Spy Shots Show the Next Subaru Outback Will Clearly Just Be an SUV

Spy photos give us a preview of the next-generation Subaru Outback. Bulky proportions with squared-off body lines make it look far more like an SUV than a wagon. It should debut later next year as a 2026 model.

Big changes are coming to the next-generation Subaru Outback. New spy photos give us our first look at the new wagon, which doesn't appear to be a wagon anymore.

Our photographer caught several camo-wrapped prototypes in public, and there's no denying that it looks way more like an SUV. At the very least, Subaru's new design gives off major crossover vibes with its upright shape. The front clip is bulked up and squared off, featuring a larger grille in the center with prominent corner vents protruding from the lower fascia. It's possible some false panels could be exaggerating proportions on the hood, but considering the popularity of SUVs, we doubt that's the case.

Moving along the side, we see straight lines across the roof instead of the current Outback's gentle curve. As such, it looks considerably taller in profile, with larger side glass that completely changes at the D-pillar. Instead of curving to a point, the rearmost side windows look rectangular, reminiscent of the second-generation Legacy Outback with a straight body line across the top. We can see some fake panels in there though, so details are still hidden.

Unfortunately, the wheel wells are not hidden. The new Outback will receive the same angular arches used on other Subaru models—a design feature that is polarizing to say the least. But, it brings the Outback in tune with other vehicles in the lineup, and the thin lights up front share design language with the Forester. It appears a split-light arrangement will be used here, with the top lights serving as daytime running lamps.

As for the interior, we can see the tops of two tablet-style screens in the spy shots, but that's about it. That's a stark difference from the current Outback, which features a large portrait-oriented center screen integrated into the dash. Similarly, we have little information at this time regarding the powertrain. We expect a hybrid setup to finally reach the Outback, utilizing the enduring boxer engine and a geared transmission instead of a CVT.

Expect the next-generation Subaru Outback to debut sometime next year as a 2026 model.