With the love of off-roading really picking up in popularity, it seems all automakers are rolling out more capable vehicles for venturing off the pavement.
This philosophy has now trickled down into what some affectionately call the “cute-ute” segment of small crossovers. Typically known for their low price and ample cargo room, these compact crossovers are becoming more and more capable in the dirt.
We took a 2022 Subaru Forester Wilderness Edition out to the off-road test track at Eagles Canyon Raceway as a part of the Texas Auto Writers Association's Texas Truck Rodeo.
From its small and maneuverable size, peppy engine with CVT, and capable AWD system, this little Forester proved to be plenty of fun in the dirt of Texas.
What are your thoughts on this small but mighty crossover? Is it for you, or do you desire something bigger?
2022 Subaru Forester Wilderness Features:
2.5L Boxer 4-cylinder Engine
Symmetrical All-Wheel-Drive
182 Horsepower
176 lb-ft of Torque
Continuously Variable Transmission with 8-Speed Manual Mode
Dual X-Mode Drive Selectable Terrain Modes
9.2 Inches of Ground Clearance
Improved Approach/Breakover/Departure Angles (23.5/21/25.5)
3,000 lbs. of Towing Capacity
8-inch Color Touchscreen Infotainment with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
Large Sunroof
Heated StarTex Seats
Redesigned Roof Rails Rated to Carry up to 800 Pounds
Proximity Key with Push Button Start
EPA Fuel Economy 25/25/26 (city/hwy/combined)
Starting MSRP $32,820 (Wilderness)
Price as tested: $34,165
All images courtesy of Capturing the Machine.