Subaru Outback vs Hyundai Palisade Hybrid

The 2026 Subaru Outback underwent a significant transformation, adopting a more SUV-like appearance while maintaining its wagon roots. Despite only a slight increase in size, the Outback's new blocky and upright design gave it a more commanding presence. The rectangular grille, horizontal accent lights, and boxy headlights contributed to its robust look. The rugged aesthetic was further enhanced by faceted plastic trim around the body and wheel arches, creating an illusion of a taller ride height. Inside, the Outback featured a flatter dashboard and a digital instrument panel, with the infotainment touchscreen now positioned atop the dash. The reintroduction of physical climate control buttons and knobs improved usability, while the interior materials, even in the base trim, were of commendable quality.

The 2026 Hyundai Palisade Hybrid was available in two trims: Luxury and Ultimate Calligraphy, both offering style and presence. The base Luxury trim came with 20-inch alloy wheels and a massive grille framed by LED projector headlights. The Palisade's profile featured body-colour, heated side mirrors with power-folding capabilities. The rear view was equally impressive, with wide-spaced letters spelling the vehicle's name and LED taillights wrapping around the corners. Inside, the Palisade Hybrid boasted a comfortable cabin with dual-zone climate control, seven USB-C power outlets, and a second-row bench seat for eight passengers. The interior design was thoughtfully crafted, with organic shapes and well-considered storage solutions.

The 2026 Subaru Outback offered two engine options: a 2.5-litre boxer engine with 180 horsepower and 178 pound-feet of torque, and a turbocharged 2.4-litre boxer-four producing 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque. Both engines were paired with a CVT and standard AWD. The base engine surprised with its performance, providing adequate power for the 1,800-kilogram Outback. The vehicle felt composed and confident on various terrains, with a comfortable interior and relatively quiet cabin. The Outback's off-road capability was a highlight, with 22 centimetres of ground clearance and X-Mode for improved traction.

The 2026 Hyundai Palisade Hybrid featured a 2.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with two electric motors and a 1.65-kWh battery, producing a combined 329 horsepower and 339 pound-feet of torque. The advanced eight-speed automatic transmission and hybrid system optimized power and fuel efficiency. The Palisade Hybrid impressed with its lack of noise and vibration, thanks to noise-absorbing carpet and acoustic glass. The steering was sharp, and the vehicle handled well, although the pedal feel was softer. Overall, the Palisade Hybrid offered a smooth and enjoyable driving experience.

The 2026 Subaru Outback's interior space increased, with a total volume of 3,146 litres. The rear seats accommodated taller adults comfortably, and the cargo capacity expanded to 980 litres behind the rear seats, with a maximum of 2,280 litres with the seatbacks folded. The Outback featured a multifunction cargo cover and a robust roof rack for additional storage. The interior was designed with practicality in mind, with improved cupholders and door pockets.

The 2026 Hyundai Palisade Hybrid offered 2,455 litres of total cargo capacity, trailing some competitors but surpassing others. The second-row legroom was slightly reduced due to the battery's position, but the cabin remained comfortable. The Palisade Hybrid came standard with dual-zone climate control, seven USB-C power outlets, and a second-row bench seat. The interior was filled with cubbies for smaller items, and the centre console featured a rubberized cargo space.

The 2026 Subaru Outback featured a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel and a 12.1-inch infotainment touchscreen with improved processing power and an anti-reflective coating. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The climate controls were no longer integrated into the touchscreen, enhancing usability.

The 2026 Hyundai Palisade Hybrid came with a 12.3-inch touchscreen and digital instrument cluster. It supported HD and Sirius XM satellite radio, wireless Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay. The standard Driver Talk intercom system facilitated communication between rows. The Ultimate Calligraphy trim included a built-in dashcam, and the vehicle introduced "Stay Mode" for running the climate control and infotainment system with the gas engine off.

The 2026 Subaru Outback came with Subaru's EyeSight suite of advanced safety features, including frontal collision warning, adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, blind spot monitoring, and more. Although crash test results were not yet available, Subaru's commitment to safety suggested top marks from safety organizations.

The 2026 Hyundai Palisade Hybrid included a suite of advanced driver assistance systems, such as blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic assist, and automatic emergency braking. The blind-view monitor was standard on higher trims, and the rear doors featured a safe-exit alert indicator. While crash test results were pending, the 2025 Palisade received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS.