Hey guys! Let's dive into the 2021 Subaru Outback Touring, a vehicle that blends rugged capability with luxurious comfort. If you're in the market for a versatile SUV that can handle both daily commutes and weekend adventures, the Outback Touring might just be your perfect match. In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know about its specs, features, and overall performance.

Overview of the 2021 Subaru Outback Touring

The 2021 Subaru Outback Touring stands out in the crowded SUV market with its unique combination of wagon-like practicality and SUV-inspired styling. It's designed for those who need a vehicle that’s as comfortable on city streets as it is on unpaved roads. The Touring trim sits at the top of the Outback lineup, offering a host of premium features and enhanced aesthetics compared to the lower trims. For the 2021 model year, Subaru focused on refining the Outback's technology and safety features, making it an even more compelling choice for families and adventure-seekers alike. The Outback Touring isn't just about getting from point A to point B; it’s about enjoying the journey with a vehicle that’s both capable and refined. With its standard all-wheel drive, spacious interior, and advanced safety systems, the Outback Touring aims to provide a worry-free driving experience, no matter the conditions.

The exterior of the 2021 Outback Touring is marked by its distinctive styling cues that set it apart from other SUVs. The raised ground clearance and rugged body cladding give it a go-anywhere attitude, while the chrome accents and premium wheels add a touch of sophistication. Inside, the cabin is appointed with high-quality materials, including Nappa leather upholstery and woodgrain trim, creating a luxurious and inviting atmosphere. The front seats are designed for maximum comfort, with power-adjustable settings and heating functions to keep you cozy on long drives. The rear seats offer ample legroom and headroom, making it a comfortable space for passengers of all sizes. The Outback Touring also boasts a generous cargo area, perfect for hauling luggage, camping gear, or groceries. With the rear seats folded down, the cargo space expands even further, providing plenty of room for larger items. Whether you're planning a cross-country road trip or simply running errands around town, the 2021 Subaru Outback Touring offers the versatility and comfort you need to tackle any task.

Subaru has always prioritized safety, and the 2021 Outback Touring is no exception. It comes standard with a suite of advanced safety technologies, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. These systems work together to help prevent accidents and keep you and your passengers safe on the road. In addition to these active safety features, the Outback Touring also includes a rearview camera, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert, providing added peace of mind when maneuvering in tight spaces or changing lanes. The Outback has consistently earned top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, reflecting Subaru's commitment to building vehicles that protect their occupants in the event of a collision. With its robust safety features and sturdy construction, the 2021 Subaru Outback Touring is designed to provide a secure and confident driving experience, no matter the conditions.

Engine and Performance Specs

The heart of the 2021 Subaru Outback Touring is its engine, and it comes with a couple of options depending on what you're looking for under the hood. The standard engine is a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder, delivering 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque. This engine provides adequate power for most driving situations, offering a smooth and responsive experience for daily commutes and light off-road adventures. If you're craving more power, there's an available 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that cranks out an impressive 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. This turbocharged engine transforms the Outback into a more spirited performer, providing quicker acceleration and enhanced towing capabilities. Both engines are paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that helps maximize fuel efficiency while delivering seamless shifts.

When it comes to performance, the 2021 Outback Touring excels in a variety of conditions. Its standard all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction and stability, making it well-suited for driving in snow, rain, or on gravel roads. The Outback's raised ground clearance of 8.7 inches allows it to navigate over obstacles that would challenge other SUVs, giving you the confidence to explore off the beaten path. The suspension is tuned for a comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road with ease. Steering is precise and responsive, providing good feedback and control. Whether you're cruising down the highway or tackling a challenging trail, the Outback Touring delivers a balanced and enjoyable driving experience. The turbocharged engine option elevates the performance even further, providing a noticeable boost in acceleration and overall responsiveness. With its combination of power, handling, and off-road capability, the 2021 Subaru Outback Touring is a versatile SUV that can handle just about anything you throw at it.

Fuel economy is an important consideration for many buyers, and the 2021 Outback Touring delivers respectable numbers. The 2.5-liter engine achieves an EPA-estimated 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway, making it a fuel-efficient choice for daily driving. The turbocharged engine, while offering more power, still manages to deliver decent fuel economy, with an EPA-estimated 23 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway. These figures are competitive for the mid-size SUV segment and make the Outback Touring a practical choice for those who want a balance of performance and efficiency. Keep in mind that actual fuel economy may vary depending on driving conditions, habits, and maintenance. Regular maintenance, such as oil changes and tire rotations, can help ensure that your Outback Touring continues to deliver optimal fuel efficiency and performance for years to come.

Interior and Technology Features

Stepping inside the 2021 Subaru Outback Touring, you'll immediately notice the attention to detail and the high-quality materials used throughout the cabin. The Touring trim is the top-of-the-line model, and it comes with a host of premium features that enhance comfort and convenience. The seats are upholstered in supple Nappa leather, providing a luxurious feel and excellent support. The front seats are power-adjustable and heated, with memory functions for the driver's seat, allowing you to find the perfect driving position with ease. The rear seats are also spacious and comfortable, with plenty of legroom and headroom for passengers of all sizes. The interior design is clean and modern, with a focus on functionality and ergonomics. The dashboard is well-organized and easy to navigate, with all the essential controls within easy reach. The Outback Touring also features woodgrain trim accents that add a touch of elegance to the cabin.

On the technology front, the 2021 Outback Touring is packed with advanced features that keep you connected and entertained on the road. The centerpiece of the infotainment system is an 11.6-inch touchscreen display that dominates the center console. This large screen is easy to read and use, with intuitive menus and responsive touch controls. The infotainment system includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, allowing you to seamlessly connect your smartphone and access your favorite apps, music, and navigation features. The Outback Touring also comes with a premium Harman Kardon sound system that delivers crisp, clear audio throughout the cabin. Other notable technology features include a wireless charging pad, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and a voice-activated virtual assistant. These features make the Outback Touring a tech-savvy SUV that's perfect for both daily commutes and long road trips.

Safety is a top priority in the 2021 Outback Touring, and it comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of advanced safety technologies. Subaru's EyeSight driver-assist system is standard on all Outback models and includes features such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. These systems use cameras and sensors to monitor the road ahead and alert you to potential hazards. The Outback Touring also includes blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and reverse automatic braking, providing added peace of mind when maneuvering in tight spaces or changing lanes. The Outback has consistently earned top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, reflecting Subaru's commitment to building vehicles that protect their occupants in the event of a collision. With its combination of advanced safety features and sturdy construction, the 2021 Subaru Outback Touring is designed to provide a secure and confident driving experience for you and your passengers.

Trim-Specific Features of the Touring Model

The 2021 Subaru Outback Touring stands out not just for its general Outback qualities but also for the unique features that come specifically with the Touring trim. These enhancements elevate the Outback experience, providing a more luxurious and convenient ride. One of the most notable upgrades is the Nappa leather upholstery. This premium leather not only looks and feels great but also adds a touch of sophistication to the interior. The seats are also more comfortable, with enhanced cushioning and support, making long drives more enjoyable.

Another feature unique to the Touring model is the woodgrain trim accents. These accents add a touch of warmth and elegance to the cabin, creating a more inviting atmosphere. The Touring also comes with a heated steering wheel, which is a welcome addition on cold winter mornings. The steering wheel is wrapped in leather, providing a comfortable and secure grip. The Touring model also includes power-folding mirrors, which make it easier to navigate tight parking spaces. These mirrors can be folded in with the touch of a button, preventing them from being damaged in crowded areas. The Touring also comes with a hands-free power liftgate, which makes it easier to load and unload cargo. Simply wave your foot under the rear bumper, and the liftgate will automatically open.

The 2021 Subaru Outback Touring also boasts advanced technology features that are not available on lower trims. The Touring comes standard with a 12-speaker Harman Kardon premium audio system, which delivers crisp, clear sound throughout the cabin. The Touring also includes a driver monitoring system, which uses a camera to monitor the driver's eyes and alert them if they appear to be drowsy or distracted. This system can help prevent accidents caused by driver fatigue. The Touring also comes with a front-view camera, which provides a wide-angle view of the area in front of the vehicle. This camera is useful for navigating tight parking spaces or off-road trails. With its combination of luxury features, advanced technology, and enhanced safety systems, the 2021 Subaru Outback Touring is the ultimate expression of the Outback experience.

Pros and Cons of Choosing the 2021 Outback Touring

Alright, let’s break down the pros and cons of choosing the 2021 Subaru Outback Touring. Knowing the ups and downs can really help you decide if this ride is the right fit for your needs. After all, no car is perfect, but some come pretty close!

Pros:

• Luxurious Interior: The Nappa leather upholstery and woodgrain trim create a premium feel that’s hard to beat in its class. It’s like sitting in a comfy, upscale living room on wheels.
• Advanced Technology: With the 11.6-inch touchscreen, Harman Kardon sound system, and driver monitoring system, you’re getting a tech-loaded package that keeps you connected and safe.
• Standard All-Wheel Drive: Subaru’s legendary AWD system provides excellent traction and stability in all kinds of weather conditions, making it a reliable choice for those living in snowy or rainy areas.
• Spacious and Versatile: The Outback offers plenty of room for passengers and cargo, making it a great choice for families or anyone who needs to haul gear.
• Excellent Safety Ratings: The Outback has consistently earned top safety ratings, giving you peace of mind knowing you’re driving a safe vehicle.

Cons:

• Price: The Touring trim is the most expensive Outback model, so it may not be the most budget-friendly option for some buyers.
• CVT Transmission: While the CVT is efficient, some drivers may not like the way it feels compared to a traditional automatic transmission.
• Base Engine Can Feel Underpowered: If you’re looking for more spirited performance, the base 2.5-liter engine may feel a bit lacking. The turbocharged engine is a better choice for those who want more power.
• Infotainment System Can Be Distracting: While the large touchscreen is impressive, some users may find it distracting to use while driving.
• Styling Is Not for Everyone: The Outback’s wagon-like styling may not appeal to everyone, especially those who prefer a more traditional SUV look.

Is the 2021 Subaru Outback Touring Right for You?

So, is the 2021 Subaru Outback Touring the right vehicle for you? That's the million-dollar question, right? Well, let's break it down. If you're someone who values a blend of luxury, capability, and safety, then the Outback Touring is definitely worth considering. It's perfect for folks who need a versatile vehicle that can handle daily commutes, weekend adventures, and everything in between. Whether you're hauling kids to soccer practice, trekking through snowy mountain passes, or simply running errands around town, the Outback Touring is up to the task.

If you prioritize a comfortable and refined interior, the Outback Touring's Nappa leather upholstery, woodgrain trim, and premium features will definitely impress. The spacious cabin and comfortable seats make it a great choice for long road trips, and the advanced technology features keep you connected and entertained along the way. However, if you're on a tight budget or prefer a more traditional SUV styling, you might want to explore other options. The Outback Touring is the most expensive model in the Outback lineup, and its wagon-like design may not appeal to everyone.

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to buy the 2021 Subaru Outback Touring comes down to your individual needs and preferences. If you're looking for a versatile, capable, and luxurious SUV that can handle just about anything you throw at it, the Outback Touring is definitely worth a look. But if you're more concerned with price or styling, there may be other options that better suit your needs. Be sure to test drive the Outback Touring and compare it to other vehicles in its class before making a final decision. And don't forget to consider factors such as fuel economy, maintenance costs, and insurance rates when calculating the overall cost of ownership. With a little research and careful consideration, you can find the perfect vehicle to fit your lifestyle and budget.