2026 Subaru Outback: Spy Photos Tease a Bold New Look

Mystery surrounds a recently surfaced spy photo of an upcoming Subaru vehicle, believed to be the next-generation 2026 Subaru Outback. Spotted testing on U.S. roads, this camouflaged prototype has ignited speculation about a potential boxier, taller makeover for Subaru’s popular adventure wagon.

The spy shot, originally posted on Reddit, showcases a vehicle wrapped in camouflage, with a design distinctly different from any current Subaru model. With its blocky shape, low roofline, and rugged features, many believe this is our first look at the future of the Subaru Outback, which could debut next year.

A Boxier Design Language

The prototype sports a blockier, more SUV-like shape, contrasting with the sleeker wagon design of the current Outback. Some speculate that the vehicle borrows styling cues from other prominent SUVs, such as the Toyota LandCruiser Prado and Kia Telluride, while still maintaining elements from Subaru’s current range. The tail-lights and door handles seem to resemble those of the latest Forester, but the taller, chunkier wheel arches and larger side windows hint at a bolder design shift.

Reddit users, who claim to be Subaru dealership employees, suggest that the new Outback was shown at a dealer conference in Las Vegas earlier this year. According to these sources, the prototype displayed there had more SUV-esque styling, signaling a significant departure from the original concept of the Outback, which started as a raised Liberty wagon.

What to Expect Inside

The 2026 Outback is expected to bring an interior overhaul, with rumors pointing to a new horizontal infotainment screen layout, replacing the portrait-style touchscreen seen in today’s models. Dealers who claim to have seen the new model suggest that Subaru may be going back to basics with more physical buttons, including the return of traditional air-conditioning dials. In addition, a digital instrument cluster could debut, adding a modern touch to the redesigned cabin.

Under the Hood: Familiar Engines and Hybrid Speculation

While there’s no confirmation yet on the powertrain options, it’s possible that the current 2.5-litre non-turbo and 2.4-litre turbo four-cylinder ‘boxer’ engines could carry over. However, with Subaru preparing to introduce a hybrid Forester next year, incorporating Toyota’s hybrid technology, there’s growing speculation that a hybrid Outback could be on the horizon. This would make the Outback a more eco-friendly option without sacrificing its signature off-road capability.

When Can We Expect the 2026 Subaru Outback?

The new Outback is expected to debut as a 2026 model in the U.S., with a potential global reveal in the next nine months. However, the Australian launch may not happen until 2026 or 2027, as Australian Outbacks are produced in Japan and tend to follow a delayed release cycle compared to their U.S. counterparts.

For now, Subaru fans can only speculate on what’s next for the beloved Outback, but if these spy photos are any indication, the next chapter for this rugged adventure vehicle will be more SUV-like than ever before. Stay tuned for more details as Subaru gears up for what could be an exciting new era for the Outback.