The Subaru Outback marks its 30th anniversary this year, demonstrating its enduring popularity since the early 1990s. To celebrate this well-deserved landmark, Subaru announced a redesigned model that will usher in the Outback’s seventh generation. Boasting an array of improvements in style and innovation both inside and out, the 2026 Outback is looking to take what made this vehicle a Subaru favorite and refine it even further. But while these changes are welcome, are they going to be enough to meet the needs of the ever-evolving SUV-buying public? For some, the new model will be an exciting upgrade, while for others, depending on their priorities, the new Outback will offer nothing to get thrilled about.
The Outback’s Engine Lineup Stays the Same for 2026
Let’s get perhaps the most disappointing aspect of the newly-designed model out of the way; there are no new changes to the engine lineup. For those looking for an upgraded boost in performance for the new year, all you’re going to find is the same engine options and performance specs. The standard engine is the 2.5L Boxer, offering 180 hp and 178 lb-ft of torque. Drivers who opt for trims like the Touring XT and Wilderness will instead get a turbocharged 2.4L Boxer engine, supplying you with 260 hp and 277 lb-ft of torque. These numbers are certainly not bad, but they’ve remained the same for years. A new engine option or a jump in performance would have been a nice way to begin the new generation. We’re hoping this will change sometime in the next few model years.
A Redesigned Exterior and Interior Are Sure to Grab Your Attention
While performance hasn’t improved for 2026, the Outback’s overall look, both inside and out, has gotten an extensive makeover. There’s been a heavy focus on the model’s exterior, with revisions made to the front fascia and body to improve aerodynamics, offer better resistance to scratches, and, of course, turn heads on the road. From a larger grille to a boxier body, this new Outback’s exterior plays on its strengths, placing a heavy emphasis on ruggedness and capability.
You can see this same level of refinement when you step into the driver’s seat, as the cabin’s layout has been improved for convenience and accessibility. There is a new 12.1-inch touchscreen with updated software, a welcome enhancement from the 2025 model’s optional 11.6-inch display. The 12.3 Digital Instrument Cluster offers a unique new feature called “Calm Mode,” which simplifies the layout to avoid any driver distractions, perfect for lengthy trips on the highway. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are now standard across the lineup, and Subaru’s new cloud-based voice recognition software adds another layer of convenience to your travels, allowing you to access everything from directions to playlists with a simple command.
The cabin has also seen some changes in size and volume, adding even more comfort and space. The roofline is two inches taller, resulting in an increased cargo capacity of 34.6 cu.ft., giving it a 2 cu.ft. bump over last year’s model. Increases in passenger space further enhance the Outback, particularly when it comes to headroom for both front and rear passengers. The interior of the Outback, from its innovative tech to its increased cabin space, is perhaps the strongest selling point of this redesigned model, and it’s easy to see why.
The 2026 Outback Is a Mixed Bag for Some But a Welcome Improvement for Others
Overall, the new seventh generation of the Subaru Outback offers a mixture of pros and cons that will depend on what you’re looking for in your next midsize SUV. What it lacks in improved performance, it makes up for in its revitalized cabin, offering a blend of comfort, convenience, and innovation. If modern tech and a spacious interior are must-haves in your next SUV, the 2026 Outback may fit these needs and possibly exceed them. However, drivers with a penchant for performance may be somewhat underwhelmed with what it brings to the table for the new model year.
