SUBARU OUTBACK

The 2026 Subaru Outback marks the beginning of its seventh generation with a complete redesign, presenting a bolder, more SUV-like appearance while retaining its wagon practicality. Here’s a summary of what you can expect:

Design and Styling:

Boxier and Taller: The new Outback features a more upright front fascia, a flatter and 2-inch higher roofline, and less sloping rear glass, contributing to a more SUV-like aesthetic.
Rugged Details: Wilderness models sport matte black exterior mirrors and cladding, restyled bumpers, hexagonal fog lights, and anodized copper-finish accents.
Improved Functionality: Standard raised roof rails now boast an impressive 800 lbs static and 220 lbs dynamic load capacity, with notches for easy crossbar alignment. They also have a lateral load capacity of up to 220 pounds for attaching things like hammocks.
Larger Cargo Area: The increased roof height contributes to a larger cargo area, offering 35 cubic feet of space, which is 2 cubic feet more than the previous model. The load floor is also wider and easier to access.

Interior and Technology:

Modernized Cabin: The interior receives a contemporary redesign with improved materials and a focus on comfort.
Digital Displays: All models feature a new standard 12.3-inch full digital gauge cluster with customizable views, including a “Calm Mode” to minimize driver distraction.
Large Infotainment Screen: A 12.1-inch landscape-oriented center touchscreen is standard, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. It boasts a faster processor for improved responsiveness.
Physical Climate Controls: A welcome change is the return of physical knobs and switches for the HVAC system, making them easier to use.
Enhanced Connectivity: The infotainment system includes cloud-based voice recognition and a hybrid navigation system combining cloud-based and onboard data.
Comfort Features: Front seats are redesigned to reduce driving fatigue and lateral sway. Base models now come with StarTex water-repellent upholstery.

Performance and Capability:

Engine Options: The 2026 Outback carries over familiar boxer engines:
- A revised 2.5-liter four-cylinder producing 180 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque.
- A 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder delivering 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque (standard on XT and Wilderness trims).
Transmission: Both engines are paired with a Lineartronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) with an 8-speed manual shift mode.
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive: Subaru’s renowned Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive remains standard across all trims.
Ground Clearance: The standard Outback offers 8.7 inches of ground clearance, while the Wilderness model boasts 9.5 inches.
X-MODE: The X-MODE system with Hill Descent Control is enhanced and now accessible via a steering wheel-mounted switch for easier adjustments. The Wilderness model also benefits from retuned X-MODE with specific settings.
Towing Capacity: The towing capacity remains at 3,500 pounds for the Wilderness trim.

Wilderness Specific Features:

Raised Suspension: The Wilderness features a raised suspension providing 9.5 inches of ground clearance and electronically controlled dampers for improved stability and control on various terrains.
All-Terrain Tires: It comes equipped with 17-inch alloy wheels with a matte black finish and all-terrain tires.
Skid Plate: An aluminum alloy front skid plate adds underbody protection.
Unique Styling: Distinct exterior and interior accents, including anodized copper finishes and water-resistant upholstery, set the Wilderness apart.
360-Degree Camera: A surround-view monitor is available, enhancing visibility during off-road maneuvers.

In summary, the 2026 Subaru Outback represents a significant step forward with a more assertive SUV design, a more refined and technologically advanced interior, and continued focus on Subaru’s core strengths of safety and all-weather capability, especially highlighted in the Wilderness model.