The recently revealed 2026 Subaru Outback represents a significant shift in design, moving away from its traditional wagon shape to a more angular, boxy SUV aesthetic, complete with an abundance of plastic body cladding. This bold new look is not the only notable change, as the starting price has also seen a substantial increase. The entry-level model now begins at $34,995, plus a $1,450 destination fee, marking a $5,000 jump over its predecessor. This price hike positions the Outback between the smaller Forester and the larger Ascent in Subaru’s lineup.
The base Outback Premium trim, which kicks off the model line, comes equipped with a variety of standard features. On the exterior, it includes LED lighting, privacy glass, 18-inch alloy wheels, a power liftgate, roof rails, and an acoustic windshield designed to reduce cabin noise. While its exterior design might be polarizing, the interior is more conventional and offers a host of modern technology and comfort features. The cabin is centered around a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12.1-inch infotainment system. Standard comforts include a ten-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, dual-zone automatic climate control, and heated front seats upholstered in Subaru’s durable StarTex material. For an additional $2,270, buyers can opt for a package that adds GPS navigation, a wireless smartphone charger, a heated steering wheel, a moonroof, and rain-sensing wipers.
In terms of safety, the Outback Premium is well-appointed with a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance technologies. This includes Advanced Adaptive Cruise Control with Lane Centering, Blind-Spot Warning with Rear Cross Traffic Warning, and Reverse Automatic Braking. Other standard features are Automatic Emergency Steering, High Beam Assist, Emergency Lane Keep Assist, and Front Cross Traffic Braking. Power for this trim comes from a 2.5-liter four-cylinder boxer engine that produces 180 horsepower and 241 Nm of torque. It's paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and Subaru’s symmetrical all-wheel-drive system.
Stepping up to the Outback Limited, priced at $41,715, brings minor exterior tweaks like rain-sensing wipers and a moonroof, along with 18-inch matte black wheels. Inside, the focus shifts to a more premium feel with perforated leather upholstery, a heated steering wheel, and heated rear seats. The front passenger seat gains eight-way power adjustment, and the vehicle also includes a wireless smartphone charger, GPS navigation, and a high-quality Harman Kardon audio system.
The top-tier Outback Touring starts at $45,395 and builds on the Limited trim with features like two-tone wheels, power-folding side mirrors, a luxurious leather-wrapped steering wheel, and ventilated front seats. The driver’s seat offers 12-way power adjustment, and the cabin is adorned with either Java Brown or Slate Black Nappa leather upholstery. This trim also includes a Surround View Monitor and an enhanced EyeSight system that adds advanced functions such as Highway Hands-Free Assist, Highway Hands-Free Active Lane Change Assist, and Emergency Stop Assist with Safe Lane Selection.
For customers seeking more performance, the Outback Limited XT and Outback Touring XT are available. The Limited XT, starting at $44,365, is powered by a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers a more robust 260 horsepower and 375 Nm of torque. This version mirrors the Limited trim’s equipment but adds larger 19-inch wheels, a dual exhaust, and a surround-view monitor. The Touring XT, at $47,995, combines the turbocharged engine with the luxurious features of the Touring trim, also including 19-inch wheels and a dual exhaust.
Finally, the rugged Outback Wilderness stands out from the lineup with its off-road-oriented features. Starting at $44,995, it boasts a lifted suspension that increases ground clearance by 20 mm to a total of 241 mm. It also features electronically controlled dampers and a revised steering system. Visually, the Wilderness is distinguished by unique bumpers, exclusive body cladding, and anodized copper accents. It rides on smaller 17-inch matte black wheels fitted with Bridgestone Dueler all-terrain tires. The interior is loosely based on the Premium trim, offering StarTex upholstery, heated seats, and a wireless smartphone charger, along with copper accents and Wilderness-branded floor mats. A Harman Kardon audio system is also standard.
For added luxury, the Wilderness trim offers two optional packages. A $2,045 package includes a moonroof, surround view monitor, and navigation. A more comprehensive $4,090 package adds all of those features plus Nappa leather and ventilated front seats with 12- and 8-way power adjustment.
The 2026 Subaru Outback is set to arrive at dealerships later this year, with the rugged Wilderness model following in early 2026. All models will be imported from Gunma, Japan.