Hey guys! Let's dive into the 2021 Subaru Outback Touring, a vehicle that blends ruggedness with refined comfort. If you're considering this model, you're probably curious about what makes it stand out. Well, buckle up because we're about to explore everything from its engine specs to its interior features, ensuring you have all the juicy details before making a decision.

Engine and Performance

When it comes to the heart of any vehicle, the engine, the 2021 Subaru Outback Touring offers a compelling choice. The standard engine is a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine. This reliable workhorse churns out a respectable 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque. While it might not sound like a powerhouse, it's more than adequate for daily driving and light off-road adventures. The engine is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which Subaru calls Lineartronic CVT. This transmission is designed to maximize fuel efficiency and provide smooth acceleration. Some might find the CVT a bit uninspiring compared to a traditional automatic, but it does a solid job of keeping the engine in its optimal power range.

For those craving a bit more oomph, there's an available 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. This engine is a significant step up, delivering 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. The turbocharger transforms the Outback into a much more spirited performer, making it great for highway merging and tackling steep inclines. The turbocharged engine also comes with the Lineartronic CVT, but it's been beefed up to handle the extra power. This combination results in a driving experience that's both confident and refined.

Fuel economy is always a consideration, and the 2021 Outback Touring doesn't disappoint. The 2.5-liter engine achieves an EPA-estimated 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway. The turbocharged engine sacrifices some efficiency for power, with ratings of 23 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway. These numbers are competitive for the segment and make the Outback a practical choice for both daily commutes and long road trips.

Subaru's symmetrical all-wheel-drive system is standard on all Outback models, including the Touring. This system provides excellent traction in a variety of conditions, from rain and snow to gravel and dirt. The Outback also features X-Mode, which optimizes the all-wheel-drive system for even more challenging terrain. With X-Mode engaged, the Outback can confidently navigate slippery surfaces and maintain stability.

The Outback's suspension is tuned for comfort, providing a smooth and composed ride on most roads. It's not a sports car, but it handles well for its size and purpose. The steering is light and responsive, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces. Overall, the 2021 Subaru Outback Touring offers a balanced and capable driving experience, making it a great choice for those who value versatility and reliability.

Interior and Technology

Step inside the 2021 Subaru Outback Touring, and you'll be greeted by a cabin that's both comfortable and well-equipped. The Touring trim is the top-of-the-line model, so it comes with a host of premium features that enhance the overall experience. Let's start with the seats. They're upholstered in high-quality leather, and the front seats are both heated and ventilated. This means you can stay comfortable no matter the weather outside. The driver's seat also has power-adjustable lumbar support, which is a godsend on long drives.

The Outback Touring boasts an impressive infotainment system. The centerpiece is an 11.6-inch touchscreen display that dominates the center stack. This screen is used to control most of the vehicle's functions, including audio, climate, and navigation. The system is relatively intuitive to use, but some may find the lack of physical buttons a bit frustrating. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are both standard, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone with the car.

Speaking of technology, the Outback Touring comes with a suite of advanced safety features. Subaru's EyeSight driver-assist system is standard, and it includes things like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. These features can help prevent accidents and make driving less stressful. The Touring also gets blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, which are invaluable when changing lanes or backing out of parking spaces.

The interior design is clean and modern, with high-quality materials used throughout. The dashboard and door panels are covered in soft-touch materials, and there are tasteful chrome accents here and there. The overall effect is one of understated elegance. The Outback is also incredibly practical, with plenty of storage space for all your gear. The rear seats fold down to create a massive cargo area, making it easy to haul everything from groceries to camping equipment.

For audiophiles, the Outback Touring comes standard with a Harman Kardon premium audio system. This system includes 12 speakers and a subwoofer, delivering crisp and clear sound throughout the cabin. Whether you're listening to music, podcasts, or audiobooks, you'll appreciate the quality of the audio system. Overall, the interior of the 2021 Subaru Outback Touring is a comfortable and technologically advanced space that makes every drive a pleasure.

Safety Features

When it comes to safety, the 2021 Subaru Outback Touring truly shines, offering a comprehensive suite of features designed to protect you and your passengers. Subaru has always prioritized safety, and the Outback is a testament to their commitment. The EyeSight Driver Assist Technology is a standout, incorporating several advanced systems that work together to enhance your awareness and prevent accidents. Adaptive Cruise Control helps maintain a safe following distance by automatically adjusting your speed to match the traffic ahead. Lane Keep Assist actively guides the vehicle back into its lane if it detects unintentional drifting, reducing the risk of lane departure accidents. Pre-Collision Braking can detect potential collisions and automatically apply the brakes to mitigate or avoid an impact. These features provide an extra layer of security, especially on long drives or in heavy traffic.

In addition to EyeSight, the Outback Touring includes other important safety features such as Blind-Spot Detection with Lane Change Assist and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert. These systems use sensors to monitor the areas around your vehicle that are difficult to see, alerting you to the presence of other vehicles. Blind-Spot Detection warns you when a vehicle is in your blind spot, making lane changes safer. Rear Cross-Traffic Alert is particularly useful when backing out of parking spaces, as it can detect vehicles approaching from the side and alert you to a potential collision. These features significantly enhance your awareness and help prevent accidents in everyday driving situations.

The Outback Touring also boasts a strong and durable structure designed to protect occupants in the event of a collision. The Subaru Global Platform is engineered to provide enhanced crash protection by absorbing and dissipating impact energy. This platform is not only strong but also lightweight, contributing to improved fuel efficiency and handling. The Outback also comes standard with a full suite of airbags, including front, side, and curtain airbags, providing comprehensive protection for all occupants. These airbags are strategically placed to minimize the risk of injury in a variety of collision scenarios.

Furthermore, the 2021 Subaru Outback Touring has earned top safety ratings from leading safety organizations. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has awarded the Outback its Top Safety Pick+ designation, recognizing its exceptional performance in crash tests and its advanced safety features. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has also given the Outback a 5-star overall safety rating, the highest possible score. These ratings provide further reassurance that the Outback is a safe and reliable vehicle for you and your family.

Trim Levels and Options

The 2021 Subaru Outback comes in several trim levels, each offering a different combination of features and equipment. Understanding the differences between these trims can help you choose the one that best fits your needs and budget. The base model is the Outback, which comes standard with features like Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, and a 7-inch touchscreen display. It's a great value for those who want the essential Outback experience without breaking the bank. Stepping up to the Premium trim adds features like an 11.6-inch touchscreen display, heated front seats, and a power driver's seat. This trim offers a good balance of features and affordability.

The Limited trim takes things up a notch with leather upholstery, a Harman Kardon premium audio system, and blind-spot detection with lane change assist. It's a popular choice for those who want a more luxurious experience. The Touring trim, as we've been discussing, is the top-of-the-line model and includes all the features of the Limited trim, plus ventilated front seats, a power moonroof, and a heated steering wheel. It's the ultimate Outback for those who want all the bells and whistles. In addition to these standard trims, there's also the Onyx Edition XT and the Wilderness trim, which offer unique styling and enhanced off-road capabilities. The Onyx Edition XT features blacked-out exterior trim and water-repellent upholstery, while the Wilderness trim boasts increased ground clearance and all-terrain tires.

Each trim level offers a variety of options and packages that allow you to customize your Outback to your liking. For example, you can add a moonroof, a navigation system, or advanced safety features like reverse automatic braking. The availability of these options varies depending on the trim level, so it's important to do your research and understand what's available on each model. You can also choose between the standard 2.5-liter engine and the available 2.4-liter turbocharged engine on certain trims. The turbocharged engine provides significantly more power and is a great choice for those who want a more spirited driving experience.

When choosing a trim level and options, it's important to consider your priorities and budget. Do you value luxury and comfort, or are you more interested in off-road capabilities? Are you willing to pay extra for advanced safety features or a more powerful engine? By answering these questions, you can narrow down your options and choose the Outback that's right for you. It's also a good idea to visit a Subaru dealership and test drive different trim levels to get a feel for their features and performance.

Conclusion

The 2021 Subaru Outback Touring is a standout choice in the crossover SUV market, blending practicality with a touch of luxury. Its standard all-wheel drive, combined with a comfortable interior and advanced safety features, makes it a compelling option for families and adventurers alike. Whether you're navigating city streets or exploring off-the-beaten-path trails, the Outback Touring offers a versatile and reliable driving experience. With its range of trim levels and customizable options, you can tailor the Outback to perfectly suit your needs and preferences. If you're in the market for a capable and comfortable SUV, the 2021 Subaru Outback Touring is definitely worth considering.