• With the arrival of its seventh generation, the Outback shifts more than ever into SUV territory.

• The 2026 Subaru Outback retains its powertrain lineup: a naturally aspirated 2.5L engine and a turbocharged 2.4L engine.

• The lineup includes four trims, including the Wilderness version.

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Over the years, the Subaru Outback has slowly added more SUV-like features. This new generation officially earns its SUV status. We were on-site at the New York Auto Show for the official unveiling of the 2026 Subaru Outback.

From Hatchback Roots to SUV Status

Initially launched in 1995 as a spin-off of the Legacy sedan, the Outback has always straddled the line between car and SUV. With Subaru discontinuing the Legacy after the 2024 model year, the Outback becomes a fully independent model. It also uses this new generation to firmly establish itself as an SUV between the Forester and the Ascent in Subaru’s lineup.

From a design standpoint, the 2026 Outback emphasizes ruggedness like never before. Subaru calls it the most adventure-ready model in its portfolio. The silhouette is more angular, with black plastic cladding up front, at the rear, along the rocker panels, and around the wheel arches.

Inside, the Outback benefits from a refreshed cabin. In front of the driver sits a new 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, while a 12.1-inch infotainment system dominates the dashboard’s centre. Subaru has not disclosed the source of the technology, though some clues suggest similarities with Toyota’s system.

Powertrain: Familiar Options Continue

Subaru is sticking with what works mechanically. The base engine remains a 2.5L naturally aspirated flat-four, producing 180 horsepower. Higher trims are powered by a 2.4L turbocharged flat-four engine, which delivers 260 horsepower. A continuously variable transmission (CVT) handles power delivery in both cases.

Subaru did not confirm whether a hybrid version of the new Outback will be offered, unlike the latest-generation Forester, which features electrification.

Should You Buy a 2024 Subaru Outback Onyx?

The Wilderness Edition Lives On

The 2026 Outback lineup has been streamlined and now includes four trims: Touring, XT Limited, Wilderness, and XT Premier. The Convenience, Limited, and Onyx versions have been discontinued.

Designed for adventure seekers, the 2026 Outback Wilderness has 17-inch wheels and improved approach and departure angles. It now features adaptive dampers and continues to be easily recognizable with distinctive copper accents inside and out.

Pricing and Canadian Availability

Pricing for the seventh-generation Outback will be announced at a later date.

Subaru confirmed that all Canadian-bound units will be built in Japan. The first models are expected to arrive later this year, though the Wilderness version will follow a few months later at Canadian dealerships.