Hey everyone! Are you ready to dive into the 2022 Subaru Forester Wilderness? This isn't your grandma's Forester, folks. Subaru has taken their already capable compact SUV and injected it with a serious dose of ruggedness, making it ready to tackle trails, explore the great outdoors, and generally make you the envy of your adventurous friends. We're talking about a vehicle designed for those who crave off-road thrills and the freedom to roam where the pavement ends. So, buckle up, because we're about to explore everything that makes the 2022 Forester Wilderness a standout in the ever-competitive SUV market. We'll cover what makes it special, from its beefed-up suspension and all-terrain tires to its unique styling and upgraded interior features. Get ready to discover if this is the perfect vehicle for your next adventure. Ready? Let's go!

Subaru Forester Wilderness: Built for Adventure

Okay, let's get down to the nitty-gritty. What exactly sets the Subaru Forester Wilderness apart from the standard Forester? The answer lies in a host of upgrades specifically designed to enhance its off-road prowess. Subaru didn't just slap on some cosmetic changes; they genuinely engineered a vehicle that can handle tougher terrain. The most significant changes are under the skin. The Wilderness boasts a lifted suspension, providing an extra 0.5 inches of ground clearance, bringing the total to a whopping 9.2 inches. This increased height allows it to clear obstacles more easily and gives you a better vantage point on the trail. That's not all, they've also upgraded the suspension components to withstand the rigors of off-road driving, improving both durability and ride quality over rough surfaces. Adding to this the all-terrain tires which are a key component. They provide superior grip on loose surfaces like dirt, gravel, and mud. These tires are larger than the standard Forester's tires and contribute to the increased ground clearance. In addition to the mechanical upgrades, the Forester Wilderness has a unique look that screams adventure. It features a redesigned front fascia with a more aggressive bumper, a front skid plate, and distinctive Wilderness badging. The matte black accents, including the wheel arch cladding and roof rails, add to the rugged aesthetic. The interior also gets some special touches, with water-resistant StarTex upholstery and unique bronze-colored accents, ready for anything you throw its way. This is not just a cosmetic upgrade, this car is fully capable. If you're looking for an SUV that can keep up with your adventurous lifestyle, the 2022 Subaru Forester Wilderness is definitely worth a look.

Performance and Capability

Alright, let's talk about what makes the Forester Wilderness tick under the hood. It’s powered by a familiar 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, which produces 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque. While the engine's power output remains the same as the standard Forester, the Wilderness is geared differently to improve its off-road performance. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) is specially tuned to take advantage of the vehicle’s increased ground clearance and the demands of off-road driving, helping it handle different terrain. Subaru's legendary Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive is, of course, standard. This system is designed to provide excellent traction in all conditions. The Wilderness version takes it a step further with an upgraded version of X-MODE, Subaru's off-road driving system. X-MODE has two settings: Snow/Dirt and Deep Snow/Mud. These settings optimize the vehicle's traction control, engine output, and transmission behavior to handle various challenging conditions. The combination of increased ground clearance, all-terrain tires, and the advanced all-wheel-drive system gives the Forester Wilderness impressive off-road capabilities. It can confidently navigate trails, climb over obstacles, and handle challenging weather conditions. The Wilderness is not going to break any speed records, but it offers a blend of on-road comfort and off-road capability that makes it a well-rounded and versatile vehicle. For those who enjoy outdoor adventures like camping, hiking, or exploring, this SUV is the perfect companion.

Design and Features

Let’s get into the details of the Subaru Forester Wilderness’s design and features, shall we? This vehicle isn't just about what's under the hood, it's also about its looks and the features that make your adventures comfortable and enjoyable. Starting with the exterior, the Wilderness stands out with its rugged and distinctive appearance. The redesigned front fascia with a more aggressive bumper and a prominent front skid plate not only enhance the visual appeal but also provide added protection when navigating challenging terrain. The matte black accents, including the wheel arch cladding, roof rails, and the anti-glare hood, give it a tough and ready-for-anything look. The Wilderness-specific badging and copper-colored accents add to its unique identity. Inside, the Forester Wilderness offers a functional and comfortable cabin. The seats are upholstered in water-resistant StarTex material, perfect for those who enjoy outdoor activities and don't want to worry about spills or muddy gear. Bronze-colored accents and Wilderness logos throughout the interior add to the vehicle's distinctive character. It also comes with the standard set of features of the base model. Infotainment is handled by a touchscreen display, which includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. The Forester Wilderness offers a host of driver-assistance features, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and pre-collision braking. The vehicle is designed to provide a comfortable and safe driving experience on both paved roads and off-road trails. With its blend of rugged design, functional features, and advanced safety technology, the 2022 Subaru Forester Wilderness is an attractive option for anyone who wants an SUV that can handle both the daily commute and weekend adventures.

Interior and Technology

Let's move inside the 2022 Subaru Forester Wilderness and talk about what makes it so special. Beyond the tough exterior, the interior of the Wilderness is designed to be both functional and comfortable, ready for whatever adventure you throw its way. The seats are covered in durable, water-resistant StarTex upholstery. This material is designed to withstand the wear and tear of outdoor adventures, making it easy to clean up after a day of hiking, camping, or exploring. The Wilderness-specific details, such as the bronze-colored accents and Wilderness logos, add a touch of personality to the cabin. The interior design strikes a balance between ruggedness and comfort. The dashboard layout is clean and user-friendly, with easy-to-reach controls. The infotainment system is centered around a touchscreen display, which includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. This allows you to easily connect your smartphone for navigation, music, and other apps. The Forester Wilderness comes equipped with Subaru's EyeSight suite of driver-assistance features, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and pre-collision braking. These features enhance safety and make the driving experience more enjoyable. The interior also offers ample cargo space. The Forester is known for its practicality, and the Wilderness continues that tradition with plenty of room for gear, groceries, or anything else you need to carry. The Wilderness is designed to make your adventures more comfortable and convenient, whether you're hitting the trails or running errands in town. The combination of durable materials, user-friendly technology, and practical features makes the 2022 Subaru Forester Wilderness a great choice for those who value both adventure and everyday usability. The technology and comfort offered is definitely a win.

Safety Features

Safety is a top priority in the 2022 Subaru Forester Wilderness, and this vehicle is packed with advanced features designed to keep you and your passengers safe on the road and off. It comes standard with Subaru's EyeSight driver-assist technology suite. This system includes a variety of safety features, such as adaptive cruise control, which helps maintain a safe distance from the vehicle ahead; lane departure warning, which alerts you if you drift out of your lane; and pre-collision braking, which can automatically apply the brakes if it detects an imminent collision. The Forester Wilderness also features a rearview camera, which aids in parking and maneuvering, and automatic high beams, which automatically dim the headlights when they detect oncoming traffic. In addition to these features, the Wilderness is equipped with multiple airbags, including front, side, and curtain airbags, to provide comprehensive protection in the event of a collision. The vehicle's structure is designed to absorb impact energy, further enhancing passenger safety. The Forester Wilderness has received excellent safety ratings from independent testing agencies. These ratings are a testament to the vehicle's commitment to safety and its ability to protect occupants in various crash scenarios. Subaru's commitment to safety is evident in the comprehensive suite of features and the vehicle's overall design. You can feel confident knowing that the 2022 Subaru Forester Wilderness is designed to provide a safe and secure driving experience, no matter where your adventures take you. Safety is key, especially when you are off-road.

Driving Experience and Off-Road Capability

Let's get down to the fun part, the driving experience and off-road capability of the 2022 Subaru Forester Wilderness. The Wilderness is designed to provide a more engaging and capable driving experience than the standard Forester. On the road, the vehicle offers a comfortable and composed ride, thanks to its upgraded suspension and all-terrain tires. The suspension absorbs bumps and imperfections in the road, providing a smooth and controlled feel. The all-terrain tires provide good grip in various conditions, enhancing both handling and stability. Where the Forester Wilderness truly shines is off-road. Its increased ground clearance, the lifted suspension, and the all-terrain tires make it capable of tackling rough terrain with ease. The vehicle's advanced all-wheel-drive system and X-MODE further enhance its off-road performance. X-MODE optimizes traction control, engine output, and transmission behavior to handle challenging conditions such as snow, mud, or deep gravel. The Wilderness can confidently navigate trails, climb over obstacles, and handle varying weather conditions. The combination of increased ground clearance, all-terrain tires, and the advanced all-wheel-drive system gives the Forester Wilderness impressive off-road capabilities. You can explore trails, camp in remote locations, and tackle challenging weather conditions with confidence. The 2022 Subaru Forester Wilderness strikes a balance between on-road comfort and off-road capability. It offers a smooth and comfortable driving experience on the pavement while providing the ruggedness and capability needed for off-road adventures. This vehicle is a great choice for those who want a versatile SUV that can handle both the daily commute and weekend excursions into the wilderness.

Pros and Cons

Alright, let’s weigh the pros and cons of the 2022 Subaru Forester Wilderness. It’s always a good idea to consider both the good and the not-so-good before making a decision, right? First, the pros: The Forester Wilderness excels in its off-road capability, with increased ground clearance, a lifted suspension, and all-terrain tires, allowing it to conquer trails and rough terrain. Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and X-MODE further enhance its off-road performance, providing excellent traction and control in various conditions. Its rugged and distinctive design sets it apart, with unique styling elements that reflect its adventurous spirit. The interior is functional and comfortable, with durable, water-resistant upholstery, making it easy to clean and ready for outdoor activities. The vehicle comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including Subaru's EyeSight driver-assist technology, providing peace of mind on the road. The Forester also offers ample cargo space and practicality, making it a versatile option for various needs. The reliability of Subaru vehicles is a huge advantage. However, there are some cons to consider. While the engine is capable, some may find the power output to be a bit underwhelming compared to some competitors. The fuel economy might be slightly lower than the standard Forester due to the off-road upgrades and all-terrain tires. The ride quality on paved roads might feel a bit firmer due to the lifted suspension and all-terrain tires. So, what’s the verdict? The 2022 Subaru Forester Wilderness is an excellent choice for those who prioritize off-road capability, rugged design, and adventure-ready features. If you are looking for a vehicle that can handle the daily commute while providing the freedom to explore off the beaten path, the Forester Wilderness is definitely worth considering. If your primary focus is on fuel efficiency or a particularly soft on-road ride, you may want to explore other options. But, if you're an adventure seeker, the pros of the Wilderness likely outweigh the cons.

Price and Trim Levels

Let's break down the price and trim levels of the 2022 Subaru Forester Wilderness. The Wilderness trim is positioned as a higher-end option within the Forester lineup, reflecting its enhanced off-road capabilities and features. The price point is typically higher than the base Forester models, but it offers a good value proposition for what you get: increased ground clearance, upgraded suspension, all-terrain tires, and unique styling. The exact MSRP can vary based on location, options, and dealer pricing. When shopping for a 2022 Subaru Forester Wilderness, it's always a good idea to check with your local dealerships for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information. There might be some add-on packages to consider, such as additional safety features, technology upgrades, or appearance enhancements. The Wilderness trim level typically comes well-equipped, with features like advanced driver-assistance systems, a touchscreen infotainment system, and unique interior and exterior styling elements. The pricing is competitive within the compact SUV market, especially considering the added off-road capabilities and rugged design. For those who enjoy outdoor adventures and exploring off-road trails, the 2022 Subaru Forester Wilderness offers a compelling package, providing a blend of capability, practicality, and value. The specific trim levels and pricing details will help you make an informed decision when considering this adventure-ready SUV.

Conclusion

So, what's the final word on the 2022 Subaru Forester Wilderness? It's a winner, guys! Subaru has created a vehicle that expertly balances on-road comfort with serious off-road prowess. If you're the type who dreams of weekend getaways, tackling muddy trails, and exploring the wilderness, then this SUV is tailor-made for you. It's got the ground clearance, the all-wheel drive, the rugged good looks, and the durable interior to handle whatever you throw at it. While it may not be the fastest car on the road, or the most fuel-efficient, it more than makes up for it with its go-anywhere attitude and adventurous spirit. The Forester Wilderness is a statement, a declaration that you're ready to embrace the outdoors and live life to the fullest. If you’re considering a compact SUV and adventure is in your DNA, the 2022 Subaru Forester Wilderness deserves a spot at the top of your list. So get out there, explore, and make some memories! Subaru has done it again with this SUV. And that’s a wrap! Happy trails, everyone!