Leaked - New Subaru Outback And Forester Outdoor Themed Models Are Coming Next

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2022 Subaru Outback and Forester outdoor-themed models are next on Subaru’s timeline to be released. See when they are coming and what they are about.

We have heard from sources close to Subaru, new 2022 Subaru Forester and Outback outdoor-themed models are in the works. The information was leaked recently and reveals the new models will begin production spring of 2021.

If reports are accurate, the new models will be called Wilderness Edition. The Forester and Outback will be the first models to get the “Subaru Wilderness” badge, and Crosstrek will follow a year later.


Photo credit: LP Aventure

We are speculating the new Forester, and Outback Wilderness Edition models will feature larger off-road wheels, all-terrain tires, and a lift kit for extra ground clearance for more extreme off-road pursuits.

The new “Subaru Wilderness” badge will likely be more than an appearance package. Don’t be surprised if the new outdoor-themed models also come with hood light brackets with LED lights and skid plates covering the oil pan and rear differential.


Photo credit: LP Aventure

Subaru could also outfit the Forester and Outback Wilderness Editions with a top cargo basket to carry a rooftop tent and a front bumper guard for protection against rocks and tall brush on the trail.

These additions will be a compliment to Forester and Outback’s dual-function X-Mode that offers far more traction in the dirt, mud, snow, and extreme off-road situations. The off-pavement feature now comes standard on the 2021 Crosstrek Sport and Limited trims with the 2.5-liter Boxer engine.


Photo credit: LP Aventure

The 2021 Subaru Forester and Outback have long been models in the Subaru stable used by active individuals who take the SUVs on back-country adventures to go hiking, mountain biking, snowboarding, kayaking, and camping.

Subaru already infused the new Forester Sport and Outback Onyx Edition XT with a more outdoor attitude and the spirit that made the Japanese automaker the niche all-wheel-drive brand.

Subaru has been perfecting its Symmetrical all-wheel-drive system, and the next logical step is to offer new adventure-themed models. The new 2022 Subaru Forester and Outback Wilderness Edition models will keep the focus on outdoor recreation. Stay tuned.

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Denis Flierl has invested over 30 years in the automotive industry in a consulting role working with every major car brand. He is an accredited member of the Rocky Mountain Automotive Press. Check out Subaru Report where he covers all of the Japanese automaker's models. More stories can be found on the Torque News Subaru page. Follow Denis on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

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Photo credit: LP Aventure

Submitted by Russell Casey (not verified) on November 13, 2020 - 12:41PM

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Since I am not an offroad guy, not much to interest me. I would rather have the Touring model made a bit more luxurious and perhaps improve engine and handling performance. I use it just like we used to use our GM station wagons. Family vehicle.

Submitted by CoYo (not verified) on November 14, 2020 - 12:19PM

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Here in Colorado, Subaru's largest market in America, dealers have been offering aftermarket lift kits, BFG KO2 tires, upgraded shocks, and trail armor for years, and it's quite popular. No wonder Subaru wants in on that revenue stream.

Submitted by George (not verified) on November 15, 2020 - 12:40AM

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When is Subaru planning to upgrade the front suspenion for the Outback 2.5 motor for a better ride?

Submitted by Patrick Ryan (not verified) on December 19, 2020 - 4:55PM

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I hope the 2022 Outbacks have the ability to turn off the Auto Start Stop permanently. I love my 2017 Outback 3.6R and glad it does NOT have the Auto Start Stop. I have driven rental cars with Auto Start Stop and found it very annoying.

While the 2021 Outback does not provide the ability to turn auto stop off, they did a software update to the touchsreeen so you no longer have to go through multiple screens to access the on/off toggle. It is on the bottom of the home screen.

Submitted by Mike (not verified) on December 24, 2020 - 1:26PM

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The Outback Wilderness trim does exist. I believe I saw an early preview version of it. The plastic cladding now more resembles the Crosstrek and there are accented off-road features like the tow point. This was almost a year ago, and my mind isn't super fresh on it, but that's what I recall.

Submitted by Steve Newhouse (not verified) on January 6, 2021 - 11:39AM

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I am very interested in the Forester Wilderness model. Would be fantastic if it had the turbo, but not a necessity unless is significantly increased the towing capability. The Forester towing capacities have always been confusing. They should post with or without trailer brakes. In addition, I am extremely interested in EyeSight X which wasn't mentioned and is rumored to appear in Forester models next year. This full 360 degree safety monitoring would be fantastic. Have seen some Japanese videos in their Subaru sedan and would be a welcome addition to safety for older drivers.

Submitted by A Bone (not verified) on January 28, 2021 - 6:31PM

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A Subaru w KO2s are a joke. They are for people taking hi res poser pics of their perfectly clean crosstrek in winter with a roof tent on top. Depending on the price difference and build between the wilderness edition and stock I would consider adding the upgrades ala carte to a stock wagon.

Submitted by BB (not verified) on March 25, 2021 - 9:44PM

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My first Subaru was a 2001 Outback which I sold in 2017 rust free and still running well. As much as I like our 2017 Outback, I sure miss the style of the 2001 model as well as that pretty light green color. If they were to bring that color back I might consider a trade in, otherwise I'll drive this one for 17 years, too.