The 2026 Subaru Outback Appears as SUV-like as a Wagon Can Be

      Kyle Cheromcha

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      The Subaru Outback has maintained its status as one of the few wagons left in the United States. As the nameplate moves into its seventh generation and marks 30 years in the market, it will present a changed appearance. The new 2026 Outback has a more upright, boxy shape, resembling an SUV more than its predecessor, the long-roof Legacy. It features a rugged exterior, increased interior space, and an expanded list of available technology. The Wilderness trim is making a return for adventure enthusiasts.

      Unveiled at the 2025 New York Auto Show, the 2026 Outback is bound to attract attention, though it's unclear whether the reactions will be positive or negative. The vehicle is notably more robust than the current generation, showcasing a taller front end with split headlights and an enlarged grille. It is adorned with plastic cladding that features various rugged designs, such as trapezoids and hexagons. The rear light bar emphasizes the vehicle's width.

      While promotional images often depict higher-end trims, Subaru notes that the roof rails shown are standard across all models and have an 800-pound static load capacity (meaning while parked, such as for a roof tent). The load capacity while in motion is 200 pounds.

      Inside, the Outback's design seems to be leaning more toward an analog aesthetic. It includes a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a more rectangular 12.1-inch touchscreen running on a new, quicker infotainment system that gives a contemporary feel. However, the climate control system has a retro-styled monochrome LCD strip, flanked by physical buttons and dials. Regardless of appearance, this change is expected to be welcomed by Outback owners for the ease of adjusting heating and cooling while wearing gloves. The large instrument cluster can also be set to a new “calm” mode to minimize distractions.

      There’s increased spaciousness for passengers and cargo as well. The trunk space is now 34.6 cubic feet, up by two cubic feet from the current model, and passengers benefit from additional headroom, regardless of their seating row. Subaru also indicates a 10% reduction in wind noise, achieved by redesigning the cladding and roof rails for better aerodynamics, along with additional sound-dampening materials to enhance cabin quietness.

      Subaru's highly regarded EyeSight suite of electronic driving aids comes standard, featuring adaptive cruise control, lane centering, lane sway warning, and emergency stop assist, using a wider-angle camera for earlier pedestrian detection. The Highway Hands Free Assist system, operational at speeds up to 85 mph, allows drivers to take both hands off the wheel under specific conditions on designated highways, though it doesn’t render the wagon autonomous.

      One area that remains largely consistent with the previous generation is the drivetrain. The powertrain consists of a 2.5-liter flat-four engine generating 180 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque, transmitted to all four wheels through a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and Subaru’s symmetrical all-wheel-drive system. For reference, the current Outback’s 2.5-liter engine produces 182 hp and 176 lb-ft of torque. While Subaru mentions that the engine has been modified, it has refrained from providing detailed information. For those seeking enhanced power, a turbocharged 2.4-liter flat-four engine is available, producing 260 hp and 277 lb-ft (figures also unchanged from 2025), but like the base engine, it is paired with a CVT.

      Subaru has not yet disclosed whether a hybrid option will be available. While nothing is confirmed, it wouldn’t be surprising to see one in the future.

      Driving dynamics have not traditionally been a standout feature of the Outback, but that may change for 2026. The new model incorporates a version of the WRX's electronic power steering rack, which Subaru claims enhances the steering feel to be more direct and natural. Additionally, the wagon retains its off-road capabilities, with all trims featuring 8.7 inches of ground clearance, making it almost an inch taller than a Chevrolet Tahoe.

      The 2026 Subaru Outback is slated to arrive at dealerships alongside the new Forester in late 2025, although the Wilderness model is expected to launch in early 2026. At launch, consumers can choose from six trim levels: Premium, Limited, Touring, Limited XT, Touring XT, and Wilderness. Pricing details and a complete specification set will be revealed closer to the new wagon's release date.

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