2026 Subaru Outback Wilderness: Enhanced Capability Meets Modern Tech
Subaru's most capable Outback returns with upgraded suspension, enhanced off-road features, and advanced technology for 2026.
Subaru has unveiled the next generation of its most capable adventure vehicle at the 2025 New York International Auto Show—the all-new 2026 Outback Wilderness. Building on the success of its predecessor, this latest iteration combines enhanced off-road capability with modern technology and comfort features, setting a new standard for adventure-ready vehicles.
Enhanced Performance and Capability
The 2026 Outback Wilderness maintains its impressive 9.5 inches of ground clearance while introducing several significant performance upgrades. At its heart lies a standard turbocharged 2.4-liter SUBARU BOXER® engine, delivering 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque. This powerplant is paired with Subaru’s Lineartronic® CVT featuring an 8-speed manual shift mode and paddle shifters.
A major highlight is the introduction of electronically controlled dampers, a first for the Wilderness trim. These sophisticated dampers continuously adjust to road conditions, providing enhanced stability on rough terrain while maintaining comfort during regular driving. The system utilizes acceleration sensors to detect road and vehicle conditions, automatically adjusting damping forces in real-time.
The vehicle’s off-road credentials are further enhanced with:
- Improved approach angle of 20 degrees
- Enhanced breakover angle of 21.2 degrees
- Increased departure angle of 22.5 degrees
- Dual-function X-MODE® with Snow/Dirt and Deep Snow/Mud modes
- Bridgestone Dueler all-terrain tires on 17-inch matte black wheels
- 3,500-pound towing capacity with upgraded hitch design
Modern Interior with Rugged Functionality
Inside, the 2026 Outback Wilderness strikes a perfect balance between durability and comfort. The cabin features water-resistant StarTex® upholstery as standard, with available Nappa leather upholstery—a first for the Wilderness trim. The interior is accented with distinctive anodized copper-finish trim elements, reinforcing the model’s adventure-ready character.
Technology takes center stage with:
- New 12.1-inch Subaru Multimedia Plus system
- 12.3-inch full digital instrument cluster
- Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ integration
- Available 360-degree Surround View Monitor
- Available power moonroof and ventilated front seats
Innovative Cargo Solutions
The redesigned cargo area offers 34.6 cubic feet of space, an increase of 2 cubic feet over its predecessor. New for 2026 are innovative utility hooks that can support up to 6 pounds each, perfect for hanging gear or clothing. The cargo area features:
- Eight mounting points for utility hooks
- Multipurpose cargo cover made from 100% recycled materials
- Flexible configuration options for various storage needs
- Enhanced roof rails with measurement markers
- 800-pound static load capacity (220 pounds dynamic)
Advanced Safety Features
The 2026 Outback Wilderness comes equipped with Subaru’s latest EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology, including:
- Front Pre-Collision Braking
- Advanced Adaptive Cruise Control
- Lane Centering
- Emergency Stop Assist
- Front Cross Traffic Alert
- Lane Departure and Sway Warning
Distinctive Exterior Design
The exterior design of the 2026 Outback Wilderness emphasizes its rugged capability with:
- Aggressive front fascia with expanded bumper
- Matte black exterior accents on mirrors, side cladding, and grille
- Anodized copper-finish functional accents
- Hexagonal LED fog lights
- Enhanced underbody protection
- Exclusive wheel design with all-terrain tires
Market Position
The 2026 Subaru Outback Wilderness represents a significant evolution in the model’s capability and technology offerings. It’s positioned as the most off-road capable Outback ever, while maintaining the comfort and practicality that has made the Outback lineup a success for over three decades.
The vehicle is scheduled to arrive at Subaru retailers nationwide in early 2026, with pricing details to be announced closer to the launch date. This latest iteration of the Outback Wilderness demonstrates Subaru’s commitment to combining genuine off-road capability with modern comfort and technology.
Fun Fact: The 2026 Outback Wilderness features a new electronically controlled suspension system that can detect and adjust to changing road conditions in milliseconds, making it the most technologically advanced suspension system ever fitted to an Outback.