The 2021 Subaru Outback Onyx Edition XT Is Thirsty for Adventure
I walked onto the lot, saw a 2021 Subaru Outback Onyx Edition XT decked out in body-tone rims, a shiny new roof rack and front tow hooks. I remember it clearly, because I walked right past it and headed straight for the Outback’s Premium trim, slightly less cool but still worth the investment.
Even though there’s no Onyx Edition sitting in my driveway, I still think about that sighting of the clearly eager ride. It made me want to investigate. What does the Onyx have on its mind?
The answer was clear: adventure.
What makes the 2021 Subaru Outback Onyx so special?
Aside from its good looks and rugged charm, the 2021 Subaru Outback Onyx Edition XT has numerous trim-specific features that make it worth the splurge. With an MSRP of $35,125 ($250 more than the 2020 variant), this model runs pricier than the base Outback’s $26,795.
With that price hike comes standard features beyond the Premium trim. We’re talking a 2.4-liter turbo SUBARU BOXER® engine for a speedier, more fuel efficient drive. This turbo engine is said to achieve 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque, plus it manages to maintain an EPA-estimated 23/30 city/highway MPG as well as a combined 26 MPG.
Here are some additional features:
- Hands-Free Power Liftgate
- 180-Degree Front View Monitor
- Dual-Mode X-MODE
- Full-size Spare Tire
With black accents on the exterior, exclusive badging and 18-inch wheels (plus a two-tone interior that looks good in dark hues), the Onyx Edition stands on its own four wheels.
The Outback has headlights that are ahead of the curve—literally
Onyx Edition or not, the 2021 Subaru Outback is a step ahead. Smart features like curve-adaptive headlights come standard for the base, Premium and Onyx trims alike.
One of the coolest things about Subaru’s curve-adaptive LED headlights is that it boosts the car’s IIHS safety rating across the model range. For consumers, this makes the Outback a safe option—which reduces car insurance premiums. Whether you’re opting for a lease or purchase, lower car insurance payments are always a good thing.
Aside from the hubbub around car insurance, steering responsive headlights are just plain cool. They’re not perfect, but they approach winding roads with real effort. According to research from the IIHS, these particular headlights project upwards of 300 feet, depending on conditions. For comparison’s sake, the model’s former halogen headlights only hit a 200-foot projection. That’s a clear improvement in the headlight department.
The 2021 Subaru Outback Onyx is specific to North America
The 2021 Subaru Outback Onyx Edition XT showing off its 18-inch black finish alloy wheels this #TireTuesday 😎 Also equipped with a 260-hp Direct-Injection Turbocharged SUBARU BOXER Engine, Dual-Function X-MODE with Hill Descent Control, and 8.7 inches of ground clearance🙌 pic.twitter.com/D4d4Bl75Tp
— Competition Subaru (@SmithtownSubaru) December 15, 2020
Subaru enthusiasts can only buy the 2021 Subaru Outback Onyx Edition XT if they live in North America. In Japan—Subaru’s home country—a similar vehicle goes by the name of Subaru Levorg.
The Levorg actually won the Car of the Year award from a Japanese source, proving it clearly holds its own in the market.
Wherever you’re from, there’s no denying the tactical attractiveness of the Onyx. If your car budget can swing it, it’s a solid upgrade for an already dependable, modernized model.
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