- The new Subaru Outback 2026 is now on sale in Australia, with demo models in dealerships and customer deliveries starting in Q2 2026.
- Pricing kicks off at $48,990 plus on-roads, while the rugged Wilderness models bring turbo power and superior ground clearance.
- Refreshed design, landscape touchscreen, and advanced EyeSight safety make it a compelling alternative to larger SUVs.
New Subaru Outback 2026 Unleashes Wilderness in Australia
The new Subaru Outback 2026 has landed in Australia, ready to challenge traditional large SUVs with sharper styling, meaningful upgrades across the board, and the long-awaited arrival of the Outback Wilderness variant.
This seventh-generation model marks a clear evolution from its roots as a raised wagon derived from the now-discontinued Liberty sedan. It stands confidently on its own, offering five seats and permanent all-wheel drive without hybrid or diesel options, yet delivering a practical and capable package that appeals to Australian families and adventure seekers alike.
Subaru has listened to local buyers who have repeatedly called for greater off-road prowess. The introduction of the Wilderness model finally delivers that in a big way, positioning it as the halo variant in the range. Subaru Australia is planning to roll out Wilderness treatment across other SUVs like the Forester and Crosstrek, but the Outback leads the charge.
When Does the 2026 Subaru Outback Go on Sale in Australia?
The 2026 Subaru Outback Australia launch is underway right now. Full pricing has been released, and initial demonstration vehicles are reaching dealerships across the country.
Customer deliveries for the 2026 Subaru Outback in Australia are scheduled to begin in the second quarter of 2026. Subaru recommends contacting your local dealer for exact order timelines and availability, as demand is expected to be strong for both standard models and the new Wilderness variants.
This rollout timing aligns with Subaru’s strategy to give buyers early access to the refreshed range while ensuring smooth supply for the highly anticipated off-road-focused models.
How Much Does the 2026 Subaru Outback Cost in Australia?
The new Subaru Outback 2026 price Australia starts at $48,990 plus on-road costs for the entry-level AWD variant — a $4,800 increase over the previous base model.
The range climbs through Premium ($53,490) and Touring ($56,990) grades, all powered by the naturally aspirated 2.5-litre boxer engine. The turbocharged 2.4-litre engine is now exclusive to the Wilderness models, with the base Wilderness priced at $59,690 and the top-spec Wilderness Apex at $62,690.
Premium paint costs an extra $660 on most of the ten available colours, with only Crystal White Pearl and Crystal Black Silica offered at no additional charge.
All variants come with Subaru’s five-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty and a capped-price servicing plan. The first five services total $2,351.21 for 2.5-litre models and $2,347.31 for the turbocharged Wilderness.
| Model | Price (excl. on-roads) |
|---|---|
| Outback AWD | $48,990 |
| Outback AWD Premium | $53,490 |
| Outback AWD Touring | $56,990 |
| Outback AWD Wilderness | $59,690 |
| Outback AWD Wilderness Apex | $62,690 |
2026 Subaru Outback Design and Specifications
Subaru describes every panel and proportion of the 2026 Subaru Outback as reimagined, resulting in a more upright, SUV-like appearance while retaining the familiar wagon footprint.
Overall length grows by 10mm to 4880mm (approximate, based on identical wheelbase), width increases by 5mm, and height rises 40mm to 1715mm for standard models (1735mm for Wilderness). Ground clearance for the 2026 Subaru Outback improves to 220mm on regular variants and 240mm on Wilderness — significant gains for Australian conditions.
The front end adopts a larger grille, vertical LED headlights, and robust bumpers with protective cladding all around. Wider tracks and a flatter roof with reinforced ladder-style rails (now rated to 363kg) enhance both stance and practicality for roof tents and gear.
Inside, the 2026 Subaru Outback interior updates focus on space, quietness, and usability. The controversial portrait touchscreen is replaced by a landscape-oriented 12.1-inch display with faster software and simpler menus. Traditional rotary climate controls return below the screen, addressing common owner feedback.
Cargo volume grows to 530 litres behind the rear seats (up to 1211 litres folded), aided by a squarer opening and steeper rear glass. A clever soft cargo cover doubles as a load mat and stows neatly in the side trim.
Towing capacity for the 2026 Subaru Outback remains 2000kg braked on 2.5-litre models, but drops to 2100kg on Wilderness variants — a trade-off for the raised suspension and off-road tuning.
Equipment Levels in the 2026 Subaru Outback Range
Standard equipment on the base Outback AWD is generous: dual-zone climate control, 12.1-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, digital radio, 12.3-inch driver display, heated front seats, power driver’s seat, powered tailgate, LED headlights, and 18-inch dark metallic alloys.
Moving to Premium adds a heated steering wheel, power passenger seat, sunroof, satellite navigation, 360-degree camera, and premium Harman Kardon audio.
The Touring grade brings Nappa leather upholstery, wireless charging, auto-folding mirrors with memory, heated rear seats, and gloss-finish wheels.
Wilderness models build on the base with water-repellent upholstery, yellow stitching, embossed headrests, unique fog lights, raised suspension, electronic dampers, and the additional Deep Snow/Mud X-Mode setting. The Apex version adds the sunroof, navigation, 360-camera, and Harman Kardon sound.
What Powers the 2026 Subaru Outback?
Engine choices remain boxer petrol units. The 2.5-litre four-cylinder produces 137kW and 254Nm, paired exclusively with a CVT and all-wheel drive.
The turbo 2.4-litre, now reserved for Wilderness models, delivers 194kW and 382Nm — gains of 11kW and 32Nm over the previous XT. Fuel economy for the 2026 Subaru Outback stands at 8.1L/100km combined for 2.5-litre variants and 9.7L/100km for the turbo Wilderness pair.
Both engines run happily on 91 RON unleaded, with a 63-litre tank providing decent range for long Australian drives.
How Capable Is the Subaru Outback Wilderness 2026 Off-Road?
The Subaru Outback Wilderness 2026 off-road capability receives substantial upgrades that go beyond cosmetics. Raised suspension delivers 240mm ground clearance, improved approach (20°), departure (23.6°), and breakover (21.2°) angles, plus electronically controlled dampers for better composure on rough surfaces.
X-Mode gains a dedicated Deep Snow/Mud setting on Wilderness models, optimising torque distribution and traction control for slippery conditions. Extra underbody protection, durable cladding, and matte-black accents complete the package.
While it lacks low-range gearing or locking differentials, the permanent AWD system and enhanced geometry make it far more trail-ready than standard models. Australian-spec vehicles retain road-biased Bridgestone Alenza tyres rather than dedicated all-terrains, striking a balance for daily driving.
For buyers tackling high country tracks or gravel roads, the Wilderness offers genuine substance rather than just styling.
Safety and Technology Features in the 2026 Subaru Outback
The 2026 Subaru Outback safety technology receives meaningful upgrades with the latest EyeSight suite. A new wide-angle monocular camera joins the stereo cameras and radar for better detection of pedestrians and cyclists.
New functions include emergency driving stop, traffic sign recognition, acceleration override assist, and active lane change assist (Touring only). The driver monitoring system improves facial recognition and posture detection.
Additional radar enables front side monitoring, while familiar features like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and autonomous emergency braking remain. Nine airbags, including a new far-side front airbag, provide comprehensive protection.
Infotainment centres on the 12.1-inch landscape touchscreen with wireless connectivity, supported by a 12.3-inch digital cluster offering multiple display themes. Higher grades gain wireless charging and premium audio, though connected services like over-the-air updates or remote functions are absent.
With these enhancements, the 2026 Subaru Outback strengthens its position as a safe, practical, and adventurous choice for Australian buyers seeking capability without the bulk of traditional large SUVs.
