Subaru will introduce the all-new Outback to South Africa in the fourth quarter of 2026 and the seventh-generation model brings a revised exterior design, an updated interior and, for the first time in the local line-up, a turbo-charged Wilderness derivative.
The mix of daily usability and all-wheel-drive ability continues in the new model, though its styling represents a clear shift from the previous generation. A more upright profile and a prominent new grille give the vehicle a stronger SUV appearance. The Wilderness variant extends this with protective cladding and distinct exterior details.
Two derivatives will be offered in South Africa: the 2.5 Premium and the 2.4 Wilderness. The Premium uses a naturally aspirated 2,5-litre four-cylinder Boxer engine that produces 137 kW and 254 Nm of torque.
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The Wilderness is fitted with a turbo-charged 2,4-litre Boxer engine that develops 194 kW and 382 Nm. Both engines are matched to Subaru’s Lineartronic CVT, and Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive is standard across the range. The Wilderness also gains dual-function X-Mode, which provides additional assistance on challenging surfaces and will appeal to owners who regularly travel beyond tarred roads.
Nteo Nkoli, national marketing manager at Subaru Southern Africa, says the new Outback should appeal to existing Subaru owners while giving other buyers a reason to consider the brand.
“People choose an Outback because they ask a lot of one car. They want to travel comfortably, have space for their family and feel confident when the road or weather takes a turn. Those qualities still matter enormously to us. With the new model, we have the opportunity to offer them in a very different-looking package, and the Wilderness is something we’re particularly looking forward to sharing with South African customers.”
The cabin has been updated with a 12,1-inch touchscreen and a 12,3-inch digital instrument cluster. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto provide access to navigation, music and communication functions, while the five-seat layout and split-folding rear seats retain the flexibility that suits family travel.
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The seventh-generation Outback has already received a Top Safety Pick+ award from the US Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. South African models will be equipped with Subaru’s EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, including adaptive cruise control and pre-collision braking, to support drivers on daily journeys and longer trips.
“The Outback is an important car for Subaru in South Africa, and its arrival gives our customers something to look forward to as we approach the end of the year,” adds Nkoli.
The new Outback will be sold with Subaru Southern Africa’s 5-year/105 000 km maintenance plan and a 5-year/150 000 km vehicle warranty. Customers seeking longer cover can extend the maintenance plan to seven years/150 000 km.
Local pricing and detailed specifications for each derivative will be announced closer to the South African launch in the fourth quarter of 2026.
Colin Windell for Colin-on-Cars in association with
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