The 2026 Subaru Outback Wilderness is a refresh of the trim level that started it all, 31 years ago. This new iteration is more than just a facelift; it's a statement of intent – to take on the toughest terrain and emerge victorious. With its beefy grille, massive block letters, and plastic cladding, the Wilderness is a visual representation of its capabilities. Under the hood, the 2.4-liter turbocharged flat-four engine pumps out 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. Paired with the continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) and all-wheel drive, this engine delivers smooth and responsive power. The Wilderness's ride height has been increased by 9.5 inches, giving it a more aggressive stance and improved articulation over obstacles. But it's not just about looks; the Wilderness has some serious off-road credentials. The X-mode drive programs for snow and dirt, as well as deep snow and mud, work seamlessly to tackle ...
The 2026 Subaru Outback Wilderness is a refresh of the trim level that started it all, 31 years ago. This new iteration is more than just a facelift; it’s a statement of intent – to take on the toughest terrain and emerge victorious. With its beefy grille, massive block letters, and plastic cladding, the Wilderness is a visual representation of its capabilities.
Under the hood, the 2.4-liter turbocharged flat-four engine pumps out 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. Paired with the continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) and all-wheel drive, this engine delivers smooth and responsive power. The Wilderness’s ride height has been increased by 9.5 inches, giving it a more aggressive stance and improved articulation over obstacles.
But it’s not just about looks; the Wilderness has some serious off-road credentials. The X-mode drive programs for snow and dirt, as well as deep snow and mud, work seamlessly to tackle challenging terrain. Hill-descent control is also available, making it easier to navigate steep inclines.
On the inside, the Wilderness features a roomy and comfortable cabin, complete with a 12.3-inch digital screen and 12.1-inch touchscreen. The seats are well-shaped, and the StarTex upholstery is easy to clean and maintain. The Premium package adds ventilated power front seats with memory, a massive moonroof, and a surround-view monitoring system.
However, the Wilderness is not without its drawbacks. The CVT still feels a bit clunky, and the lateral handling on-road needs some buffing. The exterior styling, while aggressive, may not age well. But for those who need a beast of burden for hauling a family in harsh weather conditions, the Wilderness is the perfect choice.
In conclusion, the 2026 Subaru Outback Wilderness is a formidable off-road capable crossover SUV that’s perfect for those who need a vehicle that can handle the toughest terrain. With its increased ride height, punchy power, and serious off-road credentials, this trim level is a must-consider for anyone in the market for a capable and comfortable vehicle.
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