash Safety Ratings: With IIHS Top Safety Pick+ recognition, the Forester meets and exceeds some of the highest safety standards globally.
Power to tow and space to carry
The Subaru Forester goes well beyond just comfort. Its award-winning design handles towing, hauling and everyday tasks with effortless confidence.
- Towing Capacity: Some 2026 Forester models can tow up to 1,800 kg (braked), making it easy to take campers, trailers, or small boats along for your next adventure.
- All-Wheel Drive: With standard AWD on every model, towing feels stable and controlled, whether you’re on wet roads, gravel or dirt tracks.
- Cargo Space: The Forester’s roomy interior and flexible rear seats let you pack in everything you need, from sporting gear to weekend luggage, without sacrificing passenger comfort.
Why the Subaru Forester continues to win awards
It’s easy to see why the 2026 Subaru Forester keeps racking up awards. From confident performance and top-notch safety to a comfortable, family-friendly interior, it delivers on the features that matter most to drivers.
But it’s not just about the accolades. The Forester is a vehicle you can count on day in, day out, whether you’re commuting to work, heading out on a family road trip or exploring Australia’s rugged backroads. With its mix of practicality, performance and peace of mind, the Forester sets a standard that few SUVs can match.
Experience the award-winning Forester for yourself
You can read about awards and specs all day, but nothing beats feeling the Forester in action behind the wheel.
At City Subaru, you can explore the 2026 Subaru Forester range in person. Our team will guide you through the trims, explain the petrol and hybrid options, and show you how the Forester’s balance, handling and practical versatility make it a standout SUV for everyday life and adventure.
Book a test drive today and discover why the Forester continues to earn accolades—and the hearts of drivers across Australia.
FAQs about the Subaru Forester award and 2026 model
Q1. What is the warranty and servicing like for the 2026 Forester?
A. Subaru offers a comprehensive warranty on the Forester, typically covering 5 years with unlimited kilometres, along with flexible servicing options through City Subaru.
Q2. How family-friendly is the Subaru Forester?
A. The Forester is designed with families in mind, featuring spacious rear seating, high rooflines for comfort, multiple storage compartments and easy-to-clean surfaces. Child seat anchors and generous legroom make it practical for long trips and school runs alike.
Q3. Are there options for enhancing the Forester for outdoor activities?
A. Yes, Subaru offers accessories like roof racks, bike carriers and cargo organisers. Combined with the flexible interior and AWD, these extras make the Forester a versatile companion for camping, cycling and weekend adventures.
Q4. How does the 2026 Forester compare in fuel efficiency for city and highway driving?
A. The petrol and hybrid e-Boxer models both balance performance and economy. The hybrid version particularly shines on city roads with frequent stops, while both options maintain competitive fuel efficiency on highways, making the Forester a practical daily driver.