The Subaru Outback Is on Track to Get a Direct Rival from Honda

It appears the rumors regarding the Honda Accord Crosstour’s revival are proving true. A new report from Automotive News got the scoop regarding the Japanese automaker’s new product strategy for its next-generation lineup.

Much of said strategy calls for a focus on gas-electric hybrids and SUVs. That’s not surprising, especially given that Honda recently pulled the plug on its electric vehicle strategy.

But within the outline, prospects of another new model stood out even more.

Honda’s going after the soft-roader formula Subaru championed

Honda

According to the report, Honda could be readying a new version of the Accord Crosstour. Per the latest development, Automotive News reportedly uncovered something described as an “Accord SUV.”

Said details say the new “Accord SUV” will debut sometime in 2029. That’s around the same time the next-gen Accord sedan is expected to surface, along with Honda’s next-gen gas-electric hybrid powertrain.

Furthermore, this update follows previous rumors after spy shots surfaced of a lifted wagon-looking sorta prototype from the big Japanese H. Factor in the recent “Hybrid Sedan Concept” from a couple of months ago, and it’s pretty apparent that all roads are leading to a Crosstour revival.

“Automakers are hunting for entry price points they can win at,” an unspecified Honda dealer principal recently told AN. “Subaru has owned this space, and Honda must tackle that market share.”

Honda

Furthermore, Edmunds’ own Ivan Drury also told AN that the Subaru Outback ranks among the top 10 most popular new vehicles. Honda apparently slipped in the rankings on this chart, which caught the brand’s attention.

Now, the brand is itching to claw its way back into relevancy. A lifted wagon may be what it needs to help with this mission.

Could it be the Crosstour’s time to shine?

Honda

It’s been over a decade since Honda last gave us the Crosstour. Originally based on the eighth-generation Accord, it lived for about five years, between 2010 and 2015.

Although its looks were polarizing, many praised the Crosstour for being the perfect compromise. That is to say: the award-winning Accord’s platform and the practicality of a wagon, but without the clunky handling that comes from a more conventional high-rider.

Honda

Despite its cult following, it never really took off in terms of popularity. Honda discontinued the Crosstour due to slowing sales.

However, with off-roading, overlanding and exploring the outdoors exploding in popularity, rugged SUVs and wagons like the Subaru Outback have seen significant growth in their followings as well.

Now, Honda wants to turn back the clock and cash in.

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