Same! If this isn’t going to look at least as wagony as the current gen they should just end the Outback name and come up with a new name, IMO. Some people already argue the Outback doesn’t look like a wagon because it’s not as extreme as some other old school wagons.
I just bought a 2025 Legacy XT Touring to replace my 2005 legacy gt wagon. I bought it new, I had a ‘99 leg gt wagon before that. I love wagons, and legacy’s, and though I don’t personally care for them, it made me happy a legacy-based wagon was still in the world. It’ll be sad to see them completely gone. And a dumb move from Subaru
I just brought home a new 2025 Outback Wilderness yesterday in autumn green, and I'm absolutely loving it. It's beautiful. I'm glad I didn't wait for the 2026 as I don't like that boxy look.
@@Gossamer2 you don’t need an outback wilderness for the school run. Boxy means lots of room. I cannot even get a dog cage on my 2016 Forester Xt much as I like it. I preferred the boxy shape of the earlier classic (boxy) forester XTs.
I really like the look of it. It reminds me of my old Outback. 2.5 and boxy. If an estate car isn’t boxy there isn’t enough room in the back of it. This new vehicle looks so sensible and practical.
I’ve seen this “spy” photo elsewhere. How do we know it is a new Outback and not a Forester Wilderness or some new Ascent? I find it very hard to believe Subaru would give up the wagon, since it is so successful.
The big magazines have assumed it’s the new Outback, which I would imagine and hope they are pretty certain in speculations before putting out any statements. In various spy photos you can basically tell it’s a Subaru badge on the front and definitely Subarus rear suspension set up. I don’t think it’s the Forester Wilderness because the front fascia is so different and the split headlight design as well as the longer rear over hang. Also these spy photos do look like the description of it by those at the NDA events and I haven’t heard from any of them discrediting these photos. I don’t think it’s long until we’ll all know for sure, but my guess based off of those reasons is that this must be the new non legacy sedan based ‘Outback’. 😬
I have no choice but to wait for the next gen. I plan on buying the Outback Wilderness (loaded and with even more extras) as a retirement car and that will be 4 years away. So I guess it'll be model year 2029 (buying Nov 2028 for example). I hope they continue with them and make them even better.
Nice video about what is known about the 2026 Outback. I'm also one of the early owners of an OBW (2022 model, silver, like yours); bought mine in July 2021. I now have 93,000 miles on it and have been quite happy with my OBW (best Outback I've owned; had two previously). I don’t see why I should make a change, as this OBW is very comfortable to drive and so far very reliable. I haven’t had any problems with the turbo or the CVT. I did add the wind deflectors for the windows (from Amazon) so when I'm car camping I can lower the windows an inch or two without having to worry about rain getting in the car. I also increased the window tinting on the driver side and passenger side windows for more privacy and heat deflection. I also added cross rails on the roof rack (Turtle from Amazon). Recently I replaced all the OEM speakers with after-market speakers (Alpine S2-S65C for the front doors and tweeters in the dash, and JBL Club 64FSL for the rear doors), and the sound quality is now much better. I also felt that the after-market speakers would last longer than the cheap OEM speakers. I also recently replaced the interior dome light bulb, the cargo area light bulb and the rear backup light bulbs with brighter LED bulbs. I know a lot of people use the Diode Dynamics bulbs, but they just seemed too expensive to me, especially after adding in the high shipping costs, so I just went on eBay and bought some cheap Auxito LED light bulbs (2400 LM, 6000K, 12V; replaces the 912 and 921 bulbs) and they seem to work fine. I agree with you that the wireless charging pad is one of the worst features of the OBW, but it is a minor irritant. I also hate the Auto Stop/Start feature and turn it off whenever I start the car. I also had to replace the windshield 3 times in the first year, but after that I haven't had to replace the windshield. I was also having random re-booting of the computer system, but the Nov 2023 update seems to have totally fixed that problem, fortunately. At 60,000 miles I did replace the Yokohama Geolander tires with new tires (same model and brand, as I like the way they ride and sound). Like you, I've also never had to use the full size spare tire and don't include it in the tire rotations. Also replaced the rear brake pads at 60,000 miles, but the front brake pads have plenty of pad thickness left. Also replaced the spark plugs at 60,000 miles. I also do the normal oil/filter changes, air filter and cabin air filter changes. I'm still using the original wiper blades, but probably need to get new ones before the winter storms arrive. I don't get quite the good gas mileage you get, but it is about what I expected. Great vehicle, especially for all the fly fishing, camping and golfing that I do, so I'm planning to keep it long-term, hopefully to around 300,000 miles (each of my previous Outbacks got to around that 300,000 mark).
Thank you for sharing such a detailed list of the mods you’ve done! I’m glad you’re enjoying it so much and hope it continues to meet or exceed your expectations!
I wanted an SUV for my wife, so we bought an Ascent. I was looking at getting myself an Outback, because I like CARs. I don't want an SUV. This makes me kinda sad.
I get that. I hope it is surprisingly good. The eye witness reports of it from the NDA event make it sound pretty cool. But if it’s not a wagon don’t call it an outback, just my own opinion. 😅
For sure! I don’t ‘think’ they would try to stuff a third row in a similarly sized vehicle. No way the safety rating would be decent for the back row. Even the 3rd row in the 16.5’ Ascent is too small. I wish they made the new Outback, still a wagon, but a few inches longer to try and have 40 cubic feet of storage. That would be sweet and look like an old school wagon!
I like the way the Outback is currently configured. I have two Crosstreks (2018 and 2024). All my kids are grown up and I do not carry as much stuff on my long road trips. I really like the 24 Sport Crosstrek. It is comfortable and is nimble for me (compared to my 14 Outback which is what I traded in). Although in a few years, I may replace my wife's 18 Crosstrek with a new Outback or Forrester.
I'm curious how you have liked the infotainment in yours? We have a 16' for my wife but are thinking of getting a 25' before the new model. But, the infotainment seemed quirky when looking at it. Curious how it is to live with long term. I am more of a physical button person for hvac etc. The premium model seemed to be the sweet spot as far as holding value.
I also think the Premium is a sweet spot! I don’t like the infotainment system, unless in Apple CarPlay, then it’s awesome. I didn’t mention this but the new Outback might have a new system.
@@AutomotiveAnonymous208 Yeah, just hear it's pretty glitchy. I heard the new one will have new infotainment too. But, I never buy a first year vehicle so will have to choose between 25' or 27'/28'.
Maybe because I use an iPad daily , But I actually I like the infotainment screen on our 25 OBW. No issues with it so far. Came from a Crosstrek, test drove all the XT’s. Loved the Wilderness for its increased right height, the darker seats with a black headliner. The copper colored stitching and trim pieces and after driving them all back to back I felt the OBW had the best acceleration. Also liked the exterior looks. Ours is Geyser blue, love the color too, but to me the OBW looks great in any of the available colors. Briefly thought about waiting to see a 26 but we’re old and the older you get the less you want to wait.
Just got my 1st Subaru! I bought a 2024 outback wilderness, same color as yours. I wanted white and black accents but they didn’t have any on the lot. Mine was a courtesy 10:15 vehicle and had 6000 miles on it, Purchased it for 36000, I traded my 2013 LTZ Tahoe on it 😔, My thoughts thus far….. I do miss driving something that is very commanding on the road, the higher ride height and just the overall impression of the vehicle. I drove a Yukon for 8 year prior to the Tahoe. I don’t miss the $80 dollar fill ups!!!! And the whopping 14 miles to the gallon! The Subaru is fun to drive, I average 23-25 mpg’s if I stay out of the turbo! Lol….. I did get the 100000 bumper to bumper Subaru warranty, and the selling point was my golf clubs fit horizontally in the back hatch 😂, but all in all I do enjoy driving it, way easier to get in out out of parking spots and I really love the look! I watched all you videos on your before buying mine, you were the reason I went to test drive one, this vehicle wasn’t even on my radar so thank you for the extremely detailed wilderness videos!!!! You have a great selection of content so great job & thank you !!!!!
That’s so awesome, I’m glad you’re enjoying it!! Super ironic timing that you post this today when my newest video from today shares why I just sold mine haha. But it’s not the car it’s me, and in many ways the Wilderness is better than my new car to be honest lol.
whatever they do I hope they keep the plastic off the doors that they put on the new Crosstrek and tone down the gold accents they are putting all over everything on the wilderness edition. If someone offered me a free Crosstrek wilderness right now I think I'd turn it down based on the plastic/gold theme. Your 2022 looks great! They need to keep the styling more like that.
I bought a 2024 outback wilderness in july. I like it. been driving a 2015 forester for the past 10 years. the outback was bigger than I realized. parking in parking lots is kind of annoying cause i don't want people to ding my doors. I end up driving my forester more. I like the outback for leisure drives and road trips.... I'll probably keep it for a long time cause I barely put miles on it, and always have a smaller car for driving to work and running errands.... I had a loaner crosstrek that was lots of fun. I recently drove a Mazda CX-30 that is decent. I don't like the infotainment on the mazda... the outback is really comfortable and I find I like it more after I drive other cars. mine's white. I am glad I have this style, the 2026 looks boring.
I totally get that!! The more cars I drive the more I loved how the Outback I had drove. Subaru really did a good job with them and one the Geolanders they feel like a tank in the winter!
I look forward to taking it snowboarding this winter. I always had cooper discoverer at3 on my forester but recently got the falken wild peak at trail for the forester. I remember reviews saying the geolanders were kind of slippery in the snow. the cooper's slid a bit so I look forward to seeing how the geolanders do. I hated the OEM tires on my forester so I kind of wrote off yokohama tires.... ;)
If you want a wagon, then get the 25. I got my 24 Outback in June 23. The 26 has turned the Outback into a SUV. Subaru is getting rid of something unique. They need to bring the Levorg Layback to the U.S. That’s basically a wagon version of the WRX , old Impreza sedan. The Layback version of the Levorg is the Levorg getting the Outback treatment.
Im expecting the forester hybrid by May 2025, crosstrek hybrid by August 2025, the full redesign outback by August as well and the hybrid outback by May 2026
I will be so disappointed if the current Outback is redesigned to what every other brand is designing. I hate what they did to the Forester and I am praying they didn’t ruin the Outback.
I’m surprised they haven’t. I think the reason might be it’s then too tall to go down the assembly line. That’s apparently why the other 3 Wilderness models have different ground clearance. If they were any higher they wouldn’t clear the assembly machines. 🤷♂️😅
I doubt it, they still don't have a Wilderness model Forester for the 2025 model year, so I doubt they're gonna carry on the Wilderness much longer for any of the models.
Last I heard, the Ascent is on the chopping block. If I hadn't heard that, I would have thought this one that's being called the next Outback was the next Ascent redesign.
Got a 2025 geyser blue loaded out. 2.9apr 72 months. The new one will look like everything else and not unique. Also have an even smaller motor with hybrid mess on it.
Yes!! Thanks for mentioning this and sorry I didn’t. It sounds like the engines are the same options, which in typical Subaru fashion shouldn’t be surprising.
@@AutomotiveAnonymous208 Yeah from what I have heard from dealers that attended the event is that the new hybrids will only be in the Crosstrek and the Forester.
I don’t understand how it’s taking them so long to reveal what their hybrid set up is going to be. I guess in Subaru’s defense usually once they unveil something it actually rolls out to production very quickly. But still, people want to know what they should plan to buy before it’s too late to have as many choices.
@@AutomotiveAnonymous208 I don't think the new hybrid setup will be anywhere close to earth shattering. I feel it'll be better than their current hybrid but not by much. I say this based on what's been shown. IMO, the hybrid battery is too small and they know it. That's why why they're gas tank is going to be so large.. just to extend the over all miles you can get per tank. I hope they prove me wrong and the 26 hybrid Forester is rated at 40mpg because on long trips, I can easily get 33 hwy mpg on my 2020 Forester. I guess I'm saying I need to see a 20% jump in fuel mileage to make it work while for me.
If subaru changes the shape of the 2026 Outback it'll be like a Forester type and both will compete with eacheother to some degree althout the Outback will be more spacious, I assume. I've been drawn to station wagons for many years and wouldn't like the Outbck to become another purely oversized and tall suv. But that's me. The Outback is fine as it's unless SOA sees its sales slipping, which that's a marketing/sales issue. Me? I'm just a consumer. The Outback is an overkill for me, but is great car and great looking. I call my Crosstrek a baby Outback, both are great. My two cents.
I would get a 2025 outback based on the not liking the camo '26 Outback. But I can't do it because I just don't trust the TCV valve on the current outback. Why? Because the one in my 2020 Forester took a crap!
The camo is just a cover to hide its identity since the exterior is also maybe not production level yet. But that would be an interesting paint color and I might be into it haha. I’m sorry to hear about your TCV failure, the 2025 Forester ditched that and went back to an old school thermostat. Hopefully the new Outback 2.5 does the same.
Most people keep vehicles for a long time. I sold a 15 year old Toyota SUV base model for $9k. The new Outback will be interesting for sure. I’m surprised they’d go away from there wagon, it’s been printing money for them.
Yeah, hopefully it’s surprisingly good! Those who report having seen it in person say that it looks cool. I just don’t like it when manufacturers carry on names that don’t represent the original product in some major degree. If it’s not a wagon, just call it the Forester XL or something lol.
Everyone is assuming. But those who have seen it at the LV reveal a few months ago don’t seem to be arguing that this isn’t the same vehicle now in camouflage for street testing.
Yeah, at least the reports from those who have seen it unveiled in person say it looks good. But if it doesn’t look like an Outback, why call it one other than for marketing? 🤦♂️
My thoughts as well, still no Forester Wilderness model for 2025, so I guess I'll look elsewhere for a new vehicle....I wanted a Forester Wilderness, but I should have known that it would be a very short lived model option and not have gotten my hopes up. I'll just put the money into my 2003 Jeep Liberty and not have a car payment...My liberty only has 137k on it anyways, so its not worn out, I just need to get caught back up on routine maintenance again.
@@AutomotiveAnonymous208 Unless I'm mistaken, only dealers have seen the redesign and I don't trust them. It's in their interest to talk up a new model, since it's their bread and butter. IMO, the pics of the one in CAMO is too SUV like, with butt ugly lines. If the '25 OB didn't have the TCV, I would jump on it.
I would be disappointed if the wagon look went away… to my way of thinking it wouldn’t be an Outback anymore…. Have not pulled the trigger on one yet but it’s been on my radar..I’m probably 2 years away from a vehicle change…. By that time perhaps I could find a lightly used 2 year old 2025!… which is my usual procedure.
That sounds like a great plan! I also don’t want it to go away. But if it’s not going to look like an Outback they shouldn’t call it one, imo. Maybe the Forester XL? Lol.
It’s just preference. Say a bumper 2 bumper and powertrain 10 year warranty is $2-2.5k, that’s a lot of money but you’re buying peace of mind. If labor rates are probably $150/hour it wouldn’t take very many very small component failures within that time frame to pay for itself. Let alone a ~$6-8k engine or 8$k CVT. We got a good deal on our Foresters warranty to the point it was a no brainer to not worry about further expenses down the road. Also, I’m sure you could imagine labor rates and repairs will likely only cost a lot more in another 5-10 years but you locked into the cheap warranty extension price today. Just one way to think about it.
I sure hope so! But what do you think of the split headlight design?? I don’t know that Subaru would reengineer the whole front fascia just for that one trim level, but maybe?
Well now I have a serious decision to make. I was going to wait until the 2026 came out but I think Subaru just made me decide to get a 2025.I think it is a bad decision if Subaru decides to turn the Outback into a boxy SUV like everything else. Now to decide trim level for a 2025! ONYX XT or Touring XT.
I’m sure they’ll do an actual reveal event soon, maybe Sema or another auto show. So you have time to get more confirmed information before they stop producing 2025s. Also the closer to the new gen the better deals they’ll probably be. As long as you don’t wait to long and not get to choice all of your option/color of preference. It’s a tough choice. Basically how we felt with getting a 2024 or 2025 Forester. I missed the opportunity to get a white 2024, but I’m glad we decided on the 2025 at the end of the day.
@@AutomotiveAnonymous208 i really liked what they did with the 2025 Forester. I was hoping they would do something similar with the Outback. I am looking at April so I guess I have until February to order one.🤞🤞🤞
That would be really funny if it was and all of us who assume it’s the Outback is flat out wrong. I haven’t heard anything about a new gen Ascent, so that’s why I’ve assumed this is the OB. 🤷♂️😝
The new Outback’2026 is definitely a throwback to the 2010 Forester. The split headlights and cheesy grille are a weird retro horror in general. And it looks like they're copying the square wheel arches like most other SUV manufacturers. My goodness, I'm so glad I had time to buy the gorgeous current 2023 Outback body. And I'll definitely be looking at another manufacturer in about 5 years. A bogeyman. All I see here is a set of borrowings from other car companies
Subaru has lost its way. I am a happy current outback owner(2018) and have owned 4 subarus over the years. Loved them all. Will not buy another one though until they get rid of the "ipad" screen and stop changing the exterior to look like every other generic car manufacturer.
Yeah, for sure! I do like round wagons but maybe this new one will surprise a lot of us. It sounds like the few people who have actually seen this in person uncovered really like it. 🤷♂️😅
The split headlight on the bottom of the drl design is such an ugly trend and I really thought it was going away but GM has decided to make it their entire identity and now Subaru looks like they are jumping on the train. So sad. And the Kia looking nose dip in the hood sheet metal at the top middle of the grille is so bad. I’m so disappointed
I just purchased a 2025 outback wilderness. Somewhat disappointed how terrible the camera quality is. I also have a 2023 crosstrek limited which resolution seems to be better. Go figure?
I think they ruined it, sad sad sad…. I have a 21 touring xt, is the best car still, almost 4 years and going like new. I have owned 4 Subarus, this is by far my favorite and i love the car. I was just sad to see them go so mainstream.
I agree in that my Outback was the best vehicle I’ve ever owned. I drove its replacement through some light snow today and already I miss that tank haha.
I hope the wagon never goes away
Same! If this isn’t going to look at least as wagony as the current gen they should just end the Outback name and come up with a new name, IMO. Some people already argue the Outback doesn’t look like a wagon because it’s not as extreme as some other old school wagons.
I just bought a 2025 Legacy XT Touring to replace my 2005 legacy gt wagon. I bought it new, I had a ‘99 leg gt wagon before that. I love wagons, and legacy’s, and though I don’t personally care for them, it made me happy a legacy-based wagon was still in the world. It’ll be sad to see them completely gone. And a dumb move from Subaru
I just brought home a new 2025 Outback Wilderness yesterday in autumn green, and I'm absolutely loving it. It's beautiful. I'm glad I didn't wait for the 2026 as I don't like that boxy look.
Great choice! I’m sure we really can’t go wrong anyway, but I think a 2025 is a solid choice.
Ha.. I got the 2025 Onyx in green this past Thursday. I came to the same decision by not waiting for the ‘26. Good luck with your new ride
@boballard6040 Awesome! I hope you are enjoying it as much as I am! The Autumn Green is just beautiful!
@@Gossamer2 you don’t need an outback wilderness for the school run. Boxy means lots of room. I cannot even get a dog cage on my 2016 Forester Xt much as I like it. I preferred the boxy shape of the earlier classic (boxy) forester XTs.
I really like the look of it. It reminds me of my old Outback. 2.5 and boxy. If an estate car isn’t boxy there isn’t enough room in the back of it. This new vehicle looks so sensible and practical.
Great job thanks for the video! I just bought a 2025 Wilderness, same color as yours 2 days ago. I love it
Nice!!
I’ve seen this “spy” photo elsewhere. How do we know it is a new Outback and not a Forester Wilderness or some new Ascent? I find it very hard to believe Subaru would give up the wagon, since it is so successful.
The big magazines have assumed it’s the new Outback, which I would imagine and hope they are pretty certain in speculations before putting out any statements. In various spy photos you can basically tell it’s a Subaru badge on the front and definitely Subarus rear suspension set up. I don’t think it’s the Forester Wilderness because the front fascia is so different and the split headlight design as well as the longer rear over hang. Also these spy photos do look like the description of it by those at the NDA events and I haven’t heard from any of them discrediting these photos.
I don’t think it’s long until we’ll all know for sure, but my guess based off of those reasons is that this must be the new non legacy sedan based ‘Outback’. 😬
I have no choice but to wait for the next gen. I plan on buying the Outback Wilderness (loaded and with even more extras) as a retirement car and that will be 4 years away. So I guess it'll be model year 2029 (buying Nov 2028 for example). I hope they continue with them and make them even better.
Nice video about what is known about the 2026 Outback. I'm also one of the early owners of an OBW (2022 model, silver, like yours); bought mine in July 2021. I now have 93,000 miles on it and have been quite happy with my OBW (best Outback I've owned; had two previously). I don’t see why I should make a change, as this OBW is very comfortable to drive and so far very reliable. I haven’t had any problems with the turbo or the CVT. I did add the wind deflectors for the windows (from Amazon) so when I'm car camping I can lower the windows an inch or two without having to worry about rain getting in the car. I also increased the window tinting on the driver side and passenger side windows for more privacy and heat deflection. I also added cross rails on the roof rack (Turtle from Amazon). Recently I replaced all the OEM speakers with after-market speakers (Alpine S2-S65C for the front doors and tweeters in the dash, and JBL Club 64FSL for the rear doors), and the sound quality is now much better. I also felt that the after-market speakers would last longer than the cheap OEM speakers. I also recently replaced the interior dome light bulb, the cargo area light bulb and the rear backup light bulbs with brighter LED bulbs. I know a lot of people use the Diode Dynamics bulbs, but they just seemed too expensive to me, especially after adding in the high shipping costs, so I just went on eBay and bought some cheap Auxito LED light bulbs (2400 LM, 6000K, 12V; replaces the 912 and 921 bulbs) and they seem to work fine. I agree with you that the wireless charging pad is one of the worst features of the OBW, but it is a minor irritant. I also hate the Auto Stop/Start feature and turn it off whenever I start the car. I also had to replace the windshield 3 times in the first year, but after that I haven't had to replace the windshield. I was also having random re-booting of the computer system, but the Nov 2023 update seems to have totally fixed that problem, fortunately. At 60,000 miles I did replace the Yokohama Geolander tires with new tires (same model and brand, as I like the way they ride and sound). Like you, I've also never had to use the full size spare tire and don't include it in the tire rotations. Also replaced the rear brake pads at 60,000 miles, but the front brake pads have plenty of pad thickness left. Also replaced the spark plugs at 60,000 miles. I also do the normal oil/filter changes, air filter and cabin air filter changes. I'm still using the original wiper blades, but probably need to get new ones before the winter storms arrive. I don't get quite the good gas mileage you get, but it is about what I expected. Great vehicle, especially for all the fly fishing, camping and golfing that I do, so I'm planning to keep it long-term, hopefully to around 300,000 miles (each of my previous Outbacks got to around that 300,000 mark).
Thank you for sharing such a detailed list of the mods you’ve done! I’m glad you’re enjoying it so much and hope it continues to meet or exceed your expectations!
I wanted an SUV for my wife, so we bought an Ascent. I was looking at getting myself an Outback, because I like CARs. I don't want an SUV. This makes me kinda sad.
I get that. I hope it is surprisingly good. The eye witness reports of it from the NDA event make it sound pretty cool. But if it’s not a wagon don’t call it an outback, just my own opinion. 😅
I hope they don't make it a 3 row vehicle. That is something I have absolutely no use for.
For sure! I don’t ‘think’ they would try to stuff a third row in a similarly sized vehicle. No way the safety rating would be decent for the back row. Even the 3rd row in the 16.5’ Ascent is too small. I wish they made the new Outback, still a wagon, but a few inches longer to try and have 40 cubic feet of storage. That would be sweet and look like an old school wagon!
I like the way the Outback is currently configured. I have two Crosstreks (2018 and 2024). All my kids are grown up and I do not carry as much stuff on my long road trips. I really like the 24 Sport Crosstrek. It is comfortable and is nimble for me (compared to my 14 Outback which is what I traded in). Although in a few years, I may replace my wife's 18 Crosstrek with a new Outback or Forrester.
I'm curious how you have liked the infotainment in yours? We have a 16' for my wife but are thinking of getting a 25' before the new model. But, the infotainment seemed quirky when looking at it. Curious how it is to live with long term. I am more of a physical button person for hvac etc. The premium model seemed to be the sweet spot as far as holding value.
I also think the Premium is a sweet spot! I don’t like the infotainment system, unless in Apple CarPlay, then it’s awesome. I didn’t mention this but the new Outback might have a new system.
@@AutomotiveAnonymous208 Yeah, just hear it's pretty glitchy. I heard the new one will have new infotainment too. But, I never buy a first year vehicle so will have to choose between 25' or 27'/28'.
Maybe because I use an iPad daily , But I actually I like the infotainment screen on our 25 OBW. No issues with it so far. Came from a Crosstrek, test drove all the XT’s. Loved the Wilderness for its increased right height, the darker seats with a black headliner. The copper colored stitching and trim pieces and after driving them all back to back I felt the OBW had the best acceleration. Also liked the exterior looks. Ours is Geyser blue, love the color too, but to me the OBW looks great in any of the available colors. Briefly thought about waiting to see a 26 but we’re old and the older you get the less you want to wait.
Just got my 1st Subaru! I bought a 2024 outback wilderness, same color as yours. I wanted white and black accents but they didn’t have any on the lot. Mine was a courtesy 10:15 vehicle and had 6000 miles on it, Purchased it for 36000, I traded my 2013 LTZ Tahoe on it 😔, My thoughts thus far….. I do miss driving something that is very commanding on the road, the higher ride height and just the overall impression of the vehicle. I drove a Yukon for 8 year prior to the Tahoe. I don’t miss the $80 dollar fill ups!!!! And the whopping 14 miles to the gallon! The Subaru is fun to drive, I average 23-25 mpg’s if I stay out of the turbo! Lol….. I did get the 100000 bumper to bumper Subaru warranty, and the selling point was my golf clubs fit horizontally in the back hatch 😂, but all in all I do enjoy driving it, way easier to get in out out of parking spots and I really love the look! I watched all you videos on your before buying mine, you were the reason I went to test drive one, this vehicle wasn’t even on my radar so thank you for the extremely detailed wilderness videos!!!! You have a great selection of content so great job & thank you !!!!!
That’s so awesome, I’m glad you’re enjoying it!! Super ironic timing that you post this today when my newest video from today shares why I just sold mine haha. But it’s not the car it’s me, and in many ways the Wilderness is better than my new car to be honest lol.
Very well done video with solid information. Also credit to you for being up & outside so early in the morning! Lol
Haha thanks! It’s getting tough to fit videos in with my full time therapy work and family/life obligations. But I’m determined to keep at it! 😉
whatever they do I hope they keep the plastic off the doors that they put on the new Crosstrek and tone down the gold accents they are putting all over everything on the wilderness edition. If someone offered me a free Crosstrek wilderness right now I think I'd turn it down based on the plastic/gold theme. Your 2022 looks great! They need to keep the styling more like that.
Spray paint exists
I bought a 2024 outback wilderness in july. I like it. been driving a 2015 forester for the past 10 years. the outback was bigger than I realized. parking in parking lots is kind of annoying cause i don't want people to ding my doors. I end up driving my forester more. I like the outback for leisure drives and road trips.... I'll probably keep it for a long time cause I barely put miles on it, and always have a smaller car for driving to work and running errands.... I had a loaner crosstrek that was lots of fun. I recently drove a Mazda CX-30 that is decent. I don't like the infotainment on the mazda... the outback is really comfortable and I find I like it more after I drive other cars. mine's white. I am glad I have this style, the 2026 looks boring.
I totally get that!! The more cars I drive the more I loved how the Outback I had drove. Subaru really did a good job with them and one the Geolanders they feel like a tank in the winter!
I look forward to taking it snowboarding this winter. I always had cooper discoverer at3 on my forester but recently got the falken wild peak at trail for the forester. I remember reviews saying the geolanders were kind of slippery in the snow. the cooper's slid a bit so I look forward to seeing how the geolanders do. I hated the OEM tires on my forester so I kind of wrote off yokohama tires.... ;)
If you want a wagon, then get the 25. I got my 24 Outback in June 23. The 26 has turned the Outback into a SUV. Subaru is getting rid of something unique. They need to bring the Levorg Layback to the U.S. That’s basically a wagon version of the WRX , old Impreza sedan. The Layback version of the Levorg is the Levorg getting the Outback treatment.
Im expecting the forester hybrid by May 2025, crosstrek hybrid by August 2025, the full redesign outback by August as well and the hybrid outback by May 2026
I will be so disappointed if the current Outback is redesigned to what every other brand is designing. I hate what they did to the Forester and I am praying they didn’t ruin the Outback.
I agree, hopefully it still looks like a wagon. The current one already doesn’t have a huge over hanging like the old school ones!
Why ruin a great design by homogenizing to SUV
Many versions have dual exhaust without turbos
To my understanding the U.S. models with dual exhaust are turbo’d. But I’ve heard that’s not the case in other markets.
I am curious if Subaru will make a Wilderness Ascent. Currently, I am enjoying a 2024 Crosstrek Sport, so I am not looking to upgrade.
I’m surprised they haven’t. I think the reason might be it’s then too tall to go down the assembly line. That’s apparently why the other 3 Wilderness models have different ground clearance. If they were any higher they wouldn’t clear the assembly machines. 🤷♂️😅
I doubt it, they still don't have a Wilderness model Forester for the 2025 model year, so I doubt they're gonna carry on the Wilderness much longer for any of the models.
@@wildbill23c You couldn't be more incorrect. Wilderness models are insanely popular in the US.
Last I heard, the Ascent is on the chopping block. If I hadn't heard that, I would have thought this one that's being called the next Outback was the next Ascent redesign.
I have a 22 ob touring...was thinking if they made a hybrid I might trade in...if they make it boxy I might look at other vehicles...
The 2026+ Outback might be a good replacement for my Forester. Boxy, slightly bigger with a turbo? Yes, please!
Yeah!! The Forester XL 😍
Turbo will be sunset and replaced with a hybrid powertrain. If you still want the turbo, it's your last chance.
Looked like they squared it off. Especially in the nose. The slope in the rear glass also appears to have been raked in. Possibly longer and wider.
I would prefer a Legacy Wagon like the old days, meaning minus all the Outback cladding and added height. Just a slick AWD wagon.
100% agree, that would be cool.
Got a 2025 geyser blue loaded out. 2.9apr 72 months. The new one will look like everything else and not unique. Also have an even smaller motor with hybrid mess on it.
People that attended the non-media event claim that the xt trim is still there.
Yes!! Thanks for mentioning this and sorry I didn’t. It sounds like the engines are the same options, which in typical Subaru fashion shouldn’t be surprising.
@@AutomotiveAnonymous208
Yeah from what I have heard from dealers that attended the event is that the new hybrids will only be in the Crosstrek and the Forester.
I don’t understand how it’s taking them so long to reveal what their hybrid set up is going to be. I guess in Subaru’s defense usually once they unveil something it actually rolls out to production very quickly. But still, people want to know what they should plan to buy before it’s too late to have as many choices.
@@AutomotiveAnonymous208 I don't think the new hybrid setup will be anywhere close to earth shattering. I feel it'll be better than their current hybrid but not by much. I say this based on what's been shown. IMO, the hybrid battery is too small and they know it. That's why why they're gas tank is going to be so large.. just to extend the over all miles you can get per tank. I hope they prove me wrong and the 26 hybrid Forester is rated at 40mpg because on long trips, I can easily get 33 hwy mpg on my 2020 Forester. I guess I'm saying I need to see a 20% jump in fuel mileage to make it work while for me.
Anyone else have phone call issues with your 25 Outback Wilderness? I think they’ve fixed it with a radio update
I rarely take calls through the cars speakers, I don’t think the quality is great. But mine also doesn’t have the better HK system.
They should keep the wagon That's just nuts.
If subaru changes the shape of the 2026 Outback it'll be like a Forester type and both will compete with eacheother to some degree althout the Outback will be more spacious, I assume. I've been drawn to station wagons for many years and wouldn't like the Outbck to become another purely oversized and tall suv. But that's me. The Outback is fine as it's unless SOA sees its sales slipping, which that's a marketing/sales issue. Me? I'm just a consumer. The Outback is an overkill for me, but is great car and great looking. I call my Crosstrek a baby Outback, both are great. My two cents.
Thanks for sharing your 2 cents!!
I have a 2020 Outback, I am looking forward to 360 cameras, but prefer the current style. 😢
I would get a 2025 outback based on the not liking the camo '26 Outback. But I can't do it because I just don't trust the TCV valve on the current outback. Why? Because the one in my 2020 Forester took a crap!
The camo is just a cover to hide its identity since the exterior is also maybe not production level yet. But that would be an interesting paint color and I might be into it haha. I’m sorry to hear about your TCV failure, the 2025 Forester ditched that and went back to an old school thermostat. Hopefully the new Outback 2.5 does the same.
If this new redesign looks anything like a wagon, I'm guessing it's going to look like those old Volvo wagons that had really sharp edges.
Most people keep vehicles for a long time. I sold a 15 year old Toyota SUV base model for $9k. The new Outback will be interesting for sure. I’m surprised they’d go away from there wagon, it’s been printing money for them.
Yeah, hopefully it’s surprisingly good! Those who report having seen it in person say that it looks cool. I just don’t like it when manufacturers carry on names that don’t represent the original product in some major degree. If it’s not a wagon, just call it the Forester XL or something lol.
Is Subaru saying this is the new Outback? Or is everyone assuming?
Everyone is assuming. But those who have seen it at the LV reveal a few months ago don’t seem to be arguing that this isn’t the same vehicle now in camouflage for street testing.
@@AutomotiveAnonymous208 In a side by side photo comparison that I posted elsewhere - the 'Outback' seems bigger than the Ascent.
Interesting! Well I guess we’ll know for sure soon enough. 😅
Great so I’m going to miss out on the classic Subaru and be stuck with a shitty Subaru redesign. I hate companies these days.
Yeah, at least the reports from those who have seen it unveiled in person say it looks good. But if it doesn’t look like an Outback, why call it one other than for marketing? 🤦♂️
My thoughts as well, still no Forester Wilderness model for 2025, so I guess I'll look elsewhere for a new vehicle....I wanted a Forester Wilderness, but I should have known that it would be a very short lived model option and not have gotten my hopes up. I'll just put the money into my 2003 Jeep Liberty and not have a car payment...My liberty only has 137k on it anyways, so its not worn out, I just need to get caught back up on routine maintenance again.
@@wildbill23c New Forester Wilderness is due out this Spring. Many of us are hoping it has the 2.4T with 3,500lb tow rating.
@@AutomotiveAnonymous208 Unless I'm mistaken, only dealers have seen the redesign and I don't trust them. It's in their interest to talk up a new model, since it's their bread and butter. IMO, the pics of the one in CAMO is too SUV like, with butt ugly lines. If the '25 OB didn't have the TCV, I would jump on it.
I would be disappointed if the wagon look went away… to my way of thinking it wouldn’t be an Outback anymore…. Have not pulled the trigger on one yet but it’s been on my radar..I’m probably 2 years away from a vehicle change…. By that time perhaps I could find a lightly used 2 year old 2025!… which is my usual procedure.
That sounds like a great plan! I also don’t want it to go away. But if it’s not going to look like an Outback they shouldn’t call it one, imo. Maybe the Forester XL? Lol.
The key is buy a 2-5 year old car if you are only keeping 2 years anyways. You are loosing your butt in depreciation.
That’s great advice!!
I was planning to purchase a 2026 Outback Onyx XT...but I am NOT liking the spy photos at all! I guess I will need to get a 2025....
Thankfully within a couple months we’ll know for sure what they look like and you’ll still have time to decide before the 2025s are gone!
I hope that’s not an Outback. Shape-wise it rather looks like a next Forester.
If I bought a 2025 Outback,why would I want to buy an expensive 10 year extended warranty if the car has generally been trouble free?
It’s just preference. Say a bumper 2 bumper and powertrain 10 year warranty is $2-2.5k, that’s a lot of money but you’re buying peace of mind. If labor rates are probably $150/hour it wouldn’t take very many very small component failures within that time frame to pay for itself. Let alone a ~$6-8k engine or 8$k CVT. We got a good deal on our Foresters warranty to the point it was a no brainer to not worry about further expenses down the road. Also, I’m sure you could imagine labor rates and repairs will likely only cost a lot more in another 5-10 years but you locked into the cheap warranty extension price today. Just one way to think about it.
Is it supposed to be the Forester wilderness sorry folks out back is not a box
I sure hope so! But what do you think of the split headlight design?? I don’t know that Subaru would reengineer the whole front fascia just for that one trim level, but maybe?
Well now I have a serious decision to make. I was going to wait until the 2026 came out but I think Subaru just made me decide to get a 2025.I think it is a bad decision if Subaru decides to turn the Outback into a boxy SUV like everything else. Now to decide trim level for a 2025! ONYX XT or Touring XT.
I’m sure they’ll do an actual reveal event soon, maybe Sema or another auto show. So you have time to get more confirmed information before they stop producing 2025s. Also the closer to the new gen the better deals they’ll probably be. As long as you don’t wait to long and not get to choice all of your option/color of preference. It’s a tough choice. Basically how we felt with getting a 2024 or 2025 Forester. I missed the opportunity to get a white 2024, but I’m glad we decided on the 2025 at the end of the day.
@@AutomotiveAnonymous208 i really liked what they did with the 2025 Forester. I was hoping they would do something similar with the Outback. I am looking at April so I guess I have until February to order one.🤞🤞🤞
I think the 2026 looks better with the cover on.
Hahaha
That might not be the new Outback but instead a refresh Accent.
That would be really funny if it was and all of us who assume it’s the Outback is flat out wrong. I haven’t heard anything about a new gen Ascent, so that’s why I’ve assumed this is the OB. 🤷♂️😝
The new Outback’2026 is definitely a throwback to the 2010 Forester. The split headlights and cheesy grille are a weird retro horror in general. And it looks like they're copying the square wheel arches like most other SUV manufacturers.
My goodness, I'm so glad I had time to buy the gorgeous current 2023 Outback body. And I'll definitely be looking at another manufacturer in about 5 years.
A bogeyman. All I see here is a set of borrowings from other car companies
The sheep black wheels are hilarious. Why even have any distinguishing design to a plain black blob spinning 60mph. Ppl R stew pad.
Hating the spy photos!
DON'T WAIT, But NOW.
CVT just is a deal breaker.😢
Have you driven the 2.4T with CVT? Easily the best CVT I've ever driven. Feels similar to a traditional auto. Nothing like the 2.5L with CVT.
This redesign is absolutely hideous. It looks like a box from the 80's. Subaru is making a huge mistake.
Subaru has lost its way. I am a happy current outback owner(2018) and have owned 4 subarus over the years. Loved them all. Will not buy another one though until they get rid of the "ipad" screen and stop changing the exterior to look like every other generic car manufacturer.
I get that! Hopefully they listen to their customers.
They must be trying to kill off the outback with the 26 body design. That thing looks like crap.
The 2026 still looks like a wagon, but square'ish.
Yeah, for sure! I do like round wagons but maybe this new one will surprise a lot of us. It sounds like the few people who have actually seen this in person uncovered really like it. 🤷♂️😅
The split headlight on the bottom of the drl design is such an ugly trend and I really thought it was going away but GM has decided to make it their entire identity and now Subaru looks like they are jumping on the train. So sad. And the Kia looking nose dip in the hood sheet metal at the top middle of the grille is so bad. I’m so disappointed
No TURBO- no sale
There should be a turbo, some of the spy photos show an example with dual exhaust!
This is not the new outback more likely an ascent ,
That would be pretty funny if that is all we’re looking at, haha.
@ would be , not sure why they would move away from wagon and become a normal Vehicle
Thats
.... a forester............................
I just purchased a 2025 outback wilderness. Somewhat disappointed how terrible the camera quality is. I also have a 2023 crosstrek limited which resolution seems to be better. Go figure?
Yeah, none of them are great, especially the Outback haha.
OMG...that 2026 looks atrocious.
I think they ruined it, sad sad sad…. I have a 21 touring xt, is the best car still, almost 4 years and going like new. I have owned 4 Subarus, this is by far my favorite and i love the car. I was just sad to see them go so mainstream.
I agree in that my Outback was the best vehicle I’ve ever owned. I drove its replacement through some light snow today and already I miss that tank haha.