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Subaru brings the 2026 Outback and Wilderness to Australia
Subaru has launched the all-new, seventh-generation 2026 Outback in Australia, introducing the hardier Wilderness variant and offering its exclusive 2.4-litre turbocharged Boxer engine locally. The new Outback marks a clear shift from the high-riding station wagon roots of earlier generations toward a more conventional, purpose-built crossover SUV with a tougher, boxier design tuned for outdoor life.
Key features and technology
The 2026 Outback pushes technology and comfort forward. Highlights include a wide 12.1-inch horizontal infotainment touchscreen — redesigned for faster processing and an improved widget layout — alongside a standard 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are supported, and practical hardware switches remain for climate control and functions such as Auto Vehicle Hold.
Top-spec models add premium touches: Harman Kardon 12-speaker audio, Nappa leather-accented trim on Touring grades, while the Wilderness receives hard-wearing hydrophobic synthetic leather with an anti-slip embossed finish ideal for muddy boots and wet gear.
On-road tech and driver assistance
The new Outback comes with Subaru’s latest EyeSight driver assist suite and a standard Driver Monitoring System (DMS). Higher trims gain advanced features such as the Emergency Driving Stop System, Acceleration Override Assist and Active Lane Change Assist — positioning the Outback as both a capable off-roader and a modern daily driver.
Performance, driveline and off-road capability
Buyers can choose between two engines: a 2.5-litre naturally aspirated boxer and the more potent 2.4-litre turbo boxer that produces about 194 kW and 382 Nm (roughly 260 hp and 282 lb-ft). Both powerplants are paired to Subaru’s Lineartronic CVT, which includes an eight-speed manual mode. Standard across the range are X-Mode off-road settings and Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive with an improved Active Torque Split control system for better traction and composure in low-grip conditions.
Ground clearance has been raised versus the outgoing model: naturally aspirated models now sit at 220 mm, while the Wilderness tops the lineup with 240 mm, improved approach and departure angles, and electronically controlled dampers — all engineered to boost capability for adventure driving.
Pricing and trims in Australia
Subaru Australia has priced the new Outback competitively:
- Base: AUD 48,990
- Premium: AUD 53,490 (MLP)
- Touring: AUD 56,990
- Wilderness (two variants): AUD 59,690 and AUD 62,690
These prices place the Outback squarely in the mid-size adventure SUV segment, offering a blend of tech, safety and genuine off-road credentials that appeals to buyers who need family-friendly practicality and weekend adventuring capability.
Why this matters
For Australian buyers who’ve long trusted the Outback for trips into the bush and daily driving alike, the 2026 model delivers a clearer focus on ruggedness and capability without sacrificing modern connectivity and safety tech. Whether you favour the turbocharged punch of the 2.4L Boxer or the simpler 2.5L engine, the redesigned Outback reinforces Subaru’s place in the adventure-focused SUV market.
"The 2026 Outback ushers in a bold new design and engineering direction with outdoor adventure at its core," Subaru says — and the Wilderness trim makes that statement literal.
If you’re in the market for a crossover that can handle gravel tracks, family duties and comfortable highway cruising, the new Outback is worth a test drive at your local Subaru dealer.
Source: autoevolution
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