Subaru will launch its new, seventh-generation Outback in Australia in 2026, featuring the brand’s first-ever Wilderness sub-brand variant. This move marks a significant expansion of Subaru’s off-road-focused lineup for the Australian market, bringing features previously exclusive to North America.
Wilderness: A New Halo for Subaru SUVs
The Outback Wilderness is positioned by Subaru as the “STI of SUVs,” signaling a commitment to genuine off-road capability rather than just cosmetic upgrades. The Wilderness trim will replace the current XT Sport and Touring as the sole turbocharged Outback option, though at a substantial price increase of at least $6,000, starting at $59,690. The base seventh-generation Outback will begin at $48,990.
Performance and Mechanical Upgrades
The Wilderness model boasts a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder boxer engine (FA24F) delivering 194kW/382Nm – a notable increase from the standard Outback’s 137kW/254Nm. This makes it the most powerful Subaru SUV currently available. The transmission is a tweaked continuously variable automatic (CVT) with simulated shift points and a shorter final drive for enhanced off-road performance.
While not yet confirmed for Australia, US versions include features like a transmission oil-cooler and recalibrated all-wheel drive system. Ground clearance is increased by 20mm to 240mm, supported by adaptive dampers from ZF and two X-Mode suspension settings for superior handling.
Design and Interior Enhancements
The Wilderness stands out with rugged black wheel arch cladding, black exterior mirror caps, and LED headlights. Inside, it features water-repellent synthetic leather upholstery, wireless smartphone charging, and a heated steering wheel. The infotainment system is upgraded to a 12.1-inch horizontal touchscreen, replacing the older vertical display.
Wilderness Apex: The Premium Option
The Outback Wilderness Apex adds further refinement with sat-nav, a powered sunroof, surround-view camera, and a 12-speaker Harman Kardon audio system, bringing the price to $62,690. Tire options vary between Bridgestone road tires on 18-inch wheels and Yokohama Geolandar or BFGoodrich all-terrain tires on 17-inch alloys.
Strategic Expansion and Market Context
Subaru’s decision to bring the Wilderness sub-brand to Australia reflects a broader industry trend toward premium off-road vehicles. Other automakers, such as Ford, are also developing high-performance off-road models, indicating a growing consumer demand for capable and adventurous SUVs. The Outback is Subaru’s third best-selling model in Australia, behind the Forester and Crosstrek, making it a strategic vehicle for this expansion.
The Outback Wilderness represents Subaru’s intent to establish a clear identity for its off-road models, mirroring the performance focus of the STI lineup but applied to SUVs.
