2026 Outback Transforms into an SUV, Delivering a Price Increase

2026 Subaru Outback Unveiled: A Transformation into a Boxy SUV

The new generation of Subaru's popular Outback model has been unveiled, showcasing a transformation from a wagon into a boxy SUV. The 2026 Outback will be available at dealerships later this year, with the Wilderness variant following in early 2026. All models will be imported from Gunma, Japan.

The base model, the Outback Premium, starts at $34,995 before a $1,450 destination fee. It comes equipped with LED lighting units, privacy glass, and 18-inch alloy wheels. The cabin features a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12.1-inch infotainment system. The Premium trim also includes a power liftgate, roof rails, and an acoustic windshield. For an extra $2,270, customers can opt for additional features such as GPS navigation, a wireless smartphone charger, a heated steering wheel, a moonroof, and rain-sensing wipers.

The Outback Limited, priced at $41,715, offers a revised exterior with rain-sensing wipers, a moonroof, and 18-inch wheels with a matte black finish. The cabin embraces luxury with perforated leather, a heated steering wheel, and heated rear seats. The Limited trim also includes an eight-way power front passenger seat, a wireless smartphone charger, GPS navigation, and a Harman Kardon audio system. For those seeking more power, the Outback Limited XT, starting at $47,995, features a turbocharged engine, 19-inch wheels, and a dual exhaust.

The Outback Touring, with a starting price of $45,395, includes power folding side mirrors, a fancier leather-wrapped steering wheel, ventilated front seats, and a 12-way power driver's seat. The Touring XT, starting at $47,995, offers similar features but with a turbocharged engine, 19-inch wheels, and a dual exhaust.

The Outback Wilderness, beginning at $44,995, offers a lifted suspension with 9.5 inches of ground clearance, electronically controlled dampers, and a revised steering system. It is distinguished by unique bumpers, exclusive cladding, anodized copper accents, smaller 17-inch matte black wheels, and Bridgestone Dueler all-terrain tires. The Wilderness trim also comes equipped with StarTex upholstery, heated seats, and a wireless smartphone charger. Other highlights include copper accents, Wilderness-branded floor mats, and a Harman Kardon audio system.

The top-tier Outback Touring, priced at $47,995 for the non-XT version and $49,995 for the XT, features a Surround View Monitor and an upgraded EyeSight system with Highway Hands-Free Assist, Highway Hands-Free Active Lane Change Assist, and Emergency Stop Assist with Safe Lane Selection.

The Outback, positioned between the Forester and Ascent in terms of pricing, will continue to offer the blend of practicality, comfort, and off-road capabilities that has made it a favourite among consumers. The new models maintain the production in Japan, with the exact factory producing the 2026 Outback model not explicitly mentioned, but historically significant Subaru production facilities are located in Ota, Japan.