2026 Subaru Outback Arrives Tougher, Pricier, and More Adventure-Ready
The 2026 Subaru Outback has finally been revealed in full, and it’s shaping up to be one of the most rugged and capable versions we’ve seen yet. What’s grabbing the most attention is the introduction of not one, but two Wilderness variants—models that are built specifically for adventure and serious off-road escapades. While the Outback has always had that outdoorsy personality, this new generation leans even more into that reputation.
Now, the range officially starts at $48,990 before on-road costs, and that’s already about $4800 higher than the previous base model. Five trims are coming: the standard AWD, Premium, Touring, Wilderness, and the top-spec Wilderness Apex. And just to set expectations, the Wilderness line kicks off at $59,690 before ORCs, making it a noticeable step up from the regular versions, but Subaru is clearly positioning these as halo models for buyers who want real capability, not just rugged styling.
Let’s start at the bottom of the range. The entry Outback AWD continues with a 2.5-litre petrol engine producing 137kW and 254Nm. It’s actually down 1kW compared to before, but gains a little practicality—7mm more ground clearance and an extra 8 litres of cargo space, bringing the boot to 530 litres. It’s also loaded with upgraded tech, including a 12.3-inch digital cluster, a new 12.1-inch infotainment system, wireless smartphone mirroring, heated seats, synthetic leather, and Subaru’s upgraded Eyesight system. It’s a pretty strong baseline.
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Move up to the Premium or Touring, and comfort really starts to shine. You get a bigger feature list—Nappa leather, ventilated seats, heated rear seats, a sunroof, a 12-speaker Harman Kardon system, and a 360-degree camera, among other upgrades.
But the real headline is the Wilderness models. These aren’t just cosmetic upgrades. You immediately notice the unique suspension setup, the big step up to 240mm of ground clearance, all-terrain tyres, water-repellent upholstery, and dedicated X-Mode settings designed for anything from mud to deep snow. The powertrain is also different: a 2.4-litre turbocharged boxer engine delivering 194kW and 382Nm, paired with a revised CVT. That makes the Wilderness the most powerful Subaru SUV currently offered.
For those wanting even more, the Wilderness Apex adds a sunroof, sat-nav, a surround-view camera, and the Harman Kardon audio system for an extra $3000.
Subaru says order books are now open, with the first demo units already at select dealerships. Customer deliveries are expected in the second quarter of 2026, and every model continues to be covered by Subaru’s five-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty.
So overall, the 2026 Outback lineup feels stronger, tougher, and more clearly defined than before—especially with the Wilderness sub-brand finally making its way into Australia as a serious off-road option.
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