2026 Subaru Outback showcases a bolder, more rugged design

For several generations, the Subaru Outback has been recognized as a station wagon ready to tackle off-road adventures.

The recently launched seventh-generation model, coinciding with its 30th anniversary celebration, returns with a bolder appearance.

There are no details yet regarding the dimensions of this new off-road wagon.

However, the Subaru Outback is expected to offer a ground clearance of 220 mm, along with a more boxy design aimed at maximizing cabin space.

With a roofline that is 50.8 mm higher and a wider opening, the Outback’s cargo area now reaches up to 991 liters.

The front of the Outback features overlapping headlight designs and a larger grille structure, while the sides showcase more pronounced wheel arches.

The Outback’s roof rails can support a static load of up to 363 kg.

Inside the cabin, there’s a central 12.1-inch screen and a 12.3-inch digital cluster that supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

The HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) control buttons remain in a physical format located beneath the central screen.

In terms of power, the 2026 Subaru Outback maintains a 2.4-liter turbo engine that now produces 260 hp, along with an optional 2.5-liter naturally aspirated engine generating 180 hp.

Both engines are paired with a CVT transmission and come standard with Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system.

Looking for something more rugged?

The Subaru Outback is available in a Wilderness variant, which comes with several unique features.

For example, it includes a more aggressive front bumper complete with the word “SUBARU,” dull black body cladding, specific Wilderness accents, additional underbody protection, 17-inch wheels, all-terrain tires, and an electronically controlled suspension damping system.

Key off-road driving angles for the Wilderness model have also been improved compared to the standard Outback, with an approach angle of 20 degrees, a departure angle of 22.5 degrees, and a breakover angle of 21.2 degrees.

It can also tow loads of up to 1,500 kg, aided by a revised rear bumper and upgraded trailer hitch hardware.

Inside the cabin, the Outback Wilderness comes standard with water-resistant upholstery materials, with an option for ventilated Nappa leather.