Skip to main content

Subaru Wilderness SUVs offer enhanced off-road capabilities, including more ground clearance, and get many extra standard features that cheaper trims don’t have. Subaru currently offers three Wilderness models: Crosstrek Wilderness, Forester Wilderness, and Outback Wilderness. Let’s explore which one suits your driving needs best.

The Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness is best for solo adventurers

Of all Subaru Wilderness models, the Crosstrek Wilderness is best for solo adventurers for two reasons. First, it’s the most affordable of all Subaru Wilderness SUVs. The second reason is that affordability comes with less cargo and cabin space than the Forester Wilderness and Outback Wilderness.

Starting MSRP$31,995
Power Output152 Horsepower, 145 LB-FT of Torque
Ground Clearance 9.3 Inches
2024 Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness specs.

The 2024 Subaru Crosstrek Widlerness is a subcompact SUV that best serves either a solo adventurer or a duo. If you’re a driver who enjoys off-roading as a pastime yourself or with a partner, the Crosstrek Wilderness is the best choice of the three existing Wilderness models. If you expect to regularly travel with two or more passengers, Subaru’s larger SUV offering is a better choice.

Subaru’s Forester Wilderness is designed for adventurous groups

A blue 2024 Subaru Forester Wilderness is driving off-road.
The 2024 Subaru Forester Wilderness | Subaru

The Subaru Forester, the brand’s top-selling SUV model, is known for its affordability and reliability. While it offers mild off-roading capability, the Wilderness trim significantly elevates the adventurous experience.

In comparison to the smaller Crosstrek Wilderness, the 2024 Subaru Forester Wilderness is a bit pricier but remains reasonable, especially considering its numerous standard features. If you enjoy off-the-beaten-path adventures with a small family or a group of friends, the Forester Wilderness is an excellent option.

Starting MSRP$34,920
Power Output182 Horsepower, 176 LB-FT of Torque
Ground Clearance 9.2 Inches
2024 Subaru Forester Wilderness specs.

Thanks to the SUV’s suspension upgrade and all-terrain tires, the small SUV is more capable than ever before (as a factory model). Can you build the equivalent of a Forester Wilderness? Sure. But Subaru’s Forester Wilderness is affordable enough to make it worth buying for many off-roading enthusiasts. Furthermore, features like its X-MODE terrain management system and its front skid plate equip the small SUV for the gnarliest of challenges.

The Subaru Outback Wilderness: The ultimate family adventure vehicle

A blue 2024 Subaru Outback Wilderness midsize off-road SUV is driving off-road.
The 2024 Subaru Outback Wilderness | Subaru

The 2024 Subaru Outback Wilderness is the largest Subaru Wilderness SUV. That means it has more cabin and cargo space than the Crosstrek Wilderness and Forester Wilderness. So, naturally, it’s the better choice for consumers who intend on adventuring with a large group of passengers and plenty of cargo. More space in the boot means more camping gear and overstuffed backpack space. It has 32.6 cubic feet of cargo space. That’s around six more cubic feet of cargo space than the Forester Wilderness has.

Starting MSRP$39,960
Power Output260 Horsepower, 277 LB-FT of Torque
Ground Clearance 9.5 Inches
2024 Subaru Outback Wilderness specs.

Subaru’s largest Wilderness SUV isn’t as nimble as its smaller siblings, but there are plenty of benefits to being the big brother. Its size also offers a sense of safety both on and off the road for vehicle occupants. Additionally, it has the most ground clearance of all Subaru Wilderness SUVs. The 2024 Outback Wilderness may be the most expensive Wilderness SUV, but some of the best off-road vehicles of all time are midsize SUVs like the Ford Bronco, Toyota 4Runner, and the Mercedes G-Wagon.

Which Subaru Wilderness SUV is best for you? Let us know in the comments below.

Related

Is the Subaru Wilderness Truck What Fans Really Want?