Review and specifications
2026 Subaru Outback
The Subaru Outback has grown from an adventure-inspired wagon into a full-fledged SUV. The new look adds cargo space and headroom, although ground clearance remains the same on most models. It now sits between the Forester and Ascent. A 180-hp, 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine is standard, while the more powerful XT and rugged-looking Wilderness models get a turbocharged 2.4-liter turbo four that’s good for 260 horsepower. Roof rails are standard. An updated infotainment system and controls incorporate easier-to-use buttons and knobs instead of full touchscreens, and active safety systems have been enhanced with new features, including an emergency stop feature that can pull the car over if the driver is unresponsive.
- Market value
- $37,363
- Fuel
- Conventional
- Transmission
- Automatic
- Seats
- 5
At a glance
Model data
Overview
- Powertrain
- Conventional
- Body style
- 4-door SUV
- Drive type
- AWD
- Transmission
- CVT
- Category
- Midsized SUVs
- Generation began
- 2026
Pricing
- Current retail median
- $37,363
- Retail value range
- $31,650 - $39,800
- Original MSRP range
- $34,995 - $47,995
- Trade-in range
- $29,725 - $37,945
Ratings
- Reliability
- 3/5
Road tests
- Test status
- Not Tested
Dimensions
- Length
- 192 in
- Width
- 74 in
- Height
- 68 in
- Wheelbase
- 108 in
- Weight
- 3,800 lb
- Towing capacity
- 3,500 lb
Interior
- Seating
- 5 people
Environmental impact
- SmartWay
- No
Brand context
About Subaru
Subaru is known for no-nonsense SUVs with standard full-time all-wheel drive. Its cars frequently rank near the top of Consumer Reports’ Owner Satisfaction and reliability ratings, making some used Subarus a good choice. Along with all-wheel drive, Subarus are known for using a “boxer” style four-cylinder engine with opposing pistons that move horizontally. The design reduces vibration and gives the vehicle a low center of gravity. No Subaru would be considered luxurious, but most have options like heated seats and leather upholstery. Unfortunately, blind spot warning (BSW) and rear cross traffic warning (RCTW) are often optional, so buyers must pay extra for important safety features. Subaru hasn’t offered a hybrid since the plug-in hybrid Crosstrek was discontinued in 2024. The Solterra, a pure EV based on the Toyota bZ4x, charges slowly and has short range. Popular sports cars like the WRX and BR-Z show the brand’s wilder side.
Vehicle ID: 36283 First published: April 16, 2025 Updated: December 4, 2025
Values may vary by trim, options, location, and market conditions.