Autoblog and Yahoo may earn commission from links in this article.The 2026 Subaru Forester in a NutshellFrom a quirky-looking station wagon on stilts to a full-on crossover, the Subaru Forester has had quite the journey over the past 29 years. It's been the company's best-selling model for decades, and it helps that it was launched right at the cusp of the crossover boom.Now in its sixth generation, the Forester was comprehensively redesigned for the 2025 model year. As with any model since the third generation, the changes are evolutionary, although it's the first time the U.S gets the hybrid model.2026 Subaru Forester Lease Deals for MayThose shopping for a Subaru Forester will be pleased to know about this month's lease deals for the crossover. It starts at just $269 for 36 months with $4,268 due at signing. That makes the Forester one of the least expensive vehicles in its class to lease this May.AdvertisementAdvertisementFor those who'd prefer the hybrid, there's an offer for that too. The Premium Hybrid model can be leased for $339 for 36 months with $4,324 due at signing. It's not quite the cheapest hybrid compact crossover to lease, but the rates are still hugely competitive. For both offers, it's $0.15 per mile for each mile over 10,000 per year. These offers are valid until June 1, 2026.Subaru2026 Subaru Forester HighlightsIf we were to throw in all the variants of the Forester, including the hybrids, there's a whopping ten to choose from. For the non-hybrid models, there are Base, Premium, Sport, Wilderness, Limited, and Touring, with prices ranging from $29,995 to $39,995. Meanwhile, for the electrified lineup, it's Premium Hybrid, Sport Hybrid, Limited Hybrid, and Touring Hybrid, with prices ranging from $34,730 to $41,545. All models come with the latest iteration of EyeSight advanced driver-assist systems, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, steering-responsive LED headlights, and roof rails.Premium models get a larger touchscreen plus a sunroof, MySubaru Connected Services, push-button start, smart key, power seats, and an all-weather package. Sport models get bronze exterior highlights and 19-inch alloys, along with blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, SI-Drive driving modes, and StarTex upholstery. The Limited gets smaller 18-inch alloys, plus leather, a power tailgate, and power seats for both front occupants.As for the Wilderness, it gets 9.3 inches of ground clearance, 17-inch alloys shod in all-terrain tires, a front-view monitor, X-Mode off-road modes, and unique interior and interior touches. The Touring gets 19-inch wheels, front and rear seat heaters, 360-degree cameras, and the DriverFocus distraction mitigation system.AdvertisementAdvertisementNon-hybrid Foresters come with the familiar 2.5-liter, four-cylinder boxer mill with 180 hp and 178 lb ft. The hybrids, on the other hand, pair the 2.5-liter boxer to a Toyota-based dual-motor arrangement that gives it a combined output of 194 hp and 199 lb-ft from the motors. All-wheel drive is, of course, standard.SubaruFinal ThoughtsSo far, the Forester has impressed critics, and it was even awarded Japan Car of the Year for 2025-2026. Does it deserve it, though? In some ways, yes, particularly the hybrid versions, but it has tough competition from the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4. Where the Forester claws back points is with its standard all-wheel drive, its generous space, and its good blend of comfort and dynamics. It's also generously equipped, so there's good value here, too. With the lease deals on offer, it's worth taking one out for a test drive.SubaruAdvertisementAdvertisementDisclaimer: This article is provided for informational purposes only. The information presented herein is based on manufacturer-provided lease offer information, which is subject to frequent change and may vary based on location, creditworthiness, and other factors. We are not a party to any lease agreements and assume no liability for the terms, conditions, availability, or accuracy of any lease offers mentioned. All terms, including but not limited to pricing, mileage allowances, and residual values, require direct verification with an authorized local OEM dealership. This article does not constitute financial advice or an endorsement of any particular lease or vehicle.This story was originally published by Autoblog on May 12, 2026, where it first appeared in the Car Buying section. Add Autoblog as a Preferred Source by clicking here.