Subaru drivers are a particularly loyal bunch. They're likely to stick with the Subaru brand if upgrading their car, most likely due to the dependability and functional approach to design that defines these vehicles. For adventurous types, models like the Forester and Outback are especially appealing, and these customers just got something new to get excited about as the new Outback Wilderness has been revealed. Teased by Subaru recently, it's been touted as the most capable Outback yet, with an upgraded suspension and increased ground clearance.

The 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness is far from a beauty queen, but its appearance speaks volumes about its capabilities. This rugged wagon gets new bumpers and a unique hexagonal front grille along with a front skid plate, an anti-glare hood decal, and prominent cladding for the wheel arches. An Anodized Copper finish is applied to the tow hook anchor points and the roof rail tail-down points, while Yokohama Geolander all-terrain tires are wrapped around matte black 17-inch alloy wheels. A tire repair kit won't cut it for an off-road wagon like this, so Subaru has wisely equipped a full-size spare tire.

Compared with the regular Outback, the Outback Wilderness gains close to an extra inch of ground clearance (now 9.5 inches). The approach/ramp breakover/departure angles have increased to 20/21.2/23.6 degrees respectively, up from 18.6/19.4/21.7 degrees. The suspension tuning compensates for the rough terrain this Outback is capable of navigating, while front/rear shocks and springs have seen an increase in length. Power is derived from Subaru's 2.4-liter turbocharged Boxer engine with 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. It's paired with a Lineartronic CVT transmission with paddle shifters. Naturally, the symmetrical all-wheel-drive system is in place, as is an X-Mode function for tackling snow/dirt or even deep snow and mud.

In the cabin, the Outback Wilderness is specified more for durability than luxury. The seats are upholstered in Subaru StarTex, a material that repels water. Contrast copper stitching and the Anodized Copper-finish accents help to lift the environment. There are also brushed aluminum pedals, all-weather floor mats, and the StarLink infotainment system with an 11.6-inch touchscreen. Special X-Mode displays are unique to this model. Pricing for the 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness will be announced later in the year, but we expect it to be the most expensive Outback when it arrives - the current range-topper is the Outback Touring XT that begins at $39,945.