Subaru's Latest Outback Faces Intense Criticism Online | Carscoops

      Critics have compared the revamped 2026 Outback to Hyundai's unattractive Tasman truck and the National Lampoon's Family Truckster.

      Six hours ago, by Chris Chilton

      Car enthusiasts are expressing their discontent over Subaru's design of the 2026 Outback.

      The new model features a significantly squarer shape, particularly glaring in the rugged Wilderness trim.

      Commenters mocked the fender flares and shared images of the Family Truckster.

      Subaru introduced the all-new 2026 Outback at the New York Auto Show, and it’s safe to say the reception has been overwhelmingly negative, according to the feedback.

      In a manner similar to the Forester's update for 2025, Subaru seems to have transformed the Outback wagon into a standard SUV. This shift alone has left many Subaru fans frustrated, feeling that the company is abandoning its niche of wagon enthusiasts.

      Related: New Subaru Outback Finally Emerges as an SUV

      However, the most significant source of criticism stems from the design itself. The Forester faced backlash for resembling a Toyota RAV4 masquerading as a Ford Explorer, but the Outback's design is even more disappointing. It appears awkward and gives the impression that Subaru is desperately trying to one-up its rivals in toughness.

      Numerous commenters on our story about the reveal shared images of Clark Griswald's Wagon Queen Family Truckster from the classic National Lampoon's Vacation film, highlighting the clear similarities, even though the Truckster was indeed a traditional wagon—a category Subaru seems eager to abandon.

      Others highlighted the unappealing fender flares, likening them to those on Kia's Tasman, which has been labeled an unattractive pickup truck. Commenters collectively expressed their disapproval of the Wilderness model, which looks even harsher and resembles a poor imitation of an American SUV.

      One user on Subaru's Instagram remarked, "The Pontiac Aztec is gradually making a comeback." Another questioned, "If no one liked the Forester redesign, why turn the Outback into the Forester?"

      Some criticisms extended beyond the exterior to the features within the vehicle. Many wondered why the 12.1-inch touchscreen is square instead of rectangular, and why the drivetrain options have become even less appealing than last year’s. To summarize, the naturally aspirated base engine has been reduced by 2 hp (2 PS) to a mere 180 hp (183 PS), while the available turbocharged 2.5 engine remains unchanged at 260 hp (264 PS). There are no hybrid options available.

      Not all comments were negative, however. Some praised the abundance of physical buttons on the dashboard, and one commenter, CarMark, found some rationale in Subaru’s approach.

      “Criticize all you want; they encountered similar flak with the Forester's release, and it just had its best March and Q1 ever,” he noted. “Aside from a few styling issues, I would still consider one, and it still appeals to me as more wagon-like than a full-blown SUV.”