Subaru Forester vs Chrysler Pacifica

The 2024 Chrysler Pacifica is the last Chrysler model standing, as well as one of a shrunken contingent of North American-market minivans that also includes the Honda Odyssey, Kia Carnival, and Toyota Sienna. While it hasn’t been redesigned since its introduction as a 2017 model, the Pacifica continues with minimal changes. The only news for 2024 is a handful of new colour options.

Verdict: The Pacifica checks all of the boxes, with only small issues to detract from its overall goodness.

To create the 2026 Forester Wilderness, Subaru adds all-terrain tires, increased ground clearance, and improved angles of approach, breakover, and departure. Drivetrain modifications enhance traction, added underbody protection prevents damage when off-roading, and a full-size all-terrain spare tire is ready when you need it. Styling changes convey this model’s rugged capabilities, and Subaru outfits the interior for easy clean-up. All 2026 Forester models have a new centre console design and updated protection for rear passengers in a collision.

Note that, at the time of writing, the 2026 Subaru Forester Wilderness is not being imported into Canada due to tariffs. This review of a U.S.-spec 2026 Forester Wilderness will apply to the Canadian market when importation of this model resumes. The pricing scale above applies to the full Forester line-up; Canadian 2026 Forester Wilderness pricing has not been announced at the time of writing.

Verdict: Push the new 2026 Subaru Forester Wilderness to its limits, and you’ll be impressed by its off-roading capability. But even if you’re not planning to traverse challenging terrain, it is comforting to know that the Wilderness offers more competence than a typical crossover SUV when confronted with unexpected situations.