The gas-powered 2026 Forester Premium is worth a look if you want an everyday SUV with useful cabin upgrades and standard all-wheel drive. Package 15 adds equipment that may matter just as much in a grocery-store parking lot as on your commute: blind-spot and rear-cross-traffic alerts, additional driver assistance and a hands-free power rear gate.
For Southern California shoppers, the decision starts with how you use your car. Here’s what the Premium includes, what the package changes and what to check in person.
Watch Jake’s Forester Premium walkthrough.
Take a closer look at the Autumn Green Metallic Forester Premium with Package 15 in Jake Smylie’s video. Use it to build your test-drive checklist, then confirm the equipment on the specific vehicle you’re considering.
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Watch the Forester Premium walkthrough on YouTube · Explore Watch a Subie
What comes standard on Premium?
The Premium already includes several features you might otherwise expect to find in an option package:
- An 11.6-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- A panoramic power moonroof
- Heated front seats, heated exterior mirrors and a windshield wiper de-icer
- A power-adjustable driver’s seat with lumbar adjustment
- Keyless access and push-button start
- X-MODE with Hill Descent Control
EyeSight is also standard, including adaptive cruise control with lane centering and pre-collision braking. These systems assist the driver; staying attentive and in control remains your responsibility.
Sources: Subaru’s 2026 Forester brochure, features and build page.
On a test drive, spend time getting the seat right. Pair your phone while parked, try the screen and check whether the controls feel comfortable to use. Those everyday interactions can matter more than a longer equipment list.
What does Package 15 add?
For the gas-powered 2026 Forester Premium, Subaru’s brochure lists OP 15 with:
- Blind-Spot Detection, Lane Change Assist and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
- Emergency Lane Keep Assist and Automatic Emergency Steering
- A hands-free power rear gate
Package or standard? These are optional additions to this trim. The moonroof, heated front seats and larger screen are already included with Premium.
Source: 2026 Forester brochure, Premium OP 15.
The alerts can help draw attention to detected traffic alongside or behind you. The foot-activated rear gate can make loading easier when your hands are full. Rear Cross-Traffic Alert does not provide the separate Reverse Automatic Braking feature, which Subaru does not offer on this gas Premium.
Engine, fuel economy and everyday space.
The gas Premium uses a 2.5-liter four-cylinder BOXER engine rated at 180 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque, paired with a continuously variable transmission and standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. Subaru lists EPA estimates of 26 mpg city and 33 mpg highway. Actual mileage varies with traffic, driving conditions and vehicle condition.
For parking and loading, the Premium measures 183.3 inches long and 72.0 inches wide excluding the mirrors. Cargo capacity is 27.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 69.1 cubic feet with them folded. Ground clearance is 8.7 inches.
Sources: Subaru’s 2026 Forester specification comparison and brochure.
Bring the items you regularly carry, whether that’s a stroller, cooler, dog crate or weekend bags. Check the fit with the front seats adjusted for the people who will actually ride with you. If garage space is tight, allow for mirrors, open doors and the raised rear gate.
Is Premium with Package 15 the right fit?
It deserves a place on your shortlist if the Premium’s cabin equipment suits you and you also want the added alerts and power rear gate. Compare the actual price difference between otherwise similar vehicles before deciding how much those additions are worth to you.
For a Carlsbad-to-San Diego commute, pay attention to seat support, visibility and how the vehicle feels on your usual type of road. For weekend trips, check the cargo opening and how easily you can load your gear. AWD still calls for suitable tires, sensible speeds and good judgment.
If you want different upholstery, more equipment or a hybrid powertrain, compare those configurations directly. Forester, Decoded is a useful next stop.
Before you choose a vehicle.
- Confirm that the window sticker identifies a 2026 gas Forester Premium with OP 15.
- Check any accessories separately from the factory package.
- Try the seating, phone connection, cargo area and rear-gate controls in person.
- Compare written quotes for the exact vehicles, including the equipment and all quoted charges.
- Ask the selling dealership to confirm current availability and final purchase terms in writing.
Quick questions.
Does every 2026 Forester Premium have blind-spot alerts?
On the gas Premium, they come with optional Package 15. Confirm the package on the vehicle’s window sticker.
Do I need Package 15 for heated seats or the 11.6-inch screen?
Both are standard on the gas Premium. Package 15 adds the equipment listed above.
Is the Forester in this guide a hybrid?
This guide covers the gas-powered Premium. The Forester gas-versus-hybrid guide can help you compare the two.
Sources & scope.
Manufacturer specifications above were checked against the linked Subaru U.S. 2026 Forester sources on October 11, 2026 (Pacific). This guide covers the gas-powered Premium with optional Package 15. Equipment and accessories shown are specific to the filmed vehicle; confirm the exact window sticker. Buying suggestions are our team’s guidance. Read our independent-operator and selling-dealership disclosures.