- Editors commended the new 2026 Subaru Outback for its cargo space, driving performance, on- and off-road prowess, and design
- It was chosen from hundreds of new vehicle options for consumers
- The 2026 Subaru Outback is currently available, with a starting MSRP of $34,995
CAMDEN, N.J., March 13, 2026 — Subaru of America, Inc. revealed today that the new 2026 Subaru Outback has been selected for Autotrader’s Best New Cars of 2026 list. Chosen from hundreds of new vehicles on the market, the redesigned 2026 Subaru Outback SUV was highlighted by Autotrader experts for its performance, practicality, and striking new design.
“The new 2026 Subaru Outback further evolves the segment it pioneered over three decades ago, merging the performance and adaptability of larger SUVs with the ease of use and value of smaller crossovers,” stated Jeff Walters, President and Chief Operating Officer of Subaru of America. “We are honored that our new 2026 Outback has been acknowledged by Autotrader as a leading choice for consumers this year.”
Eligibility for the list required vehicles to be “innovative or provide exceptional value,” be available within the next nine months, and have a base price under $100,000. The new 2026 Subaru Outback is on sale now, starting at $34,995 MSRP, and boasts a fresh design along with completely new technology, such as a standard Subaru 12.1-inch infotainment touchscreen and a 12.3-inch full digital gauge cluster across all trims. The Outback offers a choice of a 2.5-liter, 180-horsepower SUBARU BOXER® engine or a 2.4-liter, 260-horsepower turbocharged SUBARU BOXER® engine, both mated to standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive with X-MODE® Dual Mode System and a Lineartronic® CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission).
“The specialists on our Autotrader editorial team test every new and redesigned vehicle annually, combining our shared assessments, observations, and data to select the Best New Cars,” explained Jason Fogelson, managing editor for Autotrader. “The 2026 list includes a combination of updated popular models and new entries that vehicle shoppers ought to consider during their search.”
The 2026 Subaru Outback comes in Premium, Limited, Touring, Limited XT, Touring XT, and Wilderness trim levels. It integrates brand-new technology and adaptability with the most extensive design overhaul the model has ever seen. The 2026 Outback includes raised ladder-type roof rails, a minimum of 8.7 inches of ground clearance, and seating for up to five passengers with 34.6 cubic feet of cargo space. Subaru’s acclaimed EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology is standard on every model, and Highway Hands Free Assist is now offered for the first time on Touring and Touring XT trims, functioning at speeds up to 85 mph. The completely new 2026 Subaru Outback Wilderness trim provides 9.5 inches of ground clearance, electronically adjustable dampers for improved comfort on any terrain, and a robust design that matches its abilities.
Additional details can be found on Subaru’s media site or Subaru.com.
About Subaru of America, Inc.
Subaru of America, Inc. (SOA) is an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of Subaru Corporation in Japan. Based in Camden, N.J., the firm sells and distributes Subaru vehicles, parts, and accessories via a network of approximately 640 dealers in the United States. All Subaru products are built in zero-landfill facilities, which include Subaru of Indiana Automotive, Inc., the sole U.S. auto plant recognized as a backyard wildlife habitat by the National Wildlife Federation. SOA follows the Subaru Love Promise®, the company’s commitment to demonstrate care and consideration for all people and to assist its communities and customers across the country. During the last two decades, SOA and the SOA Foundation have contributed over $340 million to causes important to the Subaru family, and its staff have completed more than 115,000 volunteer hours. Subaru is committed to being More Than a Car Company® and to improving the world. For more information, visit media.subaru.com. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, TikTok, and YouTube.
Aaron Cole
Product Communications Manager
856.488.3697
acole1@subaru.com
Miranda Jimenez
Product Communications Specialist
856.438.2820
mjimen@subaru.com
Karley Dowdy
Product Communications Specialist
856.488.8527
kdowdy@subaru.com
SOURCE Subaru of America, Inc.