Subaru has unveiled the all-new 2026 Outback Wilderness at the 2025 New York International Auto Show — and it’s more capable, aggressive, and adventure-ready than ever before. Designed for those who push beyond the pavement, the next-generation Wilderness edition combines Subaru’s iconic Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive with a bold new design, refined interior upgrades, and serious off-road chops.
Built for the Backcountry
Still boasting an impressive 9.5 inches of ground clearance, the new Outback Wilderness is ready to tackle rough trails and uneven terrain. A redesigned suspension system now includes electronically controlled dampers, allowing for improved ride stability whether you’re navigating rocks or cruising the highway. Sensors work in real time to adjust damping, minimizing body sway and enhancing control.
Under the hood sits a turbocharged 2.4-liter SUBARU BOXER® engine, delivering 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a Lineartronic® CVT with 8-speed manual shift mode, paddle shifters, and Dual-Mode X-MODE® (Snow/Dirt and Deep Snow/Mud), this powertrain is built to adapt to changing environments and terrain.
Optimized for Off-Roading
Enhanced with a quicker-locking center differential and upgraded AWD logic, the Outback Wilderness offers superior grip and improved cornering stability — even when off the beaten path. Wilderness-exclusive 17-inch matte black wheels come wrapped in all-terrain Bridgestone Dueler tires, adding both style and functionality.
Approach, breakover, and departure angles have all been improved for 2026: now at 20°, 21.2°, and 22.5° respectively — giving drivers more clearance in demanding off-road situations. A redesigned trailer hitch setup supports towing up to 3,500 pounds and includes both 7-pin and 4-pin connectors for added convenience.
Tough Outside, Refined Inside
While the exterior features a tougher, more rugged aesthetic — including matte black cladding, LED hexagonal fog lights, roof rails with rope hooks, and anodized copper accents — the interior focuses on comfort and durability. The Outback Wilderness now offers water-resistant StarTex® upholstery as standard, with Nappa leather, ventilated seats, a moonroof, and a 360° camera available for the first time in a Wilderness model.
New utility hooks in the cargo area (up to 6 lbs per hook) make gear organization easy, and the expanded 34.6 cubic feet of space includes a multipurpose cargo cover made from 100% recycled material — usable as a hammock, divider, or scratch shield.
Technology That Travels Well
Subaru’s latest tech suite comes standard, led by a 12.1-inch high-resolution infotainment touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™. It’s paired with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and offers SiriusXM®, HD Radio®, Bluetooth®, and OTA updates. This upgraded system serves as a command center for navigation, media, and off-road controls alike.
The 2026 Subaru Outback Wilderness will arrive in dealerships nationwide in early 2026. Pricing and full specs will be announced closer to launch — but one thing’s for sure: Subaru just raised the bar for adventure SUVs.
