2026 Subaru Outback Simplifies Lineup But Costs Way More
The next-generation 2026 Subaru Outback, unveiled last April at the New York Auto Show, isn’t the high-riding wagon we used to know and moves closer to a proper SUV. It's now on sale in Canada, and let's just say that prices have changed a lot, too.
Three of the seven trim levels on the 2025 menu have been discontinued including Convenience, Onyx and Limited. All of them were powered by the naturally aspirated 2.5-litre engine, which now generates 180 horsepower (-2) and 178 lb-ft of torque (+2) and is found only in Touring trim a.k.a. the new entry point to the lineup.
- Also: 2026 Subaru Outback: Five Things to Know
- Also: Subaru Canada to Rely Less on U.S.-Built Vehicles Moving Forward
The cheapest 2026 Outback costs $43,563 including fees, which is an increase of $2,100 over the equivalent 2025 model and $6,400 over the discontinued Convenience trim. By the way, fuel consumption ratings have not yet been announced by Natural Resources Canada, but according to Subaru, the base engine's combined score increases from 8.3 to 8.4 L/100 km.
Standard equipment includes 18-inch wheels, a sunroof, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster paired with a 12.1-inch touchscreen, a 10-way power driver's seat, as well as all of Subaru's safety and driver assistance features except the 360-degree camera and front radar for forward pre-collision braking.
Other 2026 Outbacks feature the turbocharged 2.4-litre engine producing 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque, starting with the Limited XT at $50,863, which costs $2,400 more than before. This one also has 19-inch wheels, a leather interior and heated rear seats.
Next up is the Outback Wilderness, which is more versatile and more rugged but also not a pretty sight with all that cladding up front. The all-inclusive price is $51,863, a $3,900 increase over 2025. Beyond styling, this model stands out with 17-inch wheels shod with all-terrain tires, additional skid plates, an improved X-Mode system, an off-road-tuned suspension with electronic dampers, not to mention sharper steering and all-weather, soft-touch seating surfaces with a geometric pattern.
Finally, the top-of-the-line Premier XT model starts at $53,863. It features distinctive 19-inch wheels, genuine Nappa leather, 12-way power adjustment and manual thigh support for the driver's seat, as well as ventilated front seats, among other features.
Unlike one of its main competitors, the Hyundai Santa Fe, the 2026 Subaru Outback doesn't yet offer a hybrid powertrain, but we know the company is working on it. Perhaps later in the model year, if not 2027?