After years of sticking with boxer engines and hybrid flirting, Subaru has finally unveiled a proper all-electric version of its iconic Outback estate and it’s heading for the UK in 2026. Called the E-Outback, this is a big, chunky AWD EV wagon that promises up to 279 miles of range, 376bhp, and the same go-anywhere attitude that’s made the Outback a cult favourite for decades.
Unveiled as part of a trio of new Subaru EVs for Europe, alongside the E-Ascend and the Uncharted SUV, the E-Outback stands out as the one for those who still love estates over SUVs. And for good reason: it’s fast, it’s spacious, and it still looks like it could eat a muddy B-road for breakfast.
Big power, proper AWD, and no half measures
Power comes from a twin-motor setup good for 376bhp. That’s a massive jump over even the most potent petrol Outback you can buy today, which tops out at 260bhp. Expect a serious slug of torque too , although Subaru hasn’t quoted exact figures yet, it’ll almost certainly deliver that instant EV shove we all know and love.
As you’d hope from Subaru, the E-Outback is still a proper all-wheel-drive machine, not just a front-driven EV with a fancy badge. The two motors (one front, one rear) are independently controlled to deliver maximum grip whether you’re on tarmac, gravel, or a snow-dusted farm track.
Range, charging, and batteries
Subaru claims the E-Outback can manage up to 279 miles on a full charge, though as always you can expect less if you’re hammering it or carrying a full load of dogs, bikes, and camping gear. The battery pack size hasn’t been confirmed yet, but it’ll likely be in the 70–80kWh ballpark to deliver that range figure.
Charging speeds haven’t been detailed either, but Subaru says it’s targeting competitive fast-charging times to keep it in line with rivals like the VW ID.7 Tourer and Polestar 4.
Looks familiar — in a good way
If you’ve seen a current Outback, the E-Outback won’t shock you. It’s still a big, rugged estate with roof rails, black plastic cladding, and plenty of ride height. There are some EV tweaks though, like a smoother grille-less front end and new lighting signatures to set it apart. Inside, expect Subaru’s usual no-nonsense layout updated with bigger screens, new tech, and a cabin trimmed to feel a bit more premium than the utilitarian petrol model.
Part of a wider electric push
The E-Outback is one of three all-electric Subarus announced for Europe in 2025–26. Alongside it are the E-Ascend, a full-size seven-seat SUV, and the Uncharted, a sportier crossover with coupe-SUV vibes. But it’s the E-Outback that sticks closest to Subaru’s traditional values of tough, understated practicality with a side of performance.
When can you buy one?
The E-Outback will land in the UK in 2026, with order books likely opening sometime next year. No word on prices yet, but given the power, the tech, and the market it’s aiming for, expect it to sit above the current top-spec petrol Outback, so think somewhere in the £50–60k range.
Subaru hasn’t revealed full trim levels or options, but you can safely assume it’ll come loaded with safety kit, driver aids, and all the usual Subaru features. It remains to be seen if there’ll be a stripped-back, mud-friendly version for those who just want to take it up a mountain without worrying about the leather seats.
The first proper electric estate you might actually want?
With the E-Outback, Subaru seems to be leaning into what it does best: no-nonsense cars for people who want to go places normal cars can’t. And with a 376bhp AWD electric drivetrain, plenty of range, and all the practicality of an estate, it might just find a whole new audience among younger buyers who still want a car that’s as happy in a car park as it is at a campsite.
More details, and hopefully a full spec sheet, will follow closer to launch. But for now, it’s nice to see Subaru finally embracing the electric future while staying true to its roots.
