By Steve Laser
Subaru is renewing its long-running love affair with dogs in a series of new TV ads. The “Dog Tested. Dog Approved.” campaign features cute canines in creative and heartwarming situations to help promote Subaru’s latest vehicles.
The Chase – Wienermobile Close Encounters
The Oscar Mayer Wienermobile is instantly recognizable to humans wherever it goes. Imagine the reaction that dogs might make when they spot the oversized treat on the road. The commercial, called “The Chase”, highlights the Barkley family’s encounter and features a new 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid.
New Car Smell – Sniffing the Latest EV
Subaru’s all-new 2026 Uncharted is featured in another cute TV spot called “New Car Smell”. The leader of the pack delivers a surprise when he rolls up in the new EV. While the latest Subaru delivers compact crossover charisma, the family is attracted by the irresistible new car smell as they sniff around the exterior and interior.
Handwash – Wilderness Cleanup Crew
The new 2026 Subaru Outback Wilderness looks great whether it’s clean and shiny or covered with mud following an off-road adventure. The “Handwash” commercial shows the canine cleanup crew at work with a garden hose. Yet as the story goes, a friendly pigeon, watching from above, decides to leave a gift on the windshield.
Squeak – Dog Toy Playtime Inside Solterra
Electric vehicles, like the redesigned Subaru Solterra, receive high marks from passengers for their quiet and comfortable interiors. “Squeak” noises inside the cabin would normally be out of character – unless it’s the sound of a cute little dog, playing with a squeaky toy, while riding in the back seat.
New Look – Outback Excites the Neighborhood
Friendly dogs in the neighborhood, going about their business, stop in their tracks and stare when they spot a “New Look”. It’s the redesigned 2026 Subaru Outback, with the Barkley family inside, going for their latest ride-and-drive adventure.
Go Fetch – There’s More To Love
Subaru, and its agency partner Carmichael Lynch, created seven TV commercials for the latest campaign. The automaker says that each spot runs 15- or 30-seconds, and can be viewed on Subaru of America’s YouTube Channel playlist titled, “Dog Tested. Dog Approved.”
Notes: Subaru says that the driving scenes in the TV commercials are “Dramatization. Professional drivers on a closed course. Do not attempt. Always secure your pets.”
News source and photos courtesy of Subaru of America, Inc.
Story (commentary) 2025 by CarNichiWa.com