Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the 2023 Subaru Forester Wilderness. This isn't your everyday soccer-mom SUV; it's the Forester that's ready to get down and dirty. If you're the type who hears "weekend adventure" and immediately starts packing, then this review is especially for you. We're talking about everything – from its rugged styling and off-road capabilities to its comfortable interior and tech features. So, buckle up and let's see what makes the 2023 Forester Wilderness a standout in the crowded compact SUV market.

What Makes the 2023 Forester Wilderness Special?

The 2023 Subaru Forester Wilderness is more than just a Forester with a lift kit and some cool badges; it's a genuinely capable off-road machine designed for adventure enthusiasts. Subaru has taken its already popular Forester and injected it with a healthy dose of ruggedness, making it a compelling choice for those who want to explore beyond the pavement. Let’s break down exactly what makes this model so special.

First and foremost, the enhanced off-road geometry immediately sets the Wilderness apart. It boasts a higher ground clearance of 9.2 inches, which is a significant increase over the standard Forester. This extra clearance allows you to confidently navigate over obstacles like rocks, ruts, and fallen logs without worrying about scraping the undercarriage. The approach, departure, and breakover angles have also been improved, further enhancing its ability to tackle challenging terrain.

Then, the revised suspension is tuned for off-road adventures. Subaru engineers have tweaked the springs and dampers to provide a more compliant ride on rough surfaces. This means that you can expect better articulation and control when crawling over uneven terrain. The upgraded suspension also helps to absorb bumps and impacts, making for a more comfortable ride, even when the going gets tough. Combine this with standard features like X-Mode with Snow/Dirt and Deep Snow/Mud settings, and you’ve got a vehicle that’s genuinely eager to explore.

Beyond its mechanical upgrades, the 2023 Forester Wilderness sports a host of visual enhancements that give it a distinctive and rugged appearance. The unique front fascia, with its hexagonal grille and prominent skid plate, immediately signals its off-road intentions. Black cladding around the wheel arches and lower body panels adds to its tough look and provides extra protection against scratches and dings. The matte-black alloy wheels and all-terrain tires not only look the part but also provide improved grip and durability on unpaved surfaces. The interior receives special treatment with water-resistant upholstery, ensuring it can withstand muddy boots and wet gear. Copper-colored accents add a touch of style and help to create a more premium feel.

Performance and Handling: On and Off the Road

When we talk about the 2023 Subaru Forester Wilderness, performance is a key factor – both on the pavement and when you venture off the beaten path. Under the hood, you'll find a familiar but reliable 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque. While this might not sound like a massive amount of power, it's perfectly adequate for most driving situations, and the engine is known for its smooth and responsive nature.

The continuously variable transmission (CVT) is specifically tuned for the Wilderness model, with revised gearing that prioritizes low-end torque. This means that you'll have plenty of pulling power when climbing steep hills or navigating tricky terrain. The CVT also features an eight-speed manual mode with paddle shifters, giving you more control over gear selection when you want it. The standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system is, of course, a cornerstone of Subaru's reputation, and it works seamlessly to distribute power to all four wheels, providing excellent traction and stability in various conditions.

On the road, the Forester Wilderness delivers a comfortable and composed ride. The steering is precise and responsive, and the suspension does a good job of absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road surface. The higher ground clearance does result in a slightly higher center of gravity, so there's a bit more body roll in corners compared to the standard Forester. However, the trade-off is well worth it for the added off-road capability. Fuel economy is reasonable for a vehicle of this type, with EPA ratings of 25 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway.

Off-road, the Forester Wilderness truly shines. The combination of increased ground clearance, revised suspension, and all-terrain tires gives it the ability to tackle some seriously challenging terrain. The X-Mode system offers two settings: Snow/Dirt and Deep Snow/Mud. These modes optimize the engine output, transmission, and stability control system to provide maximum traction in slippery conditions. The Forester Wilderness can confidently handle rocky trails, muddy ruts, and even some light snow. It's not a rock crawler, but it's far more capable than most other compact SUVs in its class.

Interior Comfort and Technology

Stepping inside the 2023 Forester Wilderness, you'll find a cabin that's both functional and comfortable, designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor adventures while still providing a pleasant driving experience. The interior isn't overly luxurious, but it's well-built and features durable materials that are easy to clean. The seats are upholstered in a water-resistant StarTex material, which is perfect for those times when you're coming back from a hike or a kayaking trip with wet or muddy gear. Copper-colored accents on the dashboard, steering wheel, and center console add a touch of visual interest and help to differentiate the Wilderness model from other Forester trims.

The front seats are supportive and offer plenty of room for drivers and passengers of all sizes. The rear seats are also comfortable, with ample legroom and headroom for adults. The Forester's boxy shape translates into excellent cargo space, with 26.9 cubic feet of room behind the rear seats and 69.1 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down. This is more than enough space for camping gear, luggage, or sporting equipment. The rear cargo area also features a durable rubber mat that's easy to clean and helps to protect the floor from scratches and spills.

In terms of technology, the 2023 Forester Wilderness comes standard with an 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system that includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The system is relatively easy to use, with clear graphics and intuitive menus. However, some users may find the touchscreen to be a bit slow to respond at times. Other standard features include a six-speaker audio system, Bluetooth connectivity, and a USB port. Optional features include a premium Harman Kardon audio system, a sunroof, and a power liftgate.

Subaru is well-known for its commitment to safety, and the Forester Wilderness is no exception. It comes standard with a suite of advanced safety features, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, lane keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. The Forester has also earned excellent crash-test scores from both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), making it a safe and reliable choice for families.

2023 Subaru Forester Wilderness: Pros and Cons

Before you make up your mind, let's summarize the pros and cons of the 2023 Subaru Forester Wilderness.

Pros:

• Excellent Off-Road Capability: The higher ground clearance, revised suspension, and all-terrain tires make it a capable off-road machine.
• Standard All-Wheel Drive: Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system provides excellent traction and stability in all conditions.
• Spacious and Practical Interior: The Forester's boxy shape translates into ample cargo space and comfortable seating for passengers.
• Durable and Water-Resistant Materials: The water-resistant upholstery and durable cargo mat are perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
• Comprehensive Safety Features: The Forester comes standard with a suite of advanced safety features and has earned excellent crash-test scores.

Cons:

• Engine Power: The 2.5-liter engine is adequate but not particularly exciting.
• CVT Transmission: Some drivers may not like the feel of the continuously variable transmission.
• Infotainment System: The touchscreen infotainment system can be a bit slow to respond at times.
• Road Noise: The all-terrain tires can generate some road noise at highway speeds.
• Fuel Economy: Fuel economy is reasonable but not class-leading.

Final Verdict: Is the 2023 Forester Wilderness Right for You?

So, is the 2023 Subaru Forester Wilderness the right SUV for you? Well, if you prioritize off-road capability, practicality, and safety, then the answer is likely yes. This is a vehicle that's designed for adventure, and it delivers on that promise. It's not the fastest or most luxurious SUV on the market, but it's incredibly capable, reliable, and well-suited for those who like to explore the great outdoors. However, if you are looking for something more luxurious and with better on-road performance, you may want to consider some other options.

Ultimately, the best way to decide if the Forester Wilderness is right for you is to take it for a test drive and see for yourself. Get behind the wheel, hit some trails, and experience what this rugged SUV has to offer. You might just find that it's the perfect vehicle for your next adventure. Happy trails, guys!