Quick Read
- 2026 Subaru Outback Wilderness debuts in Australia with turbocharged 2.4L Boxer engine (194 kW/382 Nm).
- Advanced off-road tech: Dual-mode X-Mode, electronically controlled dampers, 240mm ground clearance.
- Starts at AUD$59,690, making it one of the most competitively priced adventure-ready wagons.
- Interior upgrades include water-repellent seats, 12.1-inch touchscreen, and premium options in Apex variant.
- Safety suite includes latest EyeSight®, Driver Monitoring, and nine airbags.
Subaru’s Most Capable Outback Ever: Wilderness Edition Hits Australia
The 2026 Subaru Outback Wilderness is here, and it’s not just another lifted wagon. In fact, Subaru is staking its claim as the ultimate adventure-ready SUV for Australian drivers who demand more than just city comfort. With the confirmation of specs and pricing, the Outback Wilderness is shaping up as a genuine rival to the most serious off-road vehicles in its class, all while maintaining Subaru’s reputation for reliability and versatility.
Turbo Power Meets Serious Off-Road Engineering
At the heart of the Outback Wilderness is Subaru’s robust 2.4-litre turbocharged Boxer engine. Delivering 194 kW of power and a hefty 382 Nm of torque, this engine marks a significant leap forward from previous Outback models. Unlike some competitors who have opted for hybrid setups or smaller engines, Subaru has doubled down on power and capability, ensuring the Wilderness is ready for Australia’s roughest tracks and longest road trips.
The new electronically controlled damper system is a standout. This system, available exclusively on the Wilderness trim, uses data from a web of sensors—tracking everything from angular velocity and body acceleration to steering input and brake pressure. The result? Real-time suspension adjustments that keep the ride comfortable on the highway and stable on rocky, uneven terrain. Coupled with Subaru’s Enhanced Active Torque Split AWD (ACT-4) and a high-torque Lineartronic CVT gearbox, the Wilderness is engineered for control and confidence wherever you roam.
Adventure-Ready Design and Features
Subaru didn’t just focus on the mechanicals. The Outback Wilderness is visually distinct, wearing a bold, boxy exterior that hints at its rugged intent. Minimum ground clearance sits at a lofty 240 mm—19 mm higher than the Toyota Prado Kakadu—giving drivers more confidence when tackling river crossings or steep embankments. Off-road geometry is equally impressive, with approach, ramp breakover, and departure angles of 20°, 21.2°, and 23.6° respectively. These specs are not just numbers—they’re the difference between getting stuck and getting through.
Inside, adventure meets comfort. A landscape-oriented 12.1-inch high-resolution centre touchscreen brings wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to the dashboard. The digital instrument cluster, now 12.3 inches, features bespoke graphics that echo the Wilderness’s go-anywhere attitude. Cabin details include water-repellent Wilderness seat trim, embossed logos, and a wireless phone charging pad, ensuring the vehicle is as practical as it is premium. USB-A and USB-C ports for both front and rear passengers guarantee every device stays charged, wherever the journey leads.
For those who want more, the Apex variant steps things up with a panoramic 360-degree camera, a Harman Kardon 12-speaker sound system, and an optional Nappa leather-accented interior. The Apex also adds an electric sunroof and satellite navigation, rounding out a feature list that reads more like a luxury car than a traditional off-roader.
Pricing: Value Meets Capability
Perhaps the biggest surprise is the price. The 2026 Outback Wilderness starts at AUD$59,690 (plus on-road costs), which is notably lower than expected for a model packed with so much tech and capability. The Apex variant is available from AUD$62,690, offering premium upgrades without a sky-high price tag. Subaru’s pricing strategy seems aimed at undercutting rivals and making serious off-road performance accessible to more Australian families and adventure-seekers.
Other trims in the Outback range start from AUD$48,990 for the AWD base model, with incremental features added at each level up to the Wilderness and Apex. The pricing structure highlights Subaru’s commitment to offering something for everyone—from daily commuters to weekend explorers.
Technology and Safety: Subaru’s Strongest Suite Yet
Safety and technology are front and centre in the 2026 Outback lineup. Standard across the range is Subaru’s latest-generation EyeSight® system, which now includes a wide-angle monocular camera for enhanced vision. Emergency Driving Stop System, nine SRS airbags, and Subaru Vision Assist (with Blind Spot Monitor, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, and Reverse Automatic Braking) ensure peace of mind. The Driver Monitoring System, powered tailgate, heated front seats, and a suite of convenience features make the Outback as easy to live with as it is to adventure in.
Premium paint options, including Deep Emerald Pearl and Geyser Blue, add a splash of personality to the Wilderness trim. Not every colour is available across all trims, but the Wilderness gets its own exclusive palette to match its unique character.
Outback Wilderness: Rewriting the Adventure Wagon Playbook
The Outback Wilderness isn’t just a facelift or a marketing exercise—it’s Subaru’s answer to the demands of Australian drivers who want real off-road performance without sacrificing daily comfort. The combination of turbocharged power, advanced electronic suspension, and thoughtful interior upgrades sets a new benchmark for adventure wagons in 2026.
With orders now open and deliveries expected soon, the Outback Wilderness is poised to become a favourite among those who see Australia’s roads as the gateway to adventure. Whether you’re crossing the Nullarbor, camping in the outback, or just tackling the daily commute, the Wilderness promises to do it all with style and substance.
Subaru’s 2026 Outback Wilderness demonstrates a clear commitment to blending genuine off-road ability with everyday usability. By delivering advanced engineering at a competitive price, Subaru isn’t just following the SUV trend—it’s pushing the boundaries of what an adventure wagon can be in Australia. The Wilderness is likely to attract not only loyal Subaru fans but also those ready to trade up from more traditional SUVs, making it a defining model for the brand in the coming year.