Subaru’s Outback finally grows a spine for 2026, ditching its wagon identity crisis for full SUV swagger.
The next-gen Outback is bulking up with a taller, boxier profile that makes no apologies for its utilitarian ambitions. Split headlights and a more aggressive stance signal Subaru’s done pretending this isn’t an SUV.
More Tech, Less Nonsense
Inside, Subaru’s finally addressing its infotainment inadequacies with a proper 12.1-inch touchscreen system. Physical climate controls remain because Subaru apparently still builds cars for humans with fingers, not tech bros who enjoy stabbing at screens while hydroplaning.
The 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster offers multiple display modes, though we’ll reserve judgment until we see if any actually improve on analog clarity.
Powertrains: Same Song, Different Verse
Subaru’s sticking with the familiar:
- Base 2.5-liter four-cylinder with approximately 180 hp (yawn)
- Turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder with 260 hp and 277 lb-ft of torque (better)
- New hybrid option combining a 2.5-liter boxer with electric motors for 194 hp and 35 mpg combined
All engines remain shackled to a CVT transmission. Subaru continues its commitment to making enthusiasts sad.
Wilderness: For When REI Becomes Your Personality
The Wilderness trim returns with 9.5 inches of ground clearance for those weekend warriors who need to clear a pebble on the Whole Foods parking lot.
It adds dual-function X-MODE, skid plates, and enough plastic cladding to survive a meteor strike. Standard models make do with 8.7 inches of clearance – still more than most crossovers that never leave pavement.
Safety Tech That Watches You Like Your Ex
Upgraded EyeSight technology includes Hands-Free Driving Assistance for highways, Emergency Stop Assist, and curve speed reduction. The car now has more nannies than a royal nursery.
Price Point: Inflation Strikes Again
Expect to shell out between $35,000 and $50,000 depending on how many “lifestyle accessories” you need to validate your outdoor credentials. The Wilderness trim will command premium pricing for those Instagram-worthy adventure shots.
Subaru plans to unveil the 2026 Outback at the New York International Auto Show on April 16, 2025, with deliveries following later that year.
Let’s hope some WRX steering components actually make it fun to drive, but with that CVT still in play, we’re not holding our breath.
