The Outback returns with a new form
The Subaru Outback is all-new for 2026, and that means the long-running SUV née wagon has a new run of trim levels and options to choose from, ranging from basic transportation all the way up to luxe highway cruiser or dedicated off-road SUV. It can be a lot to parse through if you’re not well-versed on the Subaru lineup, so we’ve taken some of the work out of it. If you’re in the market for an Outback, you can follow our trim level guide to figure out not only which trim level is best, but what options to grab and how much it’ll cost you.
The Limited XT is all the Subaru Outback you need
Annoyingly, there are really two answers here, the latter of which will be covered a bit further down. Bottom line? For most folks, the $44,365 Subaru Outback Limited XT is going to be the best option. That comes down to two big reasons: standard equipment and the bigger engine.
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Subaru doesn’t exactly make powerful cars, but the XT’s turbocharged Boxer four-cylinder has more than enough punch, whereas the 180-horsepower naturally aspirated one found in base models doesn’t. In XT and Wilderness models, you’ll get a much more usable 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. Either way, you benefit from Subaru’s legendary (and standard) all-wheel drive with a CVT automatic transmission.
Having just driven the thing, we can attest that the Outback’s larger engine should be the default, and the Limited XT your pick. The actual trim itself doesn’t add much over the NA Limited model, but the XT nets you a 360-degree camera system, the larger motor, 19-inch wheels, leather upholstery, heated rear seats and steering wheel, a power-adjustable passenger seat, navigation, a wireless charging pad, and an eight-speaker Harman Kardon sound system.
It’s exactly as much Subaru as any reasonable person needs. The Outback isn’t any sort of massive revolution over the previous model. The rear packs a bit more space for your things, the all-wheel drive system is just as capable on and off-road as before, and at long last, the tech feels usable and current.
The Subaru Outback has almost no options
Subaru
Setting aside what’s included, you’ll find there just isn’t a lot that’s leftover on Subaru’s configurator. The model’s biggest optional extras are limited to small add-ons or big stuff you may want to buy for your Outback down the line, like a Thule-branded roof tent. Subaru doesn’t include standard crossbars on the Limited XT, but they’re relatively cheap ($301), nor does it include utility hooks for the cargo area ($45). Finally, grab some of Subaru’s MOLLE straps. They’re an inventive attachment for the cargo area that’ll allow buyers to mount gear along the sides of the rear cargo bay, and they’re just $30. Add all that up, and the most you’d reasonably spend on a Limited XT comes out to $46,191 with options (including $395 for some cool green paint).
Splurge on a Subaru Outback Wilderness for more off-road capability
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If the Limited XT trim is all the Subaru anyone needs, the Outback Wilderness is the most Subaru. It’s the brand’s practical, safe, off-road-capable ethos taken to its natural conclusion, and all for just a few hundred bucks more than the aforementioned trim, at $44,995 MSRP.
Wilderness models pack in tons of off-road capability for around the same money, and it does so by removing some of the Limited XT’s features, like the powered moonroof, 12.1-inch screen with navigation, and 360-degree camera, all of which can be added back in for $2,045. So really, the one you want is $47,040.
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Regardless, Outback Wilderness models add tons of useful off-road upgrades, like all-terrain tires, unique all-wheel drive software tuning, added ground clearance, electronically controlled shocks, unique front and rear fascias, gold exterior accents, selectable drive modes, synthetic leather upholstery, all-weather floor mats, heated rear seats, an eight-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, and a wireless charging pad.
You can also make your Wilderness even more luxe with a pricey $4,090 options package, which adds Black Nappa leather seating, ventilated front seats, a power driver’s seat with more adjustability, and a power-adjustable passenger seat.
Final thoughts: The Outback lineup caters to two Subaru buyers
Subaru
Cole Attisha
The new Outback offers serious updates over the outgoing model, largely in terms of tech. The latest screens and climate control systems are much improved, and the Outback is still a reasonably-priced buy among competitors like the Highlander and RAV4 (which it straddles rather well). The SUV has updated looks, too, and features some excellent capability thanks to its all-wheel drive system that traditional rivals don’t. Combined with solid pricing, the Outback makes an enticing argument, and now, you’ll be armed with the knowledge you need to make the right choice at the dealer.
About the author
Chase Bierenkoven
Senior Editor, Autoblog