Subaru's Baby Outback Gets an Update and a Much-Needed Hybrid

An Outback, But Smaller

We previously reported about the Subaru Levorg Layback, but at that time, its supposed discontinuation was announced. Fast forward a few months, and we're glad to report that the facelifted model has just been revealed. Subaru is doing its part in keeping wagons alive.

The Levorg Layback is based on the Impreza and is essentially a Levorg/WRX wagon with a few extra inches of ground clearance and SUV-like bits attached for good measure. You can think of it then as a baby Outback, although the Levorg Layback is about the same size as old Outbacks.

What's New?

As far as we can tell, Subaru didn't really change anything with the exterior. Indeed, there was no mention of it in the press release, as the company highlighted tweaks to the chassis and improvements to the SI-Drive modes. There's also a rearview mirror camera that's now standard on all trims, and, well, that's pretty much it.

But the big news here is the introduction of the hybrid model. It uses the same hardware as the Forester and Crosstrek hybrids, complementing the 1.8-liter turbo model in Japan. It's also easy to distinguish the gas and hybrid Levorg Layback models from one another. The hybrid gets a flat hood, while the turbo model gets a scoop.

The lower-riding Levorg also gets an update for 2026. It benefits from the same drivability improvements from the Layback, although it doesn't get the hybrid system.

Specs and Highlights

Exact specs are yet to be revealed, but it wouldn't be much of a shock if it has the same horsepower and torque ratings. For reference, the hybrid system, dubbed e-Boxer in Japan and worldwide, produces 194 hp and 199 lb-ft of torque. The all-wheel-drive system is slightly different for the electrified model. Like the Crosstrek and Forester hybrids, it uses a specialized version of symmetrical all-wheel drive that constantly powers the rear motor. The motor then shifts power from side to side, like the brand's symmetrical all-wheel-drive system.

The Levorg Layback also benefits from the X-Mode system, so it can handle slightly tougher terrain. The wagon on stilts also has about eight inches of ground clearance, although it doesn't sit as high as an Outback. Still, it should be enough for most.

Given the sales of the Impreza in the U.S, perhaps the Levorg Layback would be a suitable alternative to the slow-selling hatchback. The raised ground clearance should appeal to more people, and those who miss the old shape of the Outback might be more comfortable with this model. Of course, this is merely wishful thinking, as we doubt Subaru of America would like to add a model that could steal sales from its two best-sellers.

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