Subaru’s newly revealed 2026 Outback is already drawing sharp criticism from longtime followers, who say the car has misplaced the distinctive id that made it a cult favourite. 

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Now it simply kinda seems like several ‘ole SUV. 

Social media is buzzing with reactions, as enthusiasts weigh in on the SUV’s main design modifications.

“You need to check on the lesbians in your life right now. They might not know the news, but let me just tell you, they’re not gonna be okay,” stated content material creator Tarra Quinn (@highitstarra) concerning the new Outback.

Quinn shared that her 2022 Outback is getting up there with the miles, so she was curious concerning the new mannequin’s updates. 

“This is what the new Outback is gonna look like in 2026. They went ahead and took the lesbian right out of it, and they put the soccer mom of two,” Quinn stated, displaying an image of the brand new mannequin, which doesn’t look all that distinct from opponents.

“Nothing about this screams I’m gonna get a U-Haul on our second date and move it,” they added.

For them, the shift from the wagon-style design that set the Outback aside to a glance extra harking back to a Hyundai Santa Fe or Kia SUV is a serious disappointment.

@highitstarra Subaru why did you alter the Outback?!?! #subaruoutback2026 #subaruoutbavk #haveyouseenthis ♬ unique sound – Highitstarra | Oklahoma

“Subaru, if you’re reading this, I want you to know I love you, but I’m very upset. Bring back the wagon. Don’t mess with us!” Quinn added in an Instagram direct message. 

The nitty-gritty modifications

Automotive reviewer Tomislav Mikula (@tomislavmikula) supplied a extra technical critique, specializing in the design language and inside modifications. 

“First off, what are those?” he stated of the outside. “The quarter panel here, if you just take away this logo, all I see is Santa Fe. But they also stole the interior. They got rid of the vertical display, and all I see is a Honda.” 

He additionally criticized the entrance finish: “They took away the stars, and instead, they added this logo. But to me, it just looks like it’s Toyota.”

Mikula famous that whereas Subaru changed the vertical show with extra bodily buttons, a transfer geared toward shopper choice, the consequence feels cluttered. 

“Look at the steering wheel, and do not tell me that this is not just overloaded with information. It confuses me just looking at it… they overdid it.”

Functionality is one other sore spot. The Outback’s signature wagon design is gone, changed by a extra SUV-like form, and a few options, just like the dynamic roof crossbars, are not normal.

“The only way to get crossbars is to buy them as an additional thing,” Mikula defined, noting that these crossbars as soon as allowed for versatile storage of drugs.

Despite these criticisms, Subaru maintains key parts that followers love, together with good floor clearance, the symmetrical all-wheel-drive system, and powerful security scores. 

“The design language and the ideology of the Subaru has changed. They’re going for more of a mass appeal rather than it speaking to their core audience.”

Subaru: A queer icon

The Outback has lengthy been greater than only a sensible car; it has grow to be a cultural icon, significantly in lesbian and queer communities. 

On platforms like Tumblr, Reddit, and TikTok, there are many jokes to the impact of: “If you drive a Subaru, you’re probably gay.”

These memes usually describe Subaru homeowners as outdoorsy, socially acutely aware, environmentally conscious, and dog-loving, mirroring stereotypes about queer individuals.

Subaru’s advertising and marketing has additionally leaned into progressive messaging round variety and inclusivity, which has solely strengthened the affiliation. Like the “It’s not a choice, it’s the way we’re built” marketing campaign. 

“As a middle-aged, straight white guy, who has owned 7 Subarus, 2 Outbacks in a row……. I’m also upset they’re removing the gay from Subarus. The new Outback doesn’t deserve my NPR and skate stickers! WE RIOT!” an individual stated.

“I saw a comment from another post saying ‘it’s a 4Runner in drag,’” one other joked.

“Doing this right in front of the Subaru reps is savage,” a commenter identified.

“Oof, they royally messed up. Subaru Outback is a classic OUTBACK. This is a standard SUV now. Definitely not a fan. Kind of like Toyota messing up the new 4Runner. Ugh,” one other added.

The Daily Dot reached out to Quinn through e-mail and Instagram direct message, Mikula through Instagram and TikTok direct message, and Subaru through e-mail.

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