Subaru has revealed the seventh-generation 2026 Subaru Outback at the 2025 New York International Auto Show, marking the model’s 30th anniversary. With more than 3 million units sold in the U.S. since its debut, the Outback remains a key player in Subaru’s lineup, known for its all-weather capability and utility.
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The 2026 Outback, set to arrive at U.S dealerships in late 2025 with other markets to follow, introduces design, technology, safety, and performance updates. It will be offered in six trims: Premium, Limited, Touring, Limited XT, Touring XT, and Wilderness.
The new Outback features a redesigned exterior with a broader, more upright front fascia, larger grille, vertically aligned headlights, and rugged body cladding for improved durability and aerodynamics. A boxier profile and flatter roofline increase cargo and interior space. Revised roof rails support up to 800 pounds when parked and 220 pounds while driving, with new markers for easier accessory installation. A first for Subaru, the crossbars now allow side loading of up to 220 pounds, which is suitable for hanging gear like hammocks.
At the rear, a steeper glass rake boosts cargo space, while an embossed SUBARU logo on the lower fascia improves aesthetics and allows easier hitch access.
Inside, the 2026 Outback adopts a cleaner dashboard layout with upgraded materials, including recycled plastic in the headliner. The infotainment system now features a 12.1-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ and a new, more responsive interface. Climate controls return to physical buttons for ease of use in cold weather. A 12.3-inch fully digital gauge cluster includes customizable views such as Calm Mode and navigation display.
Storage improvements include larger door bottle holders (up to 32 ounces), redesigned cupholders, and new storage solutions in the cargo area, including a washable, recycled-material tonneau cover.
With a 2-inch taller roof and redesigned body, the new Outback now offers 34.6 cubic feet of cargo space, two more cubic feet. A wider rear opening and taller load floor improve usability. Passenger comfort has been enhanced with more headroom and new low-fatigue seats, while lateral sway has been reduced by 42%. Sound-deadening materials in the roof and doors reduce wind noise by 10%.
Every 2026 Outback comes standard with Subaru’s latest EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology, featuring a new triple-camera setup and radar sensors. Core features include Pre-Collision Braking, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Centering, and Emergency Stop Assist. New additions include Safe Lane Selection, Pre-Curve Speed Control, and a hands-free driving assist system for highway use at speeds up to 85 mph with driver supervision.
The Outback debuts Subaru’s new Emergency Stop Assist with Safe Lane Selection. If the driver becomes unresponsive, the system can automatically move the vehicle to the shoulder, activate hazard lights, contact emergency services, and unlock doors for responders.
Two engines are available: a revised 2.5-liter naturally aspirated Boxer engine producing 180 hp and 241 Nm of torque for XT and Wilderness models and a 2.4-liter turbocharged Boxer engine with 260 hp and 375 Nm of torque. Both are mated to Subaru’s Lineartronic® CVT with 8-speed manual mode and Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive.
All Outback models include a revised X-MODE® for off-road traction, now controllable via a steering wheel switch. A dual-pinion electronic power steering rack from the WRX improves steering precision. Ground clearance remains at 8.7 inches, exceeding many larger SUVs, while select trims now offer 19-inch wheels. The Wilderness trim features 17-inch wheels with all-terrain tires.
The 2026 Subaru Outback goes on sale in late 2025. More detailed specifications and pricing will be announced closer to launch.
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