Talking Cars 502: Driving the 2026 Subaru Outback

Plus, our experts talk about whether electric vehicle owners must buy EV-specific replacement tires

Mike Quincy, Consumer Reports Content Specialist, Autos.

By Mike Quincy
Content Specialist, Autos

April 15, 2026

Main theme: In this podcast episode, we give our first impressions of the 2026 Subaru Outback. Even though this uber-popular model gets radically different styling compared with the previous version, dimensionally, both are quite similar—except for the roofline, which is a little higher for more headroom.

And in a somewhat unusual twist, we actually bought two versions to test: a Premium model with a 180-hp naturally aspirated 2.5-liter engine and a Touring XT, which brings a 260-hp turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder. Both are paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT).

Our panelists discuss the main differences between the two trim lines and detail their own personal driving experiences. Spoiler alert: The turbocharged mill brings more smiles than the seemingly overmatched base engine.

See our Subaru Outback first drive.

Audience question: I have a 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQS 450+ electric SUV, and I’m looking for replacement tires. Is it always recommended to use EV-dedicated tires, or can I use any tire that fits my car’s specifications?

Read “Tested: The Best Tires for Teslas and Other Electric Vehicles”

Talking Cars 502 podcast panel — “Talking Cars” panelists (from left): Mike Quincy, Ryan Pszczolkowski, and Mike Monticello.

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Recent Podcast Episodes

• Driving the Mazda CX-5, episode 501
• 2026 New York Auto Show Highlights, episode 500
• Driving the Mitsubishi Outlander, episode 499
• The Latest Electric Car Range Test Results, episode 498
• Should You Drive 55 to Save Gas?, episode 497

Talking Cars

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Mike Quincy

Mike Quincy is a writer, editor, podcaster, and tester with the Consumer Reports autos team. He has been with CR since 1993, purchasing more than 160 cars for the test program. Previously, Mike wrote for Automobile Magazine. When he’s not working, Mike can be found training for a long-distance bicycle ride, honing a wide variety of baked goods, or studying the world of mixology in search of the perfect martini.