2026 Subaru Outback: Has It Lost Its Edge?

The 2026 Subaru Outback has undergone some big changes, and not everyone is convinced they’re for the better. While it’s clear that Subaru has made efforts to modernize the Outback, the question remains: Has the Outback lost what made it special in the first place?

Here’s our take.

A New Look, But at What Cost?

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The most obvious change in the 2026 Subaru Outback is its new, boxier design. Subaru seems to be following the trend of larger, more squared-off SUVs, and it’s hard to ignore the fact that the Outback has strayed pretty far from its wagon origins. The roofline is now flatter and about two inches taller, making it look more like a traditional SUV than the quirky wagon-crossover hybrid we used to know.

This design shift does come with some practical benefits. The Outback now has more headroom, which is great for taller passengers, and a bit more cargo space. But is it worth the trade-off? For those who loved the Outback’s unique blend of wagon and SUV, this new design feels like a bit of a loss. 

The charm is gone, replaced by a more generic SUV look. It almost feels like Subaru is trying too hard to fit in with the crowd, and in doing so, it has lost some of the character that made it stand out.

Performance Still Solid, But Some Misses

When it comes to performance, the 2026 Subaru Outback does have some good qualities, but it’s not without its flaws. There are two engine options: a 2.5-liter four-cylinder that offers decent power and a turbocharged 2.4-liter engine for those looking for more oomph. Both engines come with Subaru’s all-wheel-drive system, which continues to be a strength of the Outback.

However, the driving experience isn’t as exciting as it could be. The base engine, in particular, feels sluggish, and the turbocharged option doesn’t wholly make up for that with its jerky transmission. The CVT, while great for efficiency, doesn’t deliver smooth acceleration, especially when you’re trying to pick up speed quickly. For an SUV that claims to be rugged and capable, the 2026 Outback’s performance sometimes feels underwhelming.

Where the 2026 Subaru Outback Falls Short

Let’s be clear: the 2026 Subaru Outback is not a bad car by any means. It’s just… not the same. The interior is comfortable, spacious, and modern, with a prominent touchscreen and updated controls. The ride is quieter, and the cabin feels more refined than before. These are significant improvements, but they don’t exactly make the Outback feel like the exact vehicle we once loved.

And there’s the price. Starting around US$34,995, the 2026 Outback is not exactly cheap. For that price, you’d expect more power or better fuel efficiency. Some competitors offer hybrid options, or just more pep under the hood for a similar price, leaving you to wonder if Subaru has priced itself out of the sweet spot.

Key Specifications

Conclusion: The 2026 Subaru Outback May Not Be for Everyone

At the end of the day, the 2026 Subaru Outback is a much more modern vehicle, but it might have lost the magic that made it unique. The new look, while practical, feels like a compromise, and the performance isn’t as thrilling as it should be. Subaru’s decision to push the Outback into the SUV category might make sense from a business perspective, but for fans of the original Outback, it feels like a step in the wrong direction.

For those who want a reliable, comfortable, and capable SUV, the 2026 Outback is still a solid choice. But if you’re looking for the same quirky, rugged charm that the Outback used to offer, this version might leave you feeling disappointed.

Check out this comparison blog on two of the best-selling cars: the Hyundai Accent vs the Kia Pegas.

Tell us in the comments what you think of this brand-new version of Outback.

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