2026 Subaru OutbackSubaruThe 2026 Forester Outback Limited XT is like a great diner - it does a lot of things well, and there’s something for everyone. It delivers the traditional Subaru with all-wheel drive, bad-weather ability, plenty of cargo space, comfort and durability, but with a stronger engine than in years past. It’s also lost any trace of the “Lifted wagon” flavor and arrives a full, squared-off SUV.What’s new for 2026?The big news for 2026 is the vehicle’s complete redesign. Subaru gave the Outback a more upright body, a redesigned interior, a standard 12.1-inch touchscreen, a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, upgraded EyeSight driver-assist tech, standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and newly standard Reverse Automatic Braking. The Limited XT also gets the turbocharged engine, 19-inch black-finish alloy wheels, surround-view monitor and dual exhaust outlets.2026 Subaru OutbackSubaruWhat does it look like?It’s tall and boxy, with a blunt nose and large grille. The overall shape says “SUV” instead of “high wagon” as in years past. It also looks tough, like it can handle snow, a stream or any mild off-roading you’d like to do.EnginePower comes from Subaru’s 2.4-liter turbocharged BOXER four-cylinder, making 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque. This is paired with a Lineartronic CVT and standard all-wheel drive.AdvertisementAdvertisementEPA mileage for the Limited XT is 21 mpg city, 29 mpg highway and 24 mpg combined. Base MSRP is $44,365. With Subaru’s $1,450 destination and delivery charge, the total is $45,815. Subaru lists no extra factory option package above that for the Limited XT although some colors, including Deep Emerald Green Pearl and River Rock Pearl, will cost you $395.2026 Subaru OutbackSubaruInsideThe Limited XT feels like a grown-up Subaru cabin - useful, roomy and not fussy. You get leather-trimmed seating, heated front seats, heated mirrors, windshield wiper de-icer, dual-zone climate control, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Harman Kardon audio, wireless charging, navigation, power liftgate and a big center screen.2026 Subaru OutbackSubaruOne of the most welcome improvements is that Subaru brought back more physical climate controls. The cabin has good outward visibility, a comfortable driving position and enough rear-seat and cargo space to make road trips, dogs, gear or suitcases easy to handle.The DriveThe turbo engine gives it the push the standard engine lacks, especially when merging, climbing grades or passing. It is not sporty in the German-car sense, especially from a dead stop, but the thrust is strong and the ride is relaxed. Steering is easy, visibility is excellent and the car feels planted in the Subaru fashion - calm, grippy and ready for nasty weather.2026 Subaru OutbackSubaruRoom for improvementThe CVT is efficient and smooth but not especially exciting. I was surprised to find no hybrid version available, especially with Subaru’s big-brain rep. They now sells hybrid versions of the Forester and Crosstrek, but the redesigned 2026 Outback remains gas-only, which makes the Limited XT’s not-great 24-mpg combined rating something you’ll have to live with.AdvertisementAdvertisementBottom line: The redesigned 2026 Outback is a comfortable, practical, all-weather machine that’s all Subaru. For lovers of the brand, it’s a winner.This article was originally published on Forbes.com