What is the clearance on a Subaru Forester?
The typical ground clearance of a Subaru Forester is 8.7 inches (about 22 cm). The higher-clearance Forester Wilderness trim increases that to around 9.2 inches (about 234 mm). These figures apply to current-generation models, though tire size and model year can cause small variations.
Understanding ground clearance
Ground clearance is the distance from the road to the lowest point of the vehicle’s undercarriage. It influences how well the vehicle can clear obstacles, snow, and rough pavement, as well as its approach and departure angles. For most daily driving, the Forester’s 8.7 inches provides ample clearance, while the Wilderness trims push the bar higher for light off-road use.
Clearance by trim and key configurations
Below are typical ground-clearance figures for current Forester variants. Note that wheel and tire size can affect the measured clearance, and some updates may occur with model-year changes.
- Standard Subaru Forester (non-hybrid): 8.7 inches (221 mm)
- Forester Hybrid (e-Boxer): 8.7 inches (221 mm)
- Forester Wilderness: 9.2 inches (234 mm)
In everyday use, most drivers will experience sufficient clearance with the standard setup. The Wilderness variant offers a noticeable increase for those facing rough roads, deep snow, or deliberate light off-roading.
Practical implications and tips
When considering clearance, think about your typical driving environment. Higher clearance helps over obstacles but can affect ride height, handling with larger wheels, and fuel efficiency. If you frequently traverse unpaved trails or snowy rural roads, the Wilderness model is the most capable option within the Forester lineup. Always verify your tire size and wheel setup, as aftermarket changes can alter actual ground clearance from the factory specification.
Summary
The Forester standard ground clearance is 8.7 inches, with the Wilderness trim offering about 9.2 inches. Tire size, model year, and trim choice can cause small variations. For urban driving, 8.7 inches is typically sufficient, while the Wilderness provides extra clearance for tougher terrain.
