For three decades, the Subaru Outback has occupied a unique space in the automotive world — blending wagon practicality with SUV capability. Now, with the 2026 model, Subaru is deliberately pushing the Outback further into crossover territory. The question is: does this shift work, and what does it mean for buyers?
The Changing Face of an Icon
The biggest change for 2026 is the exterior design. Subaru has moved away from the conservative styling of the Legacy sedan (now discontinued) in favor of a bolder, more upright look. The new Outback borrows cues from the Forester, with a larger grille and rugged cladding. The design is divisive; some lament the loss of the Outback’s original wagon silhouette. However, in person, the car doesn’t appear as bulky as some photos suggest, despite a slight increase in roof height. Subaru also added plastic trim with textured patterns, dubbed ‘Shark Skin,’ which is meant to improve aerodynamics, though real-world benefits are negligible.
A Refined Interior Focus
Inside, Subaru has dramatically improved the cabin experience. The cupholders are now designed to securely hold 32-ounce bottles, and door pockets are carpet-lined to minimize rattling. The materials feel more premium, especially on higher trims where piano black surfaces have been eliminated. Most notably, physical buttons have returned for climate control and other functions after a frustrating period of touchscreen dominance. The new 12.2-inch infotainment system is simpler and faster, though early testing revealed minor glitches with X-Mode (the off-road mode) and the Eyesight driver-assist system.
Powertrain and Performance
The 2026 Outback offers two engine options: a 180-horsepower 2.5-liter flat-four and a more potent 260-horsepower turbocharged 2.4-liter. The turbo delivers a noticeable performance boost, though fuel economy dips slightly. Off-road capability remains a strong suit, with the Outback surprising many by handling rough terrain with ease, even in non-Wilderness trims. However, the suspension can feel stiff on more extreme trails.
Pricing and Value
The 2026 Outback’s pricing reflects the upgrades, starting at $36,445 for the Premium trim. The tested Limited model comes in at $43,165 (nearly fully loaded), while the top-end Touring XT reaches $49,840. The off-road-focused Wilderness model is priced at $46,445. These prices are higher than previous generations but align with competitors like the Honda CR-V Trailsport, Mazda CX-50 Meridian, Nissan Rogue Rock Creek, and Toyota RAV4 Woodland.
The Verdict
The 2026 Subaru Outback is a stronger, more refined vehicle. It has improved its interior, retained its off-road prowess, and avoided the trend of simply making cars bigger. While the new design may not appeal to everyone, the Outback remains a practical and capable crossover for outdoor enthusiasts and everyday drivers alike. Subaru has delivered a vehicle that stays true to its core audience while adapting to a changing market.
