2026 Subaru Outback: Bigger, Bolder, and Built for More
The legendary Subaru Outback is entering its seventh generation, and the 2026 model is the most rugged and refined yet. Unveiled at the New York International Auto Show, the all-new Outback has evolved from its high-riding wagon roots to look and feel more like a full-blown SUV — and Tynan Subaru is excited to see what this means for local adventurers across Australia.
An SUV Stance with Subaru Soul
The 2026 Outback wears a boxier, more upright design that brings it in line with modern SUV styling, while staying true to the Outback spirit. The redesigned front end features a bold grille, taller roofline, and cleaner lines that improve aerodynamics while reducing cabin noise by 10%. Rugged Wilderness variants add matte black cladding, hexagonal fog lights, and distinctive copper-finish accents.
This new generation will be built exclusively in Japan, including the Wilderness edition — a change from the current model which is also manufactured in the US.
More Capability, More Comfort
Subaru’s iconic Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive is now standard across the range, and Wilderness models get new electronically controlled dampers for even greater control in tough terrain. With up to 241mm of ground clearance, the Wilderness takes off-roading up a notch — literally.
Engine options remain familiar but improved:
- 2.5L flat-four (134kW / 241Nm)
- 2.4L turbocharged flat-four (194kW / 376Nm) – exclusive to the Wilderness
Both engines are paired with a CVT featuring eight artificial gear steps for enhanced manual control.
Smarter Space Inside
Subaru has fine-tuned the interior for quietness, functionality, and comfort. There's more cargo room (980L), larger bottle holders, new cupholder positions, and updated roof rails that support up to 100kg of lateral load — perfect for hanging hammocks or drying clothes on a camping trip.
The dashboard is now home to a 12.1-inch landscape touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, powered by a faster processor. Drivers also benefit from a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster with Calm Mode and map views.
The Wilderness trim continues its adventurous theme with water-resistant StarTex upholstery, copper highlights, and exclusive all-terrain Bridgestone Dueler tyres on matte-black 17-inch wheels.
Built to Explore — and Last
The Outback’s legendary reliability is on full display as Subaru proudly states 96% of all Outbacks sold in the US over the last 10 years are still on the road — outperforming the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V.
With new low-fatigue seats, improved chassis-mounted comfort, and a more direct steering feel (thanks to WRX-derived dual-pinion steering), long trips are set to be more comfortable than ever.
Subaru has also integrated its latest EyeSight safety suite, including:
- Adaptive cruise control
- Emergency stop assist
- Front cross-traffic assist
- Lane centring
- Autonomous emergency braking
- Acceleration override assist
What This Means for Australia
While local arrival dates haven’t been confirmed, Subaru Australia says it’s excited about the global unveiling and will share more details soon. Given the popularity of the Outback — with over 10,000 sold in Australia last year — anticipation is already building at Tynan Subaru.
We can’t wait to see the 2026 Outback hit Aussie roads and trails, especially the ultra-rugged Wilderness edition, which looks set to challenge the off-road dominance of vehicles like the Ford Bronco Sport and Hyundai Santa Fe XRT.
Ready for the Next Chapter?
Whether you’re an Outback loyalist or looking to start your Subaru journey, the 2026 model is shaping up to be the most advanced, capable, and versatile yet. Keep an eye on Tynan Subaru for updates and availability — your next adventure is just around the corner.
Ensure you search the Tynan stock through our link here.
Credit: CarExpert.com.au