Bigger and boxier than ever before, the new seventh-generation 2026 Subaru Outback has been unveiled at the 2025 New York Auto Show along with the tough and rugged Wilderness edition. While the new Outback has found itself reborn closer in styling to the Forester, the Wilderness model follows a similar formula to the models that have come before.

Outback Wilderness Suspension Upgrades

The most striking update to the 2026 Outback Wilderness is the vehicle’s new electronically controlled dampers. Acceleration sensors in the electronic control unit and front suspension detect road conditions and alter the damping profile in real time. This new suspension is tuned for improved stability on rough terrain while still maintaining comfort on the highway. Working with the vehicle’s X-Mode off-road drive mode the dampers provide exemplary off-road performance.

A taller stance offers enhanced approach, departure, and breakover angles. The approach angle of the Outback Wilderness has been extended to 20 degrees while breakover moves up to 21.2 degrees. Departure angle is 22.5 degrees. The refreshed 2026 Subaru Outback Wilderness offers 9.5 inches of ground clearance, which is more than many full-size SUVs. Bridgestone Dueler all-terrain tires are mounted to Wilderness-exclusive 17-inch matte black aluminum wheels.

What’s Under The Subaru Outback’s Hood?

Powering the 2026 Outback Wilderness is the company’s turbocharged 2.4-liter Boxer engine that produces 260 hp and 277 lb-ft of torque. Backing the engine is a standard Lineartronic continuously variable transmission (CVT). An 8-speed manual shift mode and steering wheel-mounted paddle shift control adds another level of driving excitement. Subaru’s X-Mode system offers both Snow/Dirt and Deep Snow/Mud drive modes for added off-road confidence. A revised Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system provides quicker center differential lockup and reduced wheelspin when off-road. The system also incorporates steering angle data for better stability at turn-in and cornering on higher-speed roads.

An upgraded available accessory trailer hitch features a combined 7-pin and 4-pin connector, and reconfigured rear bumper complement the vehicle’s 3,500-pound maximum towing capacity.

Style Matches (Rugged) Performance

The styling of the all-new 2026 Subaru Outback Wilderness is sure to be a contentious topic around the water cooler. The SUV includes standard ladder roof rails with measurement markers and a massive 800-pound static load rating. The roof rating drops to 220 pounds of dynamic load while moving, which is still more than enough for an adequate rooftop tent. Matte black side mirrors, side cladding, and headlamps; an expanded front bumper; and massive SUBARU grille are all unique features of the Wilderness. Anodized copper-finish exterior accents are included on the roof rails, foglamps, and reverse lights.

A fun Easter egg hidden in the hatch’s jamb uses dogs as a unit of measurement for stowage capacity: one behind the second row and two with the rear seats folded flat. Another Easter egg beneath the spoiler highlights mounting locations for larger items like rooftop tents.

Inside, the Outback Wilderness is fit with animal-free seating surfaces, which are covered in a water-resistant and easily cleanable StarTex upholstery. Anodized copper-finish interior accents are exclusive to Wilderness. For the first time Nappa leather upholstery, ventilated front seats, a moonroof, and a 360-degree Surround View Monitor are available as options on Wilderness.

When Does The 2026 Subaru Outback Wilderness Go On Sale?

If you like what you’ve seen so far and are ready to head on down to the dealer we’ve got bad news. Pricing and detailed specifications for the new Subaru Outback Wilderness will be available closer to launch in early 2026.