For more than four decades, the Subaru Outback has blended off-road ruggedness with everyday wagon versatility. But things are shifting with the seventh-generation model arriving for 2026. The new Outback SUV looks and feels more like a full-on SUV than ever before, but don鈥檛 worry, longtime fans: The 2026 Subaru Outback is only 0.2 inch longer and 1.4 inches taller than the outgoing 2025 model, so it鈥檚 still very much the Outback you know.
The visual trick comes from the straighter, more upright lines. The boxier shape, slim headlights, and sharp daytime running lights give it an SUV-like presence, but make no mistake, the Outback鈥檚 blend of ruggedness and comfort is better than ever. The updated design brings a fresh dose of cool styling, a more refined interior, and plusher ride quality. We tested the Outback on rough trails and winding roads around Sedona, Arizona, and came away impressed with how well Subaru evolved this all-terrain wagon-turned-SUV.
Cabin Gets Welcomed ImprovementsWhile the exterior redesign makes the 2026 Subaru Outback look more like an SUV, the interior updates make it feel more refined and upscale. This is where new owners will notice the biggest improvements. Gone is the old vertical infotainment screen; in its place sits a sleek 12.1-inch horizontal display featuring a revamped infotainment system that now supports full-screen Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, both standard across the lineup.
For those who missed the presence of physical controls, Subaru listened. The 2026 Outback brings back two rows of hard buttons for HVAC functions, including fan speed, control for the heated and ventilated seats, and a pair of cabin temperature knobs. Also new is a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster capable of displaying nigation directly from CarPlay or Android Auto. It鈥檚 a big step up from the aging analog setup in previous models, adding a modern, tech-forward touch to one of Subaru鈥檚 most popular models.
One area where the 2026 Subaru Outback could use a little polish is interior material quality, especially on lower-trim versions. We spent time in both an Outback Limited (starting at $43,165) and the range-topping Outback Touring XT (from $49,445), and the difference was immediately noticeable. In the Limited trim, parts of the door panels and dashboard are covered in cloth, which is a bit underwhelming for a vehicle in this price range. Step up to the Touring XT, though, and those same surfaces are wrapped in faux Nappa leather that looks and feels far more premium. The contrast highlights how much Subaru鈥檚 choice of materials can change the cabin鈥檚 overall feel.
The Outback鈥檚 cargo area is full of clever storage solutions and thoughtful touches. It鈥檚 packed with cubbies and cutouts designed to hold various Subaru accessories, including a redesigned cargo cover that serves multiple purposes. It can function as a traditional cover, a divider to keep items in place, or even as a protective mat for pets, and the best part is, it鈥檚 completely washable. Behind the rear seats, the Outback offers 34.6 cubic feet of cargo space, expanding to a generous 80.5 cubic feet with the second row folded flat.
Behind the WheelUnder the hood, the 2026 Subaru Outback remains recognizable. The 2.5-liter boxer engine returns, now producing 180 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque; that鈥檚 two ponies less but two lb-ft more than before. For those cring more punch, the 2.4-liter turbocharged boxer engine carries over unchanged, continuing to deliver 260 hp and 277 lb-ft.
Both engines are paired with Subaru鈥檚 standard all-wheel-drive system and a CVT automatic. While most drivers will find the latter鈥檚 performance adequate for daily use, we noticed a pronounced whine when accelerating from a stop or merging onto freeways. We鈥檝e long thought the base 2.5-liter engine could use more muscle, and unfortunately that hasn鈥檛 changed for 2026. Power delivery in non-turbo models still feels strained, especially when passing at highway speeds or climbing steep grades. Thankfully, Subaru continues to offer the 2.4-liter turbo engine, and we found it to be smooth and confident in its performance. Still, we wish the base engine had just a bit more pep to match the rest of the Outback鈥檚 refinement.
Those nitpicks aside, the 2026 Subaru Outback is still one of the most comfortable SUVs in its class. Our drive south from Sedona took us along twisty mountain roads and wide-open freeways, where we were impressed by the Outback鈥檚 quiet cabin and refined ride quality. Subaru added extra sound-deadening materials throughout the interior, and the results are noticeable. Wind and tire noise are managed well, even at higher speeds. The suspension is also recalibrated for smoother damping. The previous model already rode well, but the 2026 Outback feels even more composed and cushioned, delivering a plush, near-luxury ride that stands out among midsize crossovers.
Our route also included long off-road trails that climbed nearly 4,000 feet from our starting point, and the Outback handled the elevation and terrain with ease. The paths varied from smooth fire roads to rocky sections, yet the Subaru remained composed and comfortable. We did worry about the risk of a flat tire, as our test vehicle was fitted with all-season rubber, and some of the rocks looked sharp, but everyone in our group made it through without issue. The vehicle鈥檚 8.7 inches of ground clearance makes a real difference when the pement ends. We didn鈥檛 get the chance to test the Outback Wilderness this time, but we鈥檙e eager to see how its extra clearance (9.5 inches) and all-terrain tires perform in tougher conditions.
Is the 2026 Subaru Outback Worth It?There鈥檚 no question about it: The 2026 Subaru Outback is the best version yet. Subaru made meaningful updates to the interior, exterior, and overall ride quality, keeping its adventure wagon fresh and competitive in a crowded SUV market. Most important, the automaker listened to its loyal owners. By addressing feedback on comfort, tech, and refinement, Subaru fine-tuned one of its most popular models to deliver exactly what Outback fans he asked for. Subaru鈥檚 EyeSight safety package is standard across the board, too. And yes, it will still yell at you annoyingly when your eyes are only slightly off the road.
Prices for the 2026 Subaru Outback he climbed compared to the 2025 model, but that鈥檚 largely because Subaru dropped the base trim from the lineup. The new entry point is the Outback Premium, which starts at $36,445; the fully loaded Outback Touring XT tops the range at $49,445. Despite the higher starting prices, the added features, updated tech, and improved ride quality make the 2026 model worth the stretch鈥攅nough so that longtime owners might be tempted to trade in their older Outbacks for this thoroughly refreshed version.
2026 Subaru Outback Specifications
BASE PRICE
$36,445-$49,445
LAYOUT
Front-engine, AWD, 5-pass, 4-door wagon
ENGINE
2.5L/180-hp/178-lb-ft direct-injected DOHC 16-valve flat-4; 2.4L/260-hp/277-lb-ft turbo DOHC 16-valve flat-4
TRANSMISSION
Cont variable
CURB WEIGHT
3,950 (mfr est)
WHEELBASE
108.1 in
L x W x H
191.7 x 74.0 x 67.5 in
0-60 MPH
6.5-8.5 sec (mfr est)
EPA CITY/HWY/COMB FUEL ECON
21-25/27-31/23-27
EPA RANGE, COMB
414-486 miles
ON SALE
Now