First drive Subaru Outback Wilderness 2026: an extra dose of adventure

The all-new seventh-generation 2026 Subaru Outback brings bold new styling, new features and new technology. It also has an upgraded version of the Wilderness trim, a badge that only makes its way onto the most rugged and capable versions of Subaru vehicles. On the Outback this includes extra ground clearance, all-terrain tires, an upgraded suspension system and advanced off-road modes. It builds on what makes every Outback strong while adding capability for tougher terrain.

The Outback is capable in any version, but the Wilderness adds that little bit extra. You can’t crawl into it, but you can tackle rougher off-road terrain with confidence. The hassle-free interior can withstand mud, kids or dogs with a good mix of durability and comfort. Its more upright SUV-like styling may disappoint some estate fans, but it doesn’t change the Outback’s core qualities. It’s a solid choice for those who want a vehicle that’s ready for adventure. We spent a day driving the road in Healdsburg, CA, to see if the Outback Wilderness lives up to its promise.

2026 Subaru Outback Wilderness first impressions

The Outback’s new exterior design gives it a more powerful appearance. The front is more upright with a larger grille, and the side profile is boxier with a flatter roofline that increases passenger and cargo space. It looks much less like a station wagon and more like an SUV, yet it still has wagon functionality, including an increased cargo space over the previous model.

The Wilderness upholstery adds robustness to the overall look. There’s 9.5 inches of ground clearance compared to 8.7 inches for the rest of the lineup, as well as improved approach, departure and breakover angles. This gives it an unmistakable off-road vibe. There are also anodized copper accents on the roof rails and fog lights with all-terrain tires on 17-inch matte black wheels. It’s an attractive vehicle with plenty of visual appeal.

Outside dimensions

Stimulate impressions and performance

This isn’t a hardcore off-roader, but it can handle more challenging off-road terrain than the rest of the lineup. If you regularly find yourself in the mud, this is the trim for you. The suspension has been tuned for better stability on rough surfaces, but still maintains its composure on the road thanks to the new electronically controlled dampers. Off-road they are combined with the X-Mode driving modes for greater safety on uneven surfaces without sacrificing comfort. We drove on dirt roads, up and down steep hills, and through heavy mud, and the Outback Wilderness didn’t even flinch.

The more powerful engine, which is standard in the Wilderness, is a notable upgrade over the base model. It delivers better responsiveness and less noise, especially under hard acceleration. The extra power, combined with the extra options, makes the Wilderness a more attractive vehicle.

Braking and accelerating

The Outback Wilderness has a 2.4-liter four-cylinder turbo engine that produces 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque. It accelerates strongly and has enough power to reach highway speeds. That power also comes in handy when you’re trying to get through deep mud.

You can brake confidently whether you’re coming to a stop on paved roads or off-road. It’s easy to modulate the brake and throttle when the terrain is tricky, so your passengers and you have a less jarring ride.

Performance Specifications

Fuel economy Subaru Outback Wilderness 2026

The 2026 Subaru Outback Wilderness gets an EPA-estimated rating of 21/27/23 city/highway/combined. This is slightly lower than other trims with the turbo engine, but significantly lower than fuel economy with the base engine, which achieves 27 mpg combined. Those who prioritize fuel economy, especially if they don’t need the Wilderness’s extra capabilities, will find the base engine a better option.

Interior design and comfort

The interior has been completely redesigned for greater comfort and a quieter ride. It has that no-nonsense feel, ready for adventure and exploration. The interior is spacious with enough room for five people, with anodized copper accents adding a unique touch only found in the wilderness. There’s also dual-zone climate control that uses hard buttons instead of fidgety touch controls, which is especially important when you’re driving off-road.

The front seats are supportive and comfortable and are electrically adjustable, including lumbar support. The back seat can easily fit three adults with more headroom than before, making it feel more open. It’s an attractive, spacious and welcoming cabin that won’t make you cringe if your boots are muddy.

Internal dimensions

Technology and ease of use

There’s a new 12.1-inch infotainment touchscreen that’s a big step up from the previous generation. It is responsive and easy to use with clear menus. There’s also a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, wireless smartphone connectivity and a wireless charging pad. The new system gives the Outback a much more modern and premium look.

Cargo and storage space

Cargo space measures 34.6 cubic feet with the seats up, an increase of two cubic feet over the previous generation. With the seats down, cargo capacity is 80.5 cubic feet. New utility hooks and a multi-purpose cover made from recycled materials provide versatility. The cover works as a divider, storage hammock or scratch protector and can be neatly stored away when not needed. Loading is easy with a flat load floor and a tailgate that opens higher, so tall people don’t have to dive underwater to store their cargo.

Our recommendation for which model you should buy

Prices for the 2026 Subaru Outback range from $34,995 to $47,995, with the Wilderness sitting near the middle at $44,995. Buy the Wilderness trim if you want improved off-road capabilities with higher ground clearance, electronically controlled dampers, all-terrain tires and advanced driving modes. If you’re not into off-roading, take a look at one of the other turbocharged trims. That more powerful engine makes a big difference. However you drive, the Wilderness has great styling that may be reason enough to make it your choice.