For better or worse, the 2026 Subaru Outback is here. Some Subie fans are pretty upset that the Outback lost its classic wagon shape. Now it’s more muscular looking as it flexes a new boxy style, like plenty of other SUVs. 

The 2026 Subaru Outback lost its wagon charm 

Have you seen the 2026 Subaru Outback? You might not recognize it, as it has an all-new design that ditches its familiar wagon charm for an aggressive, boxy shape. 

Some drivers are outraged because the circular, convenient shape that used to set this SUV apart is now boxy. People are saying it looks like the Ford Explorer, Toyota 4Runner, and other rivals. 

Comments about it on various online platforms have been mostly negative. Some people are saying that even though they’ve driven multiple Subaru Outback models, they won’t be getting this one. 

The rugged wagon has been butchered by a generic box, armed to the teeth with plastic cladding about the wheel hubs and bumpers. It’s a shocking departure, but is it really that bad? 

It looks like it’s ready to rumble, thanks to the Subaru Outback Wilderness Edition. According to Subaru, it has a 9.5-inch ground clearance, putting it up there with the Jeep Wrangler and Ford Bronco. 

Also, it has standard all-wheel drive with X-Mode, all-terrain tires, electronically controlled dampers, and ladder roof rails. The turbocharged 2.4-liter engine cranks out 260 hp and 277 lb-ft of torque. 

The interior features a 12.1-inch touchscreen, 12.3-inch digital cluster, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, a multi-purpose cargo cover that can be used as a hammock, and utility hooks that can hold up to 6 lbs. I think it deserves a chance!