Hey folks, Subaru just dropped a bombshell at their big reveal event last week— the 2026 Baja is back! If you’re like me and remember the quirky original from the early 2000s, this one’s got that same fun vibe but cranked up for today’s roads. It’s a compact pickup that’s ready to haul your weekend gear without guzzling gas like those massive trucks. Let’s dive in and see what makes this thing tick.
A Fresh Face That Screams Adventure
First off, the look. The 2026 Baja pulls inspiration from the rugged Outback, with a bold hexagonal grille up front and those sharp Hawk-Eye LED headlights that light up the trail like nobody’s business. The body sits a bit higher with 8.7 inches of ground clearance, wrapped in chunky fender flares and all-terrain tires. That short cargo bed in the back? It’s got a clever fold-down midgate, so you can slide longer stuff right into the cabin if needed. New colors like Geyser Blue Pearl pop against the black cladding, making it feel tough yet city-friendly. It’s about 193 inches long overall—small enough to park anywhere but big enough to carry 1,500 pounds of payload. Subaru nailed that balance; it doesn’t look like just another bland truck.
Power Under the Hood That Packs a Punch
Now, the engine—Subaru’s not skimping here. The base model rocks a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated Boxer four-cylinder with 180 horsepower, smooth and reliable for daily drives. But the real star is the optional 2.4-liter turbocharged Boxer, belting out 260 horses and 277 pound-feet of torque. Paired with a CVT transmission, it zips from 0-60 in under seven seconds. And don’t forget the Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive standard on every trim—that low-slung boxer layout keeps it planted on twisty roads or muddy paths. There’s even talk of a plug-in hybrid eBoxer version down the line, blending gas and electric for even more grunt without the noise.
Cabin Comfort Meets Cutting-Edge Tech
Step inside, and it’s like Subaru read my mind. The interior’s got that cozy Subaru feel with durable cloth seats (leather’s an upgrade) and plenty of room for four adults. Up front, the 11.6-inch STARLINK touchscreen runs the show—wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are plug-and-play, plus over-the-air updates keep things fresh. Voice controls handle calls or tunes without fumbling, and USB ports are everywhere for charging the crew. Safety’s baked in too: EyeSight driver assists with adaptive cruise, lane-keeping, and automatic braking. It’s not flashy like some luxury rides, but it’s smart and straightforward, perfect for long hauls or quick grocery runs.
Impressive Mileage for Real-World Wins
Gas prices got you down? The Baja’s got your back. The base 2.5-liter engine hits about 26 mpg city and 33 highway, for a combined 28-30 mpg—better than most pickups in its class. Opt for the turbo, and you’re still looking at 24/30. That hybrid tease? It could push 35+ mpg combined, making it a champ for commuters who hit dirt roads on weekends. Subaru’s efficient boxer design shines here, keeping your wallet happy without sacrificing that off-road soul.
Showroom Price That Won’t Break the Bank
Pricing’s the cherry on top—starting at around $30,000 for the base Sport trim, climbing to $38,000 or so for loaded Touring models with the turbo and extras. That’s competitive with the Ford Maverick or Hyundai Santa Cruz, but you get Subaru’s legendary durability thrown in. Hit the dealerships mid-2026, and expect waitlists; early birds are already buzzing. If you’re eyeing a versatile daily driver that hauls, tows 3,500 pounds, and handles snow like a pro, the Baja’s your guy.