Subaru has officially confirmed the arrival of its redesigned 2026 Outback in Australia, bringing a bolder look, enhanced technology, and a significant price jump. The seventh-generation model, first unveiled in the US earlier this year, will hit Australian showrooms in 2026 with base prices starting at $48,990 – nearly $5,000 more than the current model. This marks a notable increase, reflecting the vehicle’s extensive upgrades and repositioning within the competitive SUV market.
Redesign and Key Changes
The new Outback features a boxier, more aggressive design with a higher roofline and vertically stacked headlights. This shift away from the wagon-like aesthetic aligns with current consumer preferences for larger, more imposing SUVs. The interior has been overhauled with a prominent 12.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system, replacing the older vertical unit and offering wireless smartphone connectivity. Critically, Subaru has reintroduced physical buttons and dials for climate controls – a welcome change for many drivers.
The Outback’s chassis has been stiffened for improved off-road performance while reducing interior noise. Ground clearance has also been increased to 220mm, matching the Forester and Crosstrek. All Australian models will continue to be built in Japan, despite speculation about potential production shifts.
Performance and Trims
The standard Outback retains the familiar 2.5-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine, producing 137kW and 245Nm. However, the key addition is the launch of Subaru’s Wilderness sub-brand in Australia. The Wilderness variant boasts a 2.4-liter turbocharged engine with 194kW and 382Nm – an increase of 11kW/32Nm over the previous Outback XT.
The Wilderness also includes a 20mm ride height lift (up to 240mm), adaptive suspension, water-repellent upholstery, and a 2100kg towing capacity. The updated Outback now features Subaru’s dual-pinion steering system, promising sharper handling without sacrificing everyday comfort.
The five-variant range includes:
- Outback AWD: 18-inch wheels, automatic LED headlights, synthetic leather upholstery, and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster.
- Outback AWD Premium: Adds a heated steering wheel, powered passenger seat, and surround-view camera.
- Outback AWD Touring: Features Nappa leather upholstery, ventilated front seats, and a 12-speaker Harman Kardon sound system.
- Outback AWD Wilderness: Unique styling, 240mm ground clearance, adaptive suspension, and water-repellent upholstery.
- Outback AWD Wilderness Apex: Includes all Wilderness features plus an electric sunroof, satellite navigation, and a Harman Kardon sound system.
Safety and Technology
All 2026 Outback models will include Subaru’s updated EyeSight driver-assistance system, featuring front-side radar and a wide-angle monocular camera for enhanced safety. The Emergency Driving Stop system, previously seen on the Forester, is also included, automatically stopping the vehicle if the driver becomes unresponsive. Additional features include a driver monitoring system, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert.
The arrival of the 2026 Outback signals Subaru’s commitment to keeping its popular SUV competitive in the Australian market. The price increase reflects the significant upgrades, but the inclusion of the Wilderness trim introduces a new level of off-road capability that may appeal to adventure-minded buyers.
