It’s been 30 years since Subaru launched the Outback line and few models are more closely define a brand. So, it should come as no surprise the Japanese automaker has gone all out on the seventh-generation SUV. It makes its debut at the New York International Auto Show this week.
Today’s buyers might not even remember “Crocodile Dundee,” the fictional character from the Australian outback who helped transform the Subaru Outback into a cultural icon. But the automaker is betting the midsize SUV hasn’t lost its appeal. If anything, Subaru hopes to expand its buyer base by upgrading the off-road-oriented 2026 Outback Wilderness package.
2026 Subaru Outback: What’s New
For 2026, all versions of the Subaru Outback introduce a new styling theme. While it shouldn’t shock existing Outback fans, the new look is bit bolder, with less of a wagon-like appearance. That starts with a more upright grille and body panels.
The lower front fascia adds a more textured appearance which, Subaru claims, adds more scratch resistance. The horizontal roofline is framed by raised rails and can handle a 220-pound dynamic load and 800-pound static load — enough to support a rooftop tent. The rails have also been upgraded so they can be used for hanging a hammock or clothesline.
The cabin adopts what Subaru calls a “calmer, clean line design” that, fitting its back-to-nature image, makes use of recycled materials in a number of ways, including headliner inserts made of 12 recycled soft drink bottles.
Defying recent industry trends, Subaru gives the new Outback a number of traditional buttons, knobs, and switches. And there are enough cupholders to help keep occupants hydrated even on a drive through the Mojave, holders in the door pockets big enough to swallow 32-ounce bottles. At 34.6 cubic feet, the 2026 Outback gets 2 cubic feet more cargo space than the outgoing model.
2026 Subaru Outback Wilderness
In Wilderness trim, the Outback boasts 9.5 inches of ground clearance, nearly an inch more than the rest of the line-up. According to Subaru, “The approach angle has been extended to 20 degrees compared to 18 degrees; ramp breakover moves up to 21.2 degrees compared to 19.4 degrees; and the departure angle increases to 22.5 degrees compared to 21.4 degrees.”
Other upgrades include a ruggedized suspension with new electronically controlled dampers, Subaru’s driver-selectable X-Mode — which adapts suspension to various road and driving conditions, such as snow, mud or sand. Add 17-inch all-terrain tires, matte black side mirrors, side cladding, headlamps and an expanded front bumper.
Inside, Wilderness buyers can choose easy-to-clean StarTex upholstery — or optional Nappa leather for the first time.
Wilderness is offered with an upgraded trailer hitch with a combined four- and seven-pin connector. It also has a 3,500-pound towing capacity.
Powertrain Options
A pair of powertrain packages are available on the 2026 Subaru Outback: an updated 2.5L flat-four Boxer engine makes 180 horsepower and 178 pound-feet of torque.
The Outback XT and Wilderness trims get a 2.4L turbocharged Boxer engine rated at 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque.
Both engines are paired with a Lineartronic CVT gearbox with an eight-speed manual shift mode. All Outback models feature Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive.
Technology
Outback models are equipped with a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster and a 12.1-inch touchscreen infotainment display. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard
The SUV also features the latest version of Subaru’s EyeSight driver assistance technology which includes functions like front pre-collision braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. A number of other driver assistance functions, including Safe Lane Selection, Pre-Curve Speed Control, Highway Active Lane Change Assist and Highway Automatic Resume Assist are optional, as is the automaker’s Highway Hands Free Assist system, which can be used at speeds up to 85 mph.
2026 Subaru Outback: Pricing & Availability
Subaru said it will release final pricing closer to the 2026 Subaru Outback’s on-sale date. Current 2025 Outback pricing starts at $30,430, including delivery fees.
The eventual number could be influenced by President Donald Trump’s new tariffs on import autos and auto parts. North American versions of the Outback will continue being assembled at a Subaru plant in Indiana but, like all American-made vehicles, it still uses some foreign-made parts and components.
Most versions of the 2026 Subaru Outback will reach showrooms late that year. The Wilderness package will arrive early in 2026.
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