NHTSA // CRASH-TESTED
2026 Subaru Forester Hybrid
Federal crash-test performance, recalls, and complaints, scored into one NHTSA Safety Index.
The 2026 Subaru Forester Hybrid is a compact SUV that blends the brand's long-standing all-wheel-drive identity with electrified efficiency, targeting families and outdoor-oriented drivers who want capable, everyday transportation. It sits in one of the most competitive segments in the American market, and Subaru is clearly positioning it as a safety-forward choice for buyers who do their homework before signing.
The 2026 Subaru Forester Hybrid earns an NHTSA Safety Index of 94 out of 100, an exceptional result driven by its federal crash-test stars and its recall record. Both frontal and side crash protection reached the full 5 stars. It has 2 recalls on record, reflected in the score.
- new and teen drivers who want standard crash-avoidance tech
- urban drivers exposed to side-impact risk
Reviewers generally regard the Forester Hybrid as a well-rounded compact SUV with a composed, confidence-inspiring driving character. Most praise its practical cabin layout, comfortable ride quality, and strong standard-feature content relative to its price point. Some note that interior materials and refinement are competitive but not class-leading. The electrified powertrain tends to earn positive marks for smoothness in everyday driving.
NCAP // CRASH TESTCrash-test breakdown
Source: NHTSA NCAP, VehicleId 21698
Index breakdown
NCAP // CRASH IMAGESCrash-test images
Crash-test images are US federal government works (NHTSA / NCAP), public domain.
NHTSA // RECALLSRecall record
EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS26V436000
Risk: An incorrect GAWR label may lead to an overloaded vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Subaru will mail a new certification label to owners, free of charge. Owners may also choose to have a dealer install the new label, free of charge. Letters informing owners of the safety risk are expected to be mailed August 25, 2026. Additional letters will be mailed once the remedy is available. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRH
Reported 2026-07-07
VISIBILITY:SUN/MOON ROOF ASSEMBLY26V346000
Risk: A detached glass panel may become a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect the power moonroof glass panel for proper adhesion and, if necessary, replace the glass panel assembly, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 6, 2026. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRF-26. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov beginnin
Reported 2026-05-28
NHTSA // COMPLAINTSOwner complaints
11 owner complaints on file. These are unverified allegations reported to NHTSA.