The 2026 Subaru Outback and 2026 Mazda CX-50 offer two-row versatility for drivers who need passenger space, all-weather capability and room for everyday errands or weekend adventures. The Outback features a 2.5L SUBARU BOXER® four-cylinder engine producing 180 horsepower or an available 2.4L turbocharged engine generating 260 horsepower. The Mazda CX-50 offers a 2.5L four-cylinder engine, an available turbocharged version and a separate hybrid model.
For drivers in Libertyville, Gurnee, Grayslake, Mundelein, Vernon Hills and surrounding Lake County communities, Liberty Subaru helps shoppers compare the Outback's engine options, standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, cargo capacity, towing capability, technology and everyday comfort.
2026 Subaru Outback vs. 2026 Mazda CX-50 Key Highlights
| Feature | 2026 Subaru Outback | 2026 Mazda CX-50 |
|---|---|---|
| Standard engine | 2.5L BOXER four-cylinder | 2.5L four-cylinder |
| Standard horsepower | 180 hp | 187 hp |
| Available turbo | 2.4L turbo, 260 hp | 2.5L turbo, up to 256 hp |
| Hybrid option | Not available | Available hybrid, 219 combined hp |
| Drivetrain | Standard Symmetrical AWD | Standard i-ACTIV AWD® on gasoline models; electronic AWD on hybrid |
| Transmission | Lineartronic® CVT | Six-speed automatic on gasoline models; e-CVT on hybrid |
| Maximum towing | Up to 3,500 lbs. on eligible turbo models | Up to 3,500 lbs. |
| Maximum cargo volume | Up to 80.5 cu. ft. | Up to 56.3 cu. ft. |
| Center display | 12.1-inch multimedia touchscreen | 10.25-inch center display |
| Seating | 5 passengers | 5 passengers |
Specifications and equipment vary by trim and powertrain. Towing capacity depends on configuration and proper equipment.
2026 Subaru Outback Gives Drivers Two Engine Choices
The 2026 Outback offers a naturally aspirated 2.5L BOXER® engine producing 180 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque. Drivers seeking stronger acceleration can choose the available turbocharged 2.4L BOXER engine, which generates 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. Both engines pair with a Lineartronic® continuously variable transmission and standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive.
2026 Subaru Outback Performance Highlights
- 2.5L SUBARU BOXER® four-cylinder engine.
- 180 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque with the standard engine.
- Available 2.4L turbocharged engine producing 260 hp and 277 lb-ft of torque.
- Lineartronic® CVT.
- Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive.
- Active Torque Vectoring for improved cornering control.
- 8.7 inches of standard ground clearance.
- Up to 3,500-pound towing capacity on eligible turbo models.
- Up to 9.5 inches of ground clearance on Wilderness models.
2026 Mazda CX-50 Performance Highlights
- Standard 2.5L four-cylinder engine producing 187 hp.
- Available 2.5L turbocharged engine producing up to 256 hp.
- Available CX-50 Hybrid with 219 combined hp.
- Six-speed automatic transmission on gasoline models.
- Electronically controlled continuously variable transmission on hybrid models.
- Standard all-wheel drive across the lineup.
- Up to 3,500-pound towing capacity.
2026 Subaru Outback Supports Four-Season Travel and Outdoor Recreation
Standard Symmetrical AWD helps the Outback maintain traction as road conditions change. Its ground clearance, spacious cargo area and available Wilderness configuration make it a practical option for northern Illinois winters and trips to outdoor destinations. The redesigned 2026 model also features a more upright SUV profile and an updated cabin.
2026 Subaru Outback Utility Highlights
- Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive.
- Five-passenger seating.
- Up to 80.5 cu. ft. of maximum cargo volume.
- 8.7 inches of standard ground clearance.
- Up to 9.5 inches of ground clearance on Wilderness.
- Available power rear gate.
- Roof rails for compatible outdoor equipment.
- Available Wilderness trim for more demanding terrain.
2026 Mazda CX-50 Utility Highlights
- Five-passenger seating.
- Up to 56.3 cu. ft. of cargo volume with the rear seats folded.
- Standard i-ACTIV AWD® on gasoline models.
- Available panoramic moonroof and roof rails.
- Available Meridian Edition with outdoor-oriented styling.
- Up to 3,500 pounds of towing capacity.
- Hybrid powertrain available for drivers interested in electrified driving.
2026 Subaru Outback Connects Drivers With Everyday Technology
The 2026 Outback features a 12.1-inch multimedia touchscreen. Wireless smartphone integration and standard Subaru EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology support everyday driving. Depending on trim, drivers can also access navigation, premium audio and additional convenience features.
2026 Subaru Outback Technology Highlights
- 12.1-inch multimedia touchscreen.
- Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™.
- Standard EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology.
- Available navigation.
- Available Harman Kardon® premium audio.
- Available 360-degree camera system, depending on trim.
2026 Mazda CX-50 Technology Highlights
- 10.25-inch center display.
- Mazda Connect™ infotainment system.
- Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™.
- Available Alexa Built-in.
- Blind Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross Traffic Alert.
- Available Bose® premium audio on selected trims.
What Do Automotive Experts Say About the 2026 Subaru Outback?
Car and Driver highlights the 2026 Outback's passenger space, cargo capacity, off-road capability and dashboard controls. The publication lists its strengths as:
“Spacious rear seat and cargo area, decent off-road capability, friendly dashboard controls.”Source: Car and Driver, 2026 Subaru Outback Review
What Are 2026 Subaru Outback Owners Saying?
A 2026 Subaru Outback Premium owner reviewing the vehicle on Cars.com praised its ride quality and updated interior controls, writing:
“The car drives great (super smooth/quiet) and the new interior/driver controls are fantastic.”
The owner also noted improvements to the climate and entertainment systems compared with the 2025 Outback.
Source: Cars.com, 2026 Subaru Outback Consumer ReviewsWe Help Libertyville Drivers Compare the 2026 Subaru Outback
At Liberty Subaru, we help shoppers compare Outback trims, engine options, all-wheel-drive capability, towing requirements, cargo space and driver-assistance features. Our dealership is located at 1000 E Park Ave in Libertyville, Illinois, and serves drivers from Gurnee, Grayslake, Mundelein, Vernon Hills and nearby Lake County communities.
Whether you're commuting along Route 45, traveling on I-94, driving through winter weather or planning a weekend outdoors, our team can help you explore available Outback models and arrange a test drive.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2026 Subaru Outback vs. Mazda CX-50
How much horsepower does the 2026 Subaru Outback produce?
The standard 2.5L BOXER® engine produces 180 horsepower. Available turbocharged models produce 260 horsepower.
Does every 2026 Subaru Outback have all-wheel drive?
Yes. Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive is standard throughout the 2026 Outback lineup.
How much can the 2026 Subaru Outback tow?
Outback models with the standard engine can tow up to 2,700 pounds. Eligible turbocharged models can tow up to 3,500 pounds.
Where can Lake County drivers explore the 2026 Subaru Outback?
Liberty Subaru is located at 1000 E Park Ave in Libertyville, Illinois. Our team can help you compare available Outback models and schedule a test drive.