The 2026 Outback Transforms Into an SUV and Comes with a Price Surprise | Carscoops

      The revamped model has a starting price of $34,995, with the Wilderness variant costing an additional $10,000.

      Subaru has revealed that the new Outback will begin at a price of $34,995.

      This wagon-turned-SUV comes well-equipped at the $41,715 Limited level.

      There are two engine options available, delivering outputs of 180 hp and 260 hp.

      Earlier this year, Subaru introduced the 2026 Outback, marking a significant shift as the wagon has evolved into a more boxy SUV, prominently featuring plastic body cladding. Although its aesthetic may not be the most appealing, there's an added concern as the starting price stands at $34,995 before a $1,450 destination fee.

      While this price is reasonable for a midsize crossover, it reflects a $5,000 increase, positioning the Outback between the Forester and Ascent.

      The entry-level Outback Premium begins the lineup, equipped with LED lighting, privacy glass, and 18-inch alloy wheels. Buyers can also expect features like a power liftgate, roof rails, and an acoustic windshield.

      The exterior design may not be visually striking, but the interior offers a more conventional layout, showcasing a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12.1-inch infotainment system. It also includes a ten-way power driver’s seat, dual-zone automatic climate control, and heated front seats covered in StarTex upholstery.

      For an additional $2,270, customers can opt for a package that includes GPS navigation, a wireless smartphone charger, and a heated steering wheel, along with a moonroof and rain-sensing wipers.

      Standard driver assistance systems include Advanced Adaptive Cruise Control with Lane Centering, Blind-Spot Warning with Rear Cross Traffic Warning, and Reverse Automatic Braking. Additional features comprise Automatic Emergency Steering, High Beam Assist, Emergency Lane Keep Assist, and Front Cross Traffic Braking.

      Power comes from a 2.5-liter four-cylinder boxer engine, producing 180 hp (134 kW / 183 PS) and 178 lb-ft (241 Nm) of torque. It is paired with a continuously variable transmission and an all-wheel drive system.

      Next up is the $41,715 Outback Limited, which features a slightly updated exterior with rain-sensing wipers, a moonroof, and matte black 18-inch wheels.

      The interior leans towards luxury, adding perforated leather, a heated steering wheel, and heated rear seats, as well as an eight-way power front passenger seat, wireless smartphone charger, GPS navigation, and a Harman Kardon audio system.

      The $45,395 Outback Touring enhances the offering with two-tone wheels and power folding side mirrors. This version introduces a higher-end leather-wrapped steering wheel, ventilated front seats, and a 12-way power driver’s seat, with options for Java Brown or Slate Black Nappa leather upholstery, wrapped accents, and an auto-dimming mirror with HomeLink.

      Additional features include a Surround View Monitor and an improved EyeSight system, which adds Highway Hands-Free Assist, Active Lane Change Assist, and Emergency Stop Assist with Safe Lane Selection.

      For those seeking more power, the $44,365 Outback Limited XT offers a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine delivering 260 hp (194 kW / 264 PS) and 277 lb-ft (375 Nm) of torque. This version maintains much of the Limited trim's equipment while adding larger 19-inch wheels, a dual exhaust system, and a surround view monitor.

      Similarly, the $47,995 Outback Touring XT builds on the Touring model, providing a turbocharged engine along with 19-inch wheels and a dual exhaust.

      Finally, the rugged Outback Wilderness starts at $44,995 and features a lifted suspension offering 9.5 inches (241 mm) of ground clearance, which is an increase of 0.8 inches (20 mm). This model also includes electronically controlled dampers and an updated steering system.

      Stylistically, the Wilderness stands out with unique bumpers, exclusive cladding, and anodized copper accents, along with smaller 17-inch matte black wheels fitted with Bridgestone Dueler all-terrain tires.

      This turbocharged crossover is primarily based on the Premium trim and is equipped with StarTex upholstery, heated seats, and a wireless smartphone charger. Additional highlights include copper accents, Wilderness-branded floor mats, and a Harman Kardon audio system.

      For added luxury, a $2,045 package is available, which includes a moonroof, a surround view monitor, and navigation. Customers can also choose a $4,090 package that adds Nappa leather and ventilated front seats with 12- and 8-way power adjustments.

      The 2026 Subaru Outback is expected to hit dealerships later this year, with the Wilderness variant following in early 2026. All models will be imported from Gunma, Japan.