What’s the 2026 Subaru Outback’s MPG?
What Car Shoppers Need to Know
- Subaru Outback is redesigned for 2026
- Both base and optional turbocharged engines largely carry over.
- Base engine returns a best of 27 mpg combined; turbo tops out at 24 mpg.
Subaru’s popular Outback underwent a major transformation for 2026. The new generation transitions away from the model’s roots as a station wagon and adopts a new form factor that inches closer to the SUVs the Outback is cross-shopped against. It now sits in between those body styles more than ever.
Related: The 2026 Subaru Outback Wilderness Is All the Off-Roader (Most) People Need: Review
But the 2026 Outback’s engine choices are mostly the same as before — completely the same, in the case of the optional turbocharged 2.4-liter flat-four. The standard naturally aspirated loses 2 horsepower, peaking at the same engine speed, and gains 2 pounds-feet of torque 400 rpm later. Drivers are unlikely to detect a change from the 2025 model’s 182 hp and 176 pounds-feet of torque to the 2026’s 180 hp and 178 pounds-feet.
As before, the turbocharged engine generates 260 hp and 277 pounds-feet of torque. A continuously variable automatic transmission and Subaru’s signature all-wheel drive are standard with both engines.
By the Numbers
The 2026 Outback is 100 pounds heavier than its predecessor. Between the additional weight and blockier styling, most trim levels slip 1 mpg from the 2025 model’s EPA fuel-economy ratings.
| 2026 Outback Trim Level | Engine | City MPG | Highway MPG | Combined MPG |
| Premium, Limited, Touring | 2.5-liter four-cylinder | 25 | 31 | 27 |
| Limited XT, Touring XT | Turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder | 21 | 29 | 24 |
| Wilderness | Turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder | 21 | 27 | 23 |
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Versus the SUV Competition
Despite slipping from 2025’s ratings, the Outback remains more efficient than many of its popular competitors. Figures below are for base engines with AWD or four-wheel drive, sorted from highest to lowest combined mpg. It is worth noting, however, that while output from the Mazda CX-50’s standard engine is similar to the Subaru’s, the Jeep and Honda are vastly more powerful.
| Model | Powertrain | City MPG | Highway MPG | Combined MPG |
| 2026 Subaru Outback | 2.5-liter four-cylinder | 25 | 31 | 27 |
| 2026 Mazda CX-50 | 2.5-liter four-cylinder | 24 | 30 | 26 |
| 2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee | 3.6-liter V-6 | 19 | 26 | 22 |
| 2026 Honda Passport | 3.5-liter V-6 | 19 | 25 | 21 |
Versus the Wagon Competition
The Outback is less exceptional when compared to similar station wagons. The Toyota Crown Signia’s standard hybrid powertrain gives it a tremendous advantage. While the Volvo V60 Cross Country is conceptually the Outback’s most direct competitor — a high-riding wagon for adventurous buyers — its standard turbocharged engine generates 67 hp and 80 pounds-feet more than the Subaru’s base engine. Again, figures below are for base engines, sorted from highest to lowest combined mpg. AWD is standard on all three wagons.
| Model | Powertrain | City MPG | Highway MPG | Combined MPG |
| 2026 Toyota Crown Signia | 2.5-liter four-cylinder (hybrid) | 39 | 37 | 38 |
| 2026 Subaru Outback | 2.5-liter four-cylinder | 25 | 31 | 27 |
| 2026 Volvo V60 Cross Country | Turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder | 23 | 31 | 26 |
Related Video:
More Subaru Outback News:
- How Do Car Seats Fit in a 2026 Subaru Outback?
- What Does the 2026 Subaru Outback’s Pricing Mean for Shoppers?
- Redesigned 2026 Subaru Outback Gets Price Bump, Starts at $36,445
- 2026 Subaru Outback Review: Forget the Looks, Enjoy the Ride … and Value and Comfort
- Research the 2026 Subaru Outback
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