Looking Forward To 2026, 4 New Subaru Models To Get Excited About

They will be worth the wait.

Are you ready for not just one but four new Subaru models? They may be one and a half to two years away, but the potential they hold is worth the wait. If you enjoyed the 2025 Subaru Forester, which most do, you'll be thrilled by the next group of new Subaru models that are on their way to U.S. customers. 

I don't mean to leave out our neighbors up north. They will also be available in Canada.

You've waited a long time for this first remodeled Subaru SUV, which should be good. It's the all-new next-generation Subaru Outback midsize SUV. Some call it a crossover, and some call it a wagon. Regardless, it's Subaru's flagship model, coming out in 2026. Read my "Don't Mess With Success" report here.

The next-generation Outback

While Subaru has yet to release any details about the new model, their commitment to quality and innovation will produce a quality product. It's likely the next new model announcement for Subaru of America. Stay tuned. 

Here's what I know.

The 2026 Outback will likely have a redesigned front fascia with new headlights and grille and redesigned rear taillights and bumper. These cosmetic changes will improve aerodynamics and visibility, enhancing the midsize SUV's driving experience. 

The most significant changes will come underneath the exterior sheet metal. They will show up in advanced safety technology, driving dynamics will be improved, and a quieter cabin and ride quality will improve. 

These improvements are designed to enhance the driving experience, making the 2026 Outback safer, more comfortable, and more enjoyable. 

This is the one you've been waiting for.

Subaru customers have been waiting for a Subaru Forester Hybrid, and as I reported earlier here, it's coming next spring of 2025, possibly as a 2026 model-year vehicle. 

Subaru is tight-lipped about the next-generation Forester Hybrid and whether it's a Plug-In Hybrid or a conventional Hybrid. Subaru always keeps things close to the vest and does not openly share new model information, so I'm not surprised.

In a recent YouTube video, Tetsuo Fujinuki, Subaru's chief technical officer, said the new hybrid system they are developing now would have a small and compact Boxer engine, a differential to drive the front wheels, two motors for the hybrid unit, a transmission to drive the rear wheels, and a transmission to transmit torque to the compact SUV. 

Now we know more

Subaru's new hybrid technology formula is simple, yet significant. They will retain the Japanese automaker's signature horizontally opposed Boxer engine and employ it as a generator and drive unit. This series-parallel hybrid system, similar to the Toyota Prius, is a major technological advancement for Subaru, promising improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions.

The new series-parallel hybrid powertrain will package Subaru's internal combustion Boxer engine, electric motor, transfer case, and transmission together at the front of the vehicle. A drive shaft will stretch back to a small rear differential to power the all-wheel drive system.

The power control unit sits on top of the configuration, freeing up room at the vehicle's rear for a traditional-sized fuel tank. With the hybrid system and full-sized fuel tank, they've achieved a more extended range of gas and electric propulsion with the vehicle. 

A more extended all-electric range

This means that the new hybrid system will allow Subaru vehicles to travel longer distances on a single tank of fuel, reducing the need for frequent refueling and making them more convenient for long trips. For more information, read my report here.

Delayed but not forgotten.

William Stokes, Subaru of America's planning manager for the Forester, told Automotive News, "Subaru's Wilderness trim, which the automaker launched in 2021 as an overlanding subbrand, will continue to be offered on the Forester but not at launch."

The  was due to the next-generation Forester Wilderness requiring the Japanese automaker to develop a new suspension, possibly a new engine or engine modifications, and add outdoor upgrades that set it apart from the standard model and the Sport trim.

Will the Wilderness get a power boost?

The 2025 Forester compact SUV is powered by a 2.5-liter Boxer engine with 180 horsepower and 178 pound-feet of torque. That's two less horsepower and two more lb-ft of torque than the fifth-generation 2024 Forester. 

While Subaru has not confirmed any new engine upgrades, there's hope that the all-new Forester Wilderness will receive more power than the Base, Premium, Sport, Limited, and Touring trim levels. This potential upgrade could set it apart and allow it to carry extra gear up a steep mountain pass or trail, making it a compelling choice for outdoor enthusiasts. 

The new Crosstrek Hybrid could be next.

Based on the camouflaged Subaru Crosstrek prototype displayed alongside the Boxer/Hybrid powertrain during Fujinuki's address, the Subaru Crosstrek will likely be the next model to receive the new technology.

The Crosstrek is due for a refresh in 2026, so I expect to see the new Crosstrek hybrid in two years. 

The anticipation for the new Crosstrek Hybrid is building, promising an exciting future for Subaru and its enthusiasts.

My recent report from an Automotive News (by subscription) story said Subaru Corporation will bring back the Crosstrek Hybrid trim level in 2026. It looks even more likely because Tetsuo Fujinuki, Subaru's chief technical officer, explained the new Subaru Hybrid technology in a new video. 

A camouflaged Subaru Crosstrek prototype was displayed next to the new Boxer engine he described. You can read my report on the new Subaru Crosstrek Boxer/Hybrid tech here. 

With the Crosstrek due for a refresh in 2026, it's reasonable to expect the new Crosstrek hybrid to hit the market in two years. This timeline provides potential buyers with a clear understanding of when they can expect to see the latest model in showrooms. 

Find out more in my report: The All-New Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid Comes Into View here. 

All four new models will be made in America.

I am speculating that Subaru will manufacture the new U.S. specification 2026 Outback, Forester Hybrid, Wilderness, and Crosstrek Hybrid at the Subaru of Indiana Automotive plant. 

With these new models, Subaru is poised to strengthen its position in the competitive SUV and hybrid markets, offering customers a wider range of options and solidifying its reputation for quality and innovation.  

Which of the four new Subaru models do you have the most interest in? What would you like to see in the new model? Click the red Add new comment link below and let us know.

I am Denis Flierl, a top Torque News reporter since 2012. I’ve invested over 13 years in the automotive industry in a consulting role, working with every major car brand. I am an experienced Rocky Mountain Automotive Press member. You'll find my expert Subaru analysis here. Follow me on my X SubaruReport, All Subaru, WRXSTI, @DenisFlierl, Facebook, and Instagram.

Photo credit: Subaru USA