Subaru Wilderness models on track for Australia

The Subaru Outback Wilderness edition – and rugged offshoots of the Forester and Crosstrek with the same adventurous badge and upgrades – are a step closer to Australia.

Subaru Wilderness editions debuted in the US two years ago and for now remain exclusive to North America.

The Wilderness editions are equipped with taller suspension for additional ground clearance, knobbly tyres for better off-road grip, lightweight alloy wheels, unique body protection, and trim highlights.

Subaru Australia has previously expressed interest in the Wilderness editions however they have not been available out of Japan, (where our cars are built) and have been built exclusively in North America.

However, following the success of the Subaru Wilderness models in the US, the special editions are poised to be rolled out in other markets including Australia.

When asked for an update on Subaru Wilderness editions for the local market, the boss of Subaru Australia Blair Read told Drive: "They are definitely in the pipeline. We are working towards that."

When asked how soon the vehicles would arrive – and which model would come first – Mr Read said: "We are now working through timing and how we execute that.

"Outback is the key one we're looking at the moment, and then see what that means for Crosstrek and Forester."

When asked if Subaru Australia would adopt the Wilderness name, Mr Read said: "We will use the Wilderness name pending the final (specifications) of the vehicles. It has to be a proper Wilderness edition to be worthy of that badge."

The Subaru Wilderness package – available on the Crosstrek, Forester and Outback in the US – sits at the top of each respective model line.

In addition to the increased off-road capability, the vehicles are equipped with the most powerful engine available in each line-up and have one of the longest lists of standard equipment.