2026 Subaru Outback: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2026 Subaru Outback is fully redesigned. Its all-new seventh-generation design brings a boxier shape and a roomier, quieter, more technology-focused cabin.
About the 2026 Subaru Outback
7th generation (2026- ), first year and full redesign
Subaru positions the Outback as a do-everything family adventure SUV: easier to live with than a truck-based SUV, roomier and more rugged than many compact crossovers, and ready for bad weather or dirt roads without giving up daily comfort. Its core draw is standard AWD, useful ground clearance, strong safety technology, easy cargo flexibility, and long-trip comfort. For most shoppers, it is the practical road-trip and outdoor-life Subaru with more space and utility than a typical two-row crossover.
The Premium is now the starting point, pairing standard AWD with water-repellent upholstery, a power rear gate, and two large displays. Limited adds leather, navigation, and premium audio, while Touring focuses on comfort with Nappa leather, ventilated front seats, and hands-free highway-driving assistance. The 260-hp turbo engine powers the XT trims and the trail-focused Wilderness, which also has a raised suspension, 9.5 inches of ground clearance, and a front skid plate.
What changed, by category
2026 Subaru Outback specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, 2.5 Liter | 4-Cyl, 2.5 Liter | 4-Cyl, 2.5 Liter | 4-Cyl, Turbo, 2.4 Liter | 4-Cyl, Turbo, 2.4 Liter | 4-Cyl, Turbo, 2.4 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, CVT w/Lineartronic & 8-Spd Manual Mode | Automatic, CVT w/Lineartronic & 8-Spd Manual Mode | Automatic, CVT w/Lineartronic & 8-Spd Manual Mode | Automatic, CVT w/Lineartronic, High Torque & 8-Spd Manual Mode | Automatic, CVT w/Lineartronic, High Torque & 8-Spd Manual Mode | Automatic, CVT w/Lineartronic, High Torque & 8-Spd Manual Mode |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD | AWD | AWD | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 25 mpg | 25 mpg | 25 mpg | 21 mpg | 21 mpg | 21 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 31 mpg | 31 mpg | 31 mpg | 29 mpg | 29 mpg | 27 mpg |
| Horsepower | 180 hp | 180 hp | 180 hp | 260 hp | 260 hp | 260 hp |
| Torque | 178 lb-ft | 178 lb-ft | 178 lb-ft | 277 lb-ft | 277 lb-ft | 277 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 2700 lb | 2700 lb | 2700 lb | 3500 lb | 3500 lb | 3500 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 80.5 cu-ft | 80.5 cu-ft | 80.5 cu-ft | 80.5 cu-ft | 80.5 cu-ft | 80.5 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 39.5 in | 39.5 in | 39.5 in | 39.5 in | 39.5 in | 39.5 in |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
Frequently asked questions
Is the 2026 Subaru Outback fully redesigned?
Yes. The 2026 Outback begins the seventh generation with a new, more upright body, a redesigned cabin, more passenger and cargo space, and updated safety and display technology.
Which Outback trims were dropped for 2026?
The Base, Onyx Edition, and Onyx Edition XT trims were dropped for 2026. Premium is now the starting trim, followed by Limited, Limited XT, Touring, Touring XT, and Wilderness.
Does every 2026 Outback have the new screens?
Yes. Every 2026 Outback has a standard 12.1-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are also standard.
What safety features became standard on the 2026 Outback?
The 2026 Outback has upgraded EyeSight driver-assist hardware across the lineup. Blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic warning, and reverse automatic braking are standard on every trim.
What changed on the 2026 Outback Wilderness?
The 2026 Wilderness moves to the redesigned body and adds more cargo space, new displays, electronically controlled dampers, recalibrated dual-function X-MODE, upgraded roof-rail utility, and standard reverse automatic braking. It retains its 260-hp turbo engine, raised suspension, and 9.5 inches of ground clearance.