Everything You Need to Know Before Buying a New 2026 Subaru Forester near Owings Mills, MD
If you are weighing your options for a confident, capable compact SUV near Owings Mills, MD, the newest Forester belongs on your short list. Subaru has refined its winning formula with a roomier cabin, smarter tech, and enhanced trail hardware, all while keeping standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive for everyday peace of mind. Whether your week involves commuting, carpooling, or weekend hiking trails, this SUV adapts seamlessly. At Jones Bel Air Subaru, we guide you through each step with attentive product knowledge and transparent processes, so you can focus on choosing the right trim, features, and accessories for your lifestyle.
Shoppers from Glen Burnie and Newark also appreciate how easily the Forester transitions from city errands to back-road adventures. From the updated interior layout to the rugged Wilderness trim’s increased ground clearance, you get a vehicle that feels equally at home on wet, wintry routes and slow, rocky two-tracks. Below, you will find a concise overview, key reasons it stands out, and in-depth feature details to help you decide if the 2026 Forester aligns with your daily needs and weekend plans near Owings Mills, MD.
2026 Subaru Forester Overview
The 2026 Subaru Forester builds on its go-anywhere heritage with thoughtful updates that improve comfort, connectivity, and capability. Every model pairs a 2.5-liter SUBARU BOXER engine with a smooth, efficient CVT and standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, delivering confident traction in rain, snow, and on gravel. Subaru refines the interior with a redesigned center console that adds a smartphone slot, larger front cupholders, a bigger center armrest and storage bin, and a shifter placed closer to the driver for easier reach. Rear passengers benefit from enlarged cupholders that can handle a 32-ounce Nalgene and revised seatbelt mounting for improved comfort.
Outdoor-focused drivers will be drawn to the Forester Wilderness, which rejoins the lineup with 9.3 inches of ground clearance, revised suspension tuning, a shorter final drive for better off-road response, larger all-terrain tires, and improved approach, departure, and breakover angles. Across the range, you will find an available 11.6-inch infotainment touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto plus a wireless charging pad. If you are searching for a balanced, all-weather SUV that is easy to live with and ready for adventure, the 2026 Subaru Forester near Owings Mills, MD hits the sweet spot.
5 Key Reasons the 2026 Subaru Forester Stands Out near Owings Mills, MD
- Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive confidence in all seasons
- Roomy, well-thought-out cabin with versatile cargo capacity
- Trail-ready Wilderness hardware with increased ground clearance
- Intuitive 11.6-inch infotainment with wireless smartphone integration
- Comprehensive EyeSight Driver Assist Technology for added safety
From school drop-offs to muddy trailheads, the Forester feels purpose-built for local drivers who need one vehicle that can do it all. Subaru’s hallmark Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive adds stability when the weather turns, the cabin offers generous space and smart storage, Wilderness spec elevates off-road readiness, and the large touchscreen simplifies everyday connectivity. Layer in EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, and you get a compact SUV designed to handle real life with reassuring ease.
Key Features of the 2026 Subaru Forester
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and 2.5-liter SUBARU BOXER Engine
Every Forester is engineered around Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and a 2.5-liter SUBARU BOXER engine, a low-mounted flat-four that helps keep weight balanced for composed handling. The drivetrain’s always-on grip supports confident acceleration on wet pavement and sure-footed control on loose surfaces. A continuously variable transmission (CVT) is tuned for smoothness and efficiency, while a dual-pinion electronic power steering rack provides easy maneuvering in parking lots and a relaxed feel at highway speeds. The combination makes daily driving near Owings Mills, MD effortless, and gives you the confidence to explore park trails or gravel backroads without second thoughts.
Wilderness Ground Clearance and Off-Road Hardware
Adventurers will appreciate how the Forester Wilderness returns with a serious hardware upgrade: 9.3 inches of ground clearance, revised suspension tuning, larger all-terrain Yokohama Geolandar tires, and improved approach, departure, and breakover angles for better obstacle clearance. A shorter final drive ratio enhances throttle response at low speed on dirt, rocks, or steep grades, and an uprated transmission cooler helps manage heat when towing or climbing. Selectable Snow/Dirt and Deep Snow/Mud drive settings tailor throttle and traction control to changing conditions. This is a thoughtfully calibrated package that transforms the Wilderness into a compact SUV that feels truly at ease beyond the pavement.
11.6-inch Touchscreen with Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
Most trims feature an 11.6-inch infotainment display with crisp graphics and a straightforward menu structure. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support reduces cord clutter and makes it easy to access maps, messages, playlists, and podcasts. An integrated wireless charging pad helps keep your phone topped up, and the system places key controls where you expect them for minimal distraction. Base models carry a dual 7.0-inch display that still incorporates smartphone integration, so every Forester driver benefits from modern connectivity. Voice commands are responsive, and the screen’s size makes at-a-glance checks quicker when navigating around town or heading out of state.
Versatile Interior Space and Thoughtful Storage
The cabin is where the Forester’s practical streak really shines. Upright windows, a generous greenhouse, and an available panoramic sunroof make the interior feel airy and open. There is plenty of head, hip, and leg room for adults in both rows. When it is time to pack, you will find up to 30 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row and as much as 75 cubic feet with the rear seats folded, enabling everything from weekly groceries to camping gear. Subaru also reworked the center console this year to add a smartphone slot, enlarge the front cupholders, expand the center armrest and storage bin, and reposition the shifter closer to the driver. Rear cupholders were upsized to hold a 32-ounce Nalgene, and revised rear seatbelt mounting enhances comfort and confidence for family riders.
EyeSight Driver Assist Technology and Active Safety
All Forester models include EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, Subaru’s camera-based safety suite designed to support alert, confident driving. Key features include automated emergency braking, lane departure warning with lane keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. These systems monitor the environment ahead to help warn you and, when appropriate, provide steering or braking support. The result is a calmer commute and extra reassurance on long highway trips. Pair EyeSight with the inherent stability of Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, and the Forester delivers a robust safety foundation that helps you feel ready for the unexpected.
5 Buying Considerations Before You Choose Your Subaru Forester
- Choose the right trim for your lifestyle
- Match capability to your terrain and towing
- Select seating and materials that fit your routine
- Prioritize the tech you will use daily
- Test drive on the roads you drive most
Start by deciding how you will use your SUV day to day. If weekend trailheads or snow days are frequent, the Wilderness trim’s 9.3 inches of ground clearance and beefier tires are a smart match. Plan to tow? Wilderness offers up to 3,500 pounds of capacity, while other trims are rated up to 1,500 pounds. Families who value easy cleanup may prefer water-repellent leatherette in Sport or Wilderness, while touring-focused drivers might gravitate to available heated and ventilated front seats. The 11.6-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto offers a seamless experience for most users. Finally, take your test drive on your real-world loop near Owings Mills, MD to evaluate visibility, ride comfort, and maneuverability where it matters.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is all-wheel drive standard on the 2026 Forester?
Yes. Every 2026 Forester includes Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. The system balances power front to rear for confident traction in rain, snow, and on gravel, and works seamlessly with the 2.5-liter SUBARU BOXER engine and CVT for smooth, predictable response.
How much can the Forester tow?
The Forester Wilderness is rated up to 3,500 pounds thanks in part to its uprated transmission cooler and shorter final drive ratio. Other 2026 Forester trims are rated up to 1,500 pounds, which is well-suited to small utility trailers, lightweight cargo carriers, or a modest pop-up.
What are the major differences in infotainment across trims?
Most trims feature an 11.6-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto plus a wireless charging pad. The base model uses a dual 7.0-inch display that still supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, so core smartphone integration is present across the lineup.
How spacious is the cargo area?
With the rear seats up, you have up to 30 cubic feet to work with, and folding the second row opens up to 75 cubic feet. The squared-off opening and low load floor make it easy to handle bulky items, luggage, or outdoor gear.
Step-by-Step Tips for Test Driving the 2026 Subaru Forester
- Map a route that includes your daily roads and a stretch of highway
- Check sightlines, seating position, and steering wheel reach
- Pair your phone to sample wireless Apple CarPlay or Android Auto
- Evaluate ride comfort over patched pavement and speed bumps
- Test low-speed control in a parking lot and perform tight U-turns
- Fold the rear seats to assess cargo loading and liftover height
- Explore drive settings and confirm safety alerts suit your preference
Driving a 2026 Subaru Forester near Owings Mills, MD on your usual route helps you assess the essentials: visibility, seat comfort, noise levels, parking ease, and how the suspension handles broken pavement. Pair your phone to confirm your apps connect smoothly on the 11.6-inch display, try a few tight turns to gauge maneuverability, and take a moment to fold the rear seats to see how the load floor and opening work with your gear. If the Wilderness is on your radar, ask our team for a short loop that includes a gravel lane to appreciate its refined low-speed control.
Why Buy from Jones Bel Air Subaru near Owings Mills, MD?
- Jones For A Lifetime benefits with a Lifetime Engine Guarantee
- Free Oil and Filter Changes and Free Car Washes
- Free MD State Inspections and 24-Hour Roadside Assistance
- Factory-trained Subaru technicians and genuine parts
- Convenient courtesy shuttle and on-site rental cars
We take pride in pairing the right vehicle with the right ownership experience. At Jones Bel Air Subaru, our Jones For A Lifetime advantages add long-term value and confidence from day one. Our factory-trained technicians, friendly service advisors, and community-focused approach make it easy to maintain your Forester on your schedule. From test drive to delivery, we are here to support you with local expertise and thoughtful care.
Next Steps
- Schedule a Forester test drive
- Bring your trade for a same-day valuation
- Complete a quick online finance application
- Select accessories and protection products
- Reserve the color and trim you want
Ready to see how the 2026 Subaru Forester near Owings Mills, MD fits your life? Set up a test drive, bring your current vehicle for an on-the-spot trade evaluation, and streamline your visit by starting your finance application online. Our team will help you compare trims, review towing and cargo needs, and dial in the tech and accessories that matter most. When you are ready, we will secure your ideal configuration and walk you through delivery day step by step.
Request More Info About the 2026 Subaru Forester near Owings Mills, MD
If you are deciding between trims, comparing capability, or sorting through technology options, our product specialists will tailor recommendations based on your daily routine, hobbies, and must-haves. The 2026 Subaru Forester blends standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, smartly updated interior details, and available Wilderness off-road upgrades into a package that feels easy to own and ready for adventure. Connect with Jones Bel Air Subaru, ask us anything, and let us arrange a personalized drive near Owings Mills, MD that covers your real-world roads. We will handle the details so you can focus on finding the right fit for your driveway and your weekend plans.
Make an Inquiry
* Indicates a required field
* Although every reasonable effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained on this site, absolute accuracy cannot be guaranteed. This site, and all information and materials appearing on it, are presented to the user "as is" without warranty of any kind, either express or implied, including but not limited to the implied warranties of merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose, title or non-infringement. All vehicles are subject to prior sale. Price does not include applicable tax, title, and license. Not responsible for typographical errors.
**The arrival timeline is an estimate. It may vary due to circumstances beyond Subaru’s or the retailer’s control.
