Earlier this year when Subaru unveiled the new off-road leaning Outback Wilderness, they confirmed that more Wilderness models would follow. If you had your money on a Forester then you were spot on. Subaru of America has finally uncovered and released details of the new 2022 Subaru Forester Wilderness.

Subaru is aiming to build on their off-road presence by offering their new Subaru Wilderness sub-brand. The new Forester is the second model to join the rugged Subaru lineup. The older Forester models have already cemented their place among unconventional outdoor enthusiasts due to their expression of freedom, utility, and know-how. One can only predict an increase in its popularity with the new model.

1. 2022 Forester Wilderness Engine and Transmission

Under the hood, the Forester Wilderness packs a 2.5 liter naturally aspirated boxer engine that churns out 182 hp and 176 pound-feet of torque. 182 horses seem inadequate numbers but the motor is attached to a transmission with shorter gear ratios which provide impressive torque multiplication. In turn, you have quicker acceleration from a standing start and instant throttle response at low speeds when navigating rough terrains. You, therefore, get more torque where you need it.

2. Double the Towing Capability

The compact SUV has a towing capacity of up to 3,000 pounds and ships with a standard Trailer Stability Assist feature. A transmission oil cooler and external engine oil cooler reduce operating temperatures under heavy loads helps the car achieve this. Also, in the case where it gets too hot, the driver is warned by the oil temperature sensor fitted on the rear differential.

3. 2022 Forester Wilderness Stands Taller Than the Standard Forester

The forester stands tall at 9.2 inches of ground clearance. That is a half-inch taller than the already impressive standard Forester. Also, it has longer coil springs and shock absorbers. This increase in height provides for special tuning for an improved ride and handling performance. The extra height paired to the new bumpers allows for greater approach and departure angles. It’s quite impressive that both the departure angle and the maximum possible angle to avoid high-centering the vehicle between its front and rear axles are greater than what the Nissan Frontier Pro-4X truck offers.

4. The Wilderness is thirstier than the Base Model

The Forester Wilderness has a poor fuel economy when compared to its standard trim sibling. It earns a 28-mpg highway rating which is much lower than the 33-mpg posted by the standard Forester. This can be attributed to the revised final drive 4.11:1 in place of the base model’s 3.70:1 and a wider ratio spread for its Continuous Variable automatic Transmission. While this is ideal for driving up steep inclines and helps on trails, it comes at the expense of fuel economy.

5. The 2022 Forester Wilderness Spots a New Look Exterior

An all-new front fascia with a hexagonal front grille brings new styling to the Forester Wilderness. Also, it spots more prominent wheel arch cladding, front skid plate, unique hexagonal LED fog lights, and an anti-glare hood decal in matte-black finish. The thicker and taller plastic claddings protect the car from getting scuffed by branches and pebbles.

Above, a ladder-type roof rack with an increased load capacity to 220 pounds and can support up to 800 pounds when packed. This increase in capacity means that it allows you to pitch a larger roof tent.

6. The Forester Wilderness Comes with Metal Skid Plates to Protect the Engine

The Wilderness is fitted with a front metal skid plate that serves two functions: it protects engine vitals when navigating rocky trails and increases visibility by glinting in the sunlight. You are also provided with additional accessory plates in aluminum or steel, which you can install under the fuel tank and rear differential.

7. X-Mode with Additional Settings

Subaru claims the X-mode offers the improved capability and secure travel in slippery conditions. It is normally a one-button driving mode that adjusts throttle, transmission, torque split, and traction control for trail driving. The Wilderness comes standard with two additional settings: Snow/Dirt and Deep Snow/Mud. X-Mode acts as a virtual low-range gearbox that switches the transmission into its shorter ratio when the vehicle detects an incline at low speed and engages hill descent control which can brake individual wheels and switch on the front camera for a clear view of the road directly at the front of the car.

8. Pricing and packages

Subaru offers the Forester Wilderness with a starting price of $33,945, including destination and delivery fees. This is much higher than the base model which comes with a $26,320 sticker. However, it still costs less than the pricier top-end trim, the Touring which you can drive home for $36,420.

One package available for the Wilderness comes with the Subaru Starlink 8.0-inch Multimedia Navigation system, Harman Kardon premium sound system, and a rear power gate.

sources

https://media.subaru.com/newsrelease.do?id=1789

https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a37447887/2022-subaru-forester-wilderness-revealed/