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The Subaru Outback, a U.S. favorite for more than 30 years, is getting its most significant redesign yet for the 2026 model year. Revealed at the 2025 New York International Auto Show, the next-generation Outback embraces a stronger SUV identity.
With bolder styling, upgraded technology, and the same trusted capability drivers rely on for outdoor adventures. This major update is designed to keep the Outback competitive in the crowded midsize crossover SUV market.
What You’ll Learn
In this guide, we will answer some important questions:
When will the 2026 Subaru Outback be available at dealerships?
What are the major design and feature changes for the 2026 model?
How much does each 2026 Outback trim cost, and what engines do they offer?
Overview
When Will the 2026 Subaru Outback Be Available?
The all-new 2026 Subaru Outback is scheduled to arrive at Subaru retailers nationwide in late 2025. The highly anticipated, off-road-focused Outback Wilderness trim is expected to follow shortly thereafter in early 2026. This generational refresh introduces new features, a more powerful stance, and a more refined overall ride experience.
Where Is the 2026 Subaru Outback Made?
The 2026 Subaru Outback for the North American market is now built in Japan. Production moved from Subaru’s Lafayette, Indiana, plant to support increased U.S. manufacturing capacity for the Forester. This shift may lead to slight changes in availability or delivery timing for many customers nationwide.
Still, Subaru’s strict global quality standards ensure the Outback continues to meet the brand’s high expectations for durability and reliability.
What Does a 2026 Subaru Outback Look Like?
The 2026 Outback moves away from its traditional station wagon shape and adopts a more upright, boxy SUV look. The new design gives it a stronger and more rugged presence. The updated styling also highlights its off-road capability.
Bolder Exterior
The front end is more upright and wider. It features new vertical headlights and a larger grille, creating a more commanding stance.
SUV Profile
A flatter roofline that is 2 inches taller helps form the new boxier shape. This change increases interior space and expands the cargo area to as much as 34.6 cubic feet behind the second row.
Adventure-Ready Features
The Outback keeps its rugged wheel arches and standard raised roof rails. The rails can support an 800-pound static load, making them strong enough for a rooftop tent or other heavy gear.
Interior Tech
Inside, the cabin has a cleaner layout. It features a new 12.1-inch Subaru Multimedia System touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™. A 12.3-inch full digital gauge cluster is also new. Subaru kept physical climate control knobs for easier everyday use.
The Outback Wilderness trim pushes the rugged look even further. It adds aggressive body cladding, anodized copper accents, and 9.5 inches of ground clearance, making it the most capable off-road version in the lineup.
How Much Is the 2026 Subaru Outback?
Subaru has announced the official Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Pricing (MSRP) for the new 2026 Outback lineup. All trims come standard with Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD).
Powertrain Options and Real-World Capability
The 2026 Outback offers two engine options tailored to different driving needs. The base 2.5-liter engine suits everyday use, while the turbocharged 2.4-liter engine in the XT and Wilderness trims provides stronger performance for drivers who want more capability.
Key Highlights:
Base 2.5L Engine: 180 horsepower and towing capability up to 2,700 pounds.
Turbo 2.4L Engine (XT & Wilderness): 260 horsepower and full 3,500-pound towing capacity.
Standard Safety: EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology for leading safety performance.
All-Weather Readiness: Symmetrical AWD and refined engineering for confidence on any surface.
Together, these features make the 2026 Outback a strong value, offering safety, capability, and versatility for everyday driving and weekend adventures.
Final Thoughts: Built for Everyday Life and Real Adventure
The 2026 Subaru Outback pushes forward with a bold redesign and upgraded capability while staying true to its dependable roots. It gives drivers a clearer path to choosing a practical, comfortable, and adventure-ready SUV that fits both daily life and weekend escapes.
Ready to Ship Your 2026 Subaru Outback?
A new Outback deserves careful, trusted transport. AmeriFreight Auto Transport has more than 20 years of experience as a top-rated auto transport broker. We match every vehicle with fully vetted carriers. We verify their FMCSA records before assigning any shipment.
Get a free, no-obligation quote today and ship with peace of mind.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Will the 2026 Outback have a new engine?
The all-new 2026 Subaru Outback will initially carry over the existing 2.5-liter and 2.4-liter turbocharged BOXER engines from the previous generation, though a hybrid version is under consideration for a later release.
What is the difference between the 2025 and 2026 Outback?
The 2026 Outback features a full redesign compared to the 2025 model, including a boxier, taller exterior, a refreshed interior with a standard 12.1-inch touchscreen, and the latest generation of EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology, which includes hands-free driving capability on select trims.
Is Outback quieter than Forester?
While Subaru does not release official noise level comparisons, many automotive reviews and owner comparisons indicate that the Outback is quieter than the Forester, primarily due to better sound insulation, a longer wheelbase, and an acoustic windshield on certain trims.
Disclaimer
All pricing, features, specifications, and release timelines for the 2026 Subaru Outback are based on current information and are subject to change. Always verify final details with an authorized Subaru retailer.
