How Does the 2026 Subaru Outback Hold Up on a Rugged Family Trip to Utah?

The 2026 Outback is essentially the all-wheel drive midsize SUV you know and love, with an updated shape to allow for more head and cargo room and some key updates to both the tech and driving capabilities. It starts at $35,000 for basic trim levels, and increases from there, topping out at about $48,000. The look is much boxier than the Outbacks that run rampant in my Brooklyn neighborhood—more like a crossover than a wagon, and the 2.5-liter engine and CTV transmission make for a smooth and powerful ride.

What’s it like to drive?

I own a 2025 Subaru Forester Hybrid, so I was already familiar (and enamored) with the brand. The new Outback makes for a similarly enjoyable driving experience. Operating it is intuitive (don’t get me started on the rental cars I’ve struggled to figure out how to turn on), and it’s quicker and sportier than other Subaru models, though still remarkably quiet. The gas mileage is fairly average for cars of this size—we got about 27 miles per gallon. 

I took it off-roading once—to meet a guide at a slot canyon adventure—and while it was totally fine and certainly never bottomed out, I missed the “off-road” setting my Forester boasts. 

Yes! The symmetrical all-wheel drive was great for gripping twisty and sometimes wet roads. Additionally, automatic braking, blind-spot detection and driver focus monitoring are standard on all models. While it’s sometimes a little annoying to be yelled at for veering out of your lane to avoid a cyclist, I appreciate the vigilance. The overhead camera is great for assessing your surroundings, and while I test-drove the Limited, higher trim options offer a hands-free highway driving assistant, which is also pretty cool. 

How’s the tech?

My only complaint about my Forester is that I don’t love the touchscreen, which is both laggy and bulky. The new Outback addresses this common gripe, with a more responsive touchscreen (with wireless Apple CarPlay) that is now oriented horizontally, making it less like an iPad glued to your dashboard. I also appreciate that Subaru added back real buttons and knobs for climate control, so you can adjust temps without having to futz around with the touchscreen. 

My kids noted how similar the backseat felt to our Forester, which is a good thing, as the Forester is super-roomy, and they were obsessed with the heated seat warmers and ample charging options. Meanwhile, my husband (who is 6 feet tall) was comfortable thanks to the increased headroom, and I was able to see over the steering wheel (I’m 5’1”) thanks to easy-to-raise front seats. 

There’s also a little more trunk storage in the 2026 models; we easily fit 4 suitcases, 4 backpacks and the odd jumble of hiking boots. 

Is there anything not to like?

My only small quibbles were cosmetic, and ultimately subjective. While the River Rock color was stunning, I was aware of all the plastic on the exterior. I also missed the more traditional Outback shape which is so unique and family-oriented (if less sporty). But all in all, these are minor details and my test drive of the Outback only increased my affinity for the brand. It’s great for twisty roads and high altitudes, but also the carpool line and Trader Joe’s parking lot.