Redesigned 2026 Subaru Outback is Larger and More SUV Than Ever
Subaru today revealed the all-new, seventh-generation 2026 Outback at the New York International Auto Show. Even the company is calling it an SUV now.
Let’s start with the design. The Outback's silhouette is taller, beefier and more rugged than before, significantly distancing the model from its wagon-like predecessors. The flat roofline features roof rails that can support static loads of up to 363 kg (800 lbs).
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The new front fascia incorporates a larger grille and a more upright bumper, the lower section of which is aero-optimized and textured for improved scratch resistance. The rear end sports a new lighting signature that visually emphasizes the height and width of the body.
And get this: for the first time ever on a Subaru, a lateral load capacity rating of up to 100 kg (220 lbs) from the sides of the crossbars allows for hanging a hammock or clothesline.
Lots of Tech
The cabin has been given a cleaner design and a number of modifications to make it more ergonomic and tech-friendly. The trunk is roomier, boasting a capacity of 980 litres with the rear seats up, and second-row occupants enjoy more space. Meanwhile, the centre console has been redesigned for increased practicality.
Comfort is also enhanced, notably with a 42-percent reduction in body roll compared to the outgoing Outback. The driver also benefits from an adjustable seat cushion to support the legs on long trips. Furthermore, the cabin is quieter as a result of additional noise-cancelling materials. In fact, Subaru claims wind noise is reduced by 10 percent thanks to aerodynamic elements integrated into the body sides and roof rails.
Up front, the 2026 Subaru Outback is equipped with an all-new 12.1-inch infotainment display and 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. The former utilizes a new, advanced processor that offers more responsiveness and customizability. Climate control functions have been moved from the touchscreen to hard-button controls below, making them easier to use in cold weather while wearing gloves. Amen. Unsurprisingly, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard.
Every Outback model is equipped with the latest-generation EyeSight technology, but for the first time on any Subaru, Emergency Stop Assist with Safe Lane Selection is available. This system activates if the driver becomes unresponsive to warnings while using Advanced Adaptive Cruise Control. Not only that, but a new, wider-angle mono camera can help spot pedestrians and cyclists sooner, while a new standard haptic-feedback steering wheel warning relays information to drivers quicker.
Revised Powertrain
Except for the Wilderness and XT models, all 2026 Subaru Outbacks get a revised 2.5-litre flat-four engine that produces 180 horsepower (-2) and 178 lb-ft of torque (+2). This is similar to the new Forester, by the way. For extra performance, the turbocharged 2.4-litre unit returns with the same 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. A Lineartronic CVT with 8-speed manual shift mode and full-time, symmetrical all-wheel drive are standard across the line.
Subaru says the AWD system has been revised to offer faster centre differential lockup for reduced wheelspin. It also incorporates steering angle data for better stability at turn-in and cornering on higher-speed roads.
Elsewhere, steering is enhanced with a version of the WRX’s dual-pinion electronic power steering rack, providing a more direct and natural steering feel with greater responsiveness. On top of that, X-MODE is enhanced for better off-road performance and can now be toggled via a switch on the steering wheel.
New Outback Wilderness is… Wild
The ultimate adventurer, though certainly not the prettiest, is the Outback Wilderness. For 2026, this model retains 9.5 inches (241 mm) of ground clearance and underbody protection but adds a more rugged exterior. Round LED hexagonal fog lights and all-terrain Bridgestone Dueler tires mounted on exclusive 17-inch matte black wheels are part of the package, too, not to mention the familiar anodized copper-finish accents inside and out.
Content is shared with the standard Outback, but once again towing capacity is increased (3,500 lbs). Approach, departure and breakover angles are all better than those of the rest of the lineup. More specifically, 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.
What else? For the first time, utility hooks are available in the Subaru Outback. These hooks can hold up to 2.7 kg (6 lbs) each, allowing the cargo space to be used for a variety of needs, including hanging clothing, gear or the cargo cover.
The 2026 Subaru Outback will offer Touring, XT Limited and XT Premier models. More information including pricing details will be released closer to launch in late 2025. The Outback Wilderness will follow early next year. That should give you time to digest the new look.
