2026 Subaru Outback Wilderness: The More Versatile Than Ever Adventurer
Sonoma, CA—If there’s one lasting takeaway from the pandemic that disrupted the global order just a few short years ago, it’s the renewed and unmistakable appetite consumers now have for adventure. While the advent of the automobile in the 20th century allowed humanity to explore the world, by 2026 we are clearly talking about a fully established segment. All-terrain tires, underbody protection, reinforced suspension components—nearly everything is optimized in these adventure-focused vehicles designed to go beyond paved roads.
It was, in fact, during the height of the pandemic that the first Wilderness model made its debut. Essentially a more rugged take on the formula Subaru introduced with the Outback back in the mid-1990s, this beefed-up, higher-riding wagon quickly found its audience. For 2026, not only does the Outback undergo a complete redesign, but its Wilderness variant follows suit.
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Following our first drive of the standard Outback last November—under torrential rain—we found ourselves behind the wheel of the family’s adventurer once again. Thankfully, the conditions were far better this time around. The question was: like its mainstream counterpart, has the 2026 Outback Wilderness preserved its reputation as the ultimate do-it-all vehicle?
A Bold Look That Gets People Talking
There’s no ignoring the new looks of the 2026 Outback, but in Wilderness trim, Subaru’s designers have crossed a line we didn’t think possible for such a traditionally conservative brand. It almost feels like revisiting Hans Christian Andersen’s Ugly Duckling tale.
Up front, the massive grille proudly spelling out S-U-B-A-R-U, combined with the extensive use of black cladding, is a reminder that the Japanese automaker once sold pickup trucks. Do the names Baja or Brat ring a bell?
The hood is flatter, matching the upright front fascia. On the sides, the Outback Wilderness gains more aggressive fender flares and rocker panels, accented once again by anodized copper-coloured trim on the roof rails, badges and rear elements. Riding 20 mm higher than the standard Outback, the Wilderness model is clearly more serious about tackling rough terrain.
Tire choice has also changed: gone are the Yokohamas of the previous generation, replaced by Bridgestone Dueler A/T rubber. According to Subaru, these tires reduce road noise while maintaining solid grip on loose surfaces.
Practicality Meets Technology
Cargo space grows slightly for 2026, even with a full-size spare tucked beneath the load floor. Subaru also adds multiple utility hooks along with a flexible, recycled fabric cargo cover that is machine washable. This clever accessory can serve as a partition, a gear hammock or a protective cover for the cargo sill, helping prevent scratches and dirt caused by pets or equipment.
As we’ve already noted with other models, the Outback Wilderness is equipped with Subaru’s new Multimedia Plus system featuring a 12.1-inch touchscreen paired with a 12.3-inch fully digital instrument cluster. The high-resolution centre display supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto with full-screen functionality. And kudos to Subaru’s engineers for bringing back physical climate control buttons. Standard equipment also includes Bluetooth connectivity, AM/FM audio, a rearview camera, SiriusXM with 360L (four-month trial), HD Radio and over-the-air updates.
Driving a (Slightly) Taller Wagon
As we noticed during our first drive of the new Outback in late 2025, despite a more SUV-like appearance, the vehicle’s driving dynamics remain largely unaffected. However, with different tires, increased ground clearance and the addition of adaptive dampers—a first for Subaru—a different driving experience was to be expected.
Yet, much like the original Wilderness, these changes haven’t transformed the Outback into a crude, uncomfortable off-roader. On the contrary, the tires do an excellent job of filtering road noise, while the suspension feels only slightly firmer than in other trims. Steering remains light, ideal for urban driving, but still provides enough feedback for drivers seeking a bit of agility, regardless of surface conditions.
The turbocharged 2.4-litre flat-four engine, producing 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque, is better suited to moving this heavier Outback. Acceleration is brisk and linear, though it’s no replacement for the dearly departed WRX STI. Despite its extra height, handling remains composed thanks in large part to Subaru’s symmetrical all-wheel drive system. The sole available transmission—a CVT—works well with the engine, provided you don’t push it too hard, otherwise it becomes noticeably louder at high revs.
That said, performance isn’t the primary mission, here. The Wilderness’ true appeal lies in its ability to venture farther off the beaten path.
And Off-Road?
For this drive program, Subaru picked an off-road course on a sprawling ranch in California’s Sonoma region. The terrain, dotted with hills and valleys, put the enhanced Wilderness-spec X-Mode system to the test. Heavy rain in the days prior had made the conditions challenging for our American colleagues, but dry weather made things easier for this Canada-only group. While more extreme trails certainly exist, the Outback Wilderness barely flinched when tackling the three or four most demanding obstacles on the course.
The two X-Mode settings operate seamlessly, with minimal noise or drama from the all-wheel drive system. Purists may criticize the relatively conservative tire choice, but Subaru’s decision makes sense: most owners will rarely venture into deep mud or ruts despite all the hardware designed for off-road use.
Final Word
With a starting MSRP of $49,195 (plus freight, PDI and other fees), the 2026 Subaru Outback Wilderness is more expensive than before. That said, it offers richer content, increased interior space and off-road capabilities that remain impressive for a family-oriented crossover.
Driving enjoyment is still very much present, as are comfort and intuitive controls. It’s not perfect—there’s still no electrification in sight, and the CVT can make itself heard when pushed—but customers drawn to this kind of adventure likely know what they’re signing up for: a wagon that has gradually taken on a truck-like persona over time yet still delivers a distinctly car-like feel from behind the wheel.
