As Jakob Dylan sang, “something good this way comes.” Subaru is set to unveil the next chapter in the story of its Outback station wagon on March 30.
When it was introduced in its new generation in 2019, Subaru openly talked about how the 2020 Subaru Outback Onyx Edition XT was a trial-like step in the direction of ruggedness for the wagon. The 2021 edition comes with a roster of equipment not found anywhere else in the Outback lineup: 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels with a black finish, Crystal Black Silica-finish folding side mirrors with integrated turn signals, and StarTex water-repellent upholstery. There’s also black-finish exterior elements and badging, an exclusive gray two-tone interior, power liftgate, front view monitor, Dual X-Mode, and a full-size spare tire.
Something Wild Is Coming
www.youtube.com
The teased model is billed as a “new adventure-ready version” of the Subaru Outback, the popular adventure-mobile. From spy photos we already know that this new Outback is a bit of a brute compared to the traditional model. It might even have a lift.
The latest teaser photo released by the company (above) shows that it’s designed to handle tougher terrain than just well-trodden trails. The new Outback’s Yokohama Geolandar A/T tires are designed to be an all-terrain tire for all weather conditions. The manufacturer says that they are a “perfect blend of on- and off-road performance, capability, and comfort.”
Subaru also teases the model by showing beefy rocker panels and unique wheels. There’s also orange-colored badging.
The automaker teased further in a statement saying, “The legendary Outback is the most rugged, most capable vehicle in the Subaru lineup. But what if Subaru pushed things further? Or went higher?” A lift? In the words of Lloyd Christmas, “So you’re saying there’s a chance.”
The Outback Wilderness, which is what some are calling it (some call it the Adventure), is expected to be the first in a series of similarly-branded off-road capable vehicles that Subaru will produce. The next up on the roster is said to be the Forester. Don’t be surprised if Crosstrek and Ascent get in on the action as well.
