2026 Subaru Outback vs 2027 Kia Telluride Hybrid

The 2026 Subaru Outback marked a significant shift in its design, transitioning from a wagon to a more SUV-like appearance. Despite only slight increases in its dimensions, the Outback's blockier and more upright design gave it a more commanding presence. The new rectangular grille and horizontal accent lights contributed to this robust look, while the faceted plastic trim around the body and wheel arches enhanced its rugged appeal. 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 was a welcome change, and the interior materials, even in the base trim, were of commendable quality.

The 2027 Kia Telluride Hybrid presented a bold design that could polarize opinions, particularly with its flat, wide grille. The vehicle's personality varied with color and trim, with the X-Line and X-Pro models offering distinctive grille styles. The side profile showcased angular fender sculpting and unique black plastic tabs, while the rear view adopted a Range Rover-like style with vertical taillights. Inside, the Telluride's interior was less controversial, featuring a simple horizontal dashboard layout. The Hybrid SX Prestige trim offered a luxurious two-tone palette, though the labeling on some buttons was difficult to read. The seats, covered in synthetic leather and suede, were somewhat firm, but the surrounding materials were of excellent quality.

The 2026 Subaru Outback offered two engine choices: a 2.5-liter boxer engine with 180 horsepower and 178 pound-feet of torque, and a turbocharged 2.4-liter boxer-four producing 260 hp and 277 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with a CVT and AWD. The base engine surprised with its performance, providing adequate power for the 3,741-pound Outback. The turbocharged engine offered a noticeable boost in power for a modest price increase. The Outback handled well in both city and highway settings, with a comfortable ride and minimal road noise. Its off-road capability was a highlight, with 8.7 inches of ground clearance and an X-Mode for improved traction. The forthcoming Wilderness model promised even greater off-road prowess.

The 2027 Kia Telluride Hybrid combined a 2.5-liter turbocharged engine with electric motors, producing 329 hp and 339 lb-ft of torque. It was paired with a six-speed transmission and offered in the X-Line trim. The Hybrid provided ample power and a quiet ride, with seamless transitions between electric and gas modes. The Telluride's ride was tuned for comfort, with the X-Pro Prestige trim offering a surprisingly smooth ride despite its off-road suspension. The Hybrid SX Prestige had a stiffer ride due to its larger wheels. On winding roads, the Telluride was composed, though not particularly sporty. The brake pedal required some adjustment, but overall, the Telluride delivered a confident driving experience.

The 2026 Subaru Outback's interior space was impressive, with a total volume of 146.9 cubic feet. The rear seats offered ample legroom, and the larger windows enhanced the feeling of spaciousness. The cargo capacity increased to 34.6 cubic feet behind the rear seats, with a maximum of 80.5 cubic feet with the seats folded. The multifunction cargo cover and robust roof rack added versatility for storage. Subaru's attention to detail was evident in the improved cupholders and door pockets, catering to the needs of active users.

The 2027 Kia Telluride Hybrid provided ample space for adults in all three rows, though the rearmost row was better suited for smaller passengers. The second row featured power-adjustable seats with heating and ventilation in the Hybrid SX Prestige trim. The Telluride offered up to 89.3 cubic feet of cargo capacity with the seats folded, and the Hybrid models lost only about one cubic foot. The Telluride's towing capacity was up to 5,000 pounds, or 4,500 for the Hybrid. The interior featured various storage solutions, including a large center bin and deployable cupholders.

The 2026 Subaru Outback featured a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel and a 12.1-inch infotainment touchscreen. The system was user-friendly, with logical menus and sharp graphics. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were available, along with a wireless charging pad. The climate controls were no longer integrated into the infotainment screen, allowing for easier adjustments.

The 2027 Kia Telluride Hybrid came with a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel and a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen. The system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and dual wireless phone chargers. The infotainment system was generally easy to use, though it required a firm tap to register inputs. The Telluride offered customizable themes for the screen, and the SX trim featured a 14-speaker Meridian audio system.

The 2026 Subaru Outback was equipped with Subaru's EyeSight suite of advanced safety features, including frontal collision warning, adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and more. The Touring trim added premium features like a surround-view camera system and highway pre-curve speed control. While crash test results were not yet available, Subaru's commitment to safety suggested top marks were likely.

The 2027 Kia Telluride Hybrid included standard advanced safety features such as frontal collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. Higher trims offered additional features like a surround-view camera system and blind-spot cameras. The highway driving assist was particularly helpful, though the driver attention monitor had some operational issues. Crash test scores were not yet available.