Hey everyone, today we're diving deep into the 2022 Subaru Outback Onyx XT. This is a car that's gotten a lot of buzz, and for good reason! It's a sweet ride, offering a blend of rugged capability and everyday comfort. I've spent some quality time with this model, putting it through its paces, and I'm stoked to share my thoughts. So, grab a coffee (or your favorite beverage), and let's get into the nitty-gritty of what makes the Onyx XT such a compelling choice. We will talk about its engine, interior, exterior, price, and technology features. Let's start with the basics.

Under the Hood: Power and Performance

Alright, let's kick things off with what's under the hood. The 2022 Outback Onyx XT packs a punch with its 2.4-liter turbocharged BOXER engine. This is where the XT in its name comes from! This engine cranks out a solid 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. Trust me, guys, that's enough get-up-and-go for pretty much anything you'll throw at it. Whether you're cruising on the highway, tackling some off-road trails, or just navigating the daily commute, the Onyx XT has got you covered. The power delivery is smooth and responsive, thanks to Subaru's Lineartronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission). Some folks aren't the biggest fans of CVTs, but Subaru has done a great job of refining theirs. It's designed to feel more like a traditional automatic transmission, and it really does a great job of maximizing the engine's power while keeping things efficient. It also helps to keep the fuel economy in check. You can expect to get around 22 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway. That's pretty good for a vehicle with this kind of capability.

Now, let's talk about the Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. This is a Subaru staple, and it's a huge part of what makes the Outback Onyx XT so appealing. This system continuously monitors the conditions and distributes power to the wheels with the most grip. This gives you a ton of confidence in all sorts of weather conditions. Rain, snow, mud, whatever – the Onyx XT is ready for it. The Onyx XT also comes standard with an X-MODE system. This is a special off-road setting that further enhances the vehicle's capabilities. It optimizes the engine, transmission, and all-wheel-drive system for challenging terrain. It even adds hill descent control, which is super handy when you're going down steep slopes. With X-MODE engaged, you'll feel like you can take on almost anything. The car's raised ground clearance of 8.7 inches also helps it clear obstacles with ease. The engine performance, all-wheel drive, and X-MODE make the 2022 Outback Onyx XT a very capable and fun vehicle to drive. Let's move on to the interior and see what it's all about.

Interior Comfort and Tech: A Cozy Cabin

Okay, let's step inside. The 2022 Outback Onyx XT boasts a well-designed and comfortable interior. The first thing you'll notice is the quality of the materials. Subaru has really stepped up their game in this area. You'll find a mix of soft-touch surfaces and durable materials throughout the cabin. The Onyx XT trim specifically features unique water-repellent, StarTex upholstery. This stuff is awesome! It's both stylish and practical. It's easy to clean, which is a huge plus if you have kids, pets, or just enjoy the outdoors. The seats themselves are supportive and offer plenty of adjustment, making it easy to find a comfortable driving position, even on long road trips. The Onyx XT also has unique interior trim elements that give it a more rugged, outdoorsy feel. The color accents and stitching add to the overall aesthetic appeal.

Now, let's talk tech. The Outback Onyx XT comes standard with a large, 11.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system. This is the centerpiece of the dashboard, and it controls a lot of the car's functions. The interface is generally user-friendly, with intuitive menus and responsive touch controls. The system includes features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which allow you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone. You can access your music, navigation, and other apps directly through the touchscreen. The Onyx XT also comes with a premium sound system that delivers clear and immersive audio. It's perfect for enjoying your favorite tunes while you're on the road. Subaru's EyeSight driver-assist technology suite is also standard. This includes features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and pre-collision braking. These features help to enhance safety and make driving easier and more convenient. The interior of the Onyx XT is a great place to spend time. It is a mix of comfort, style, and technology.

Exterior Design: Rugged and Refined

Alright, let's step back and take a look at the exterior of the 2022 Outback Onyx XT. The Outback has always had a distinctive look, and the Onyx XT takes that to the next level. It blends rugged capability with a touch of sophistication. The Onyx XT stands out with its unique black-finish exterior accents. This includes the wheels, grille, mirrors, and badging. These blacked-out elements give the car a more aggressive and sporty look. It's a real head-turner. The Onyx XT also features a unique front and rear bumper design that further enhances its rugged appearance. The car's raised ride height and prominent roof rails give it a more adventurous stance. This makes the Outback look ready for anything. The LED headlights and taillights not only look great but also provide excellent visibility. They enhance safety in all driving conditions.

The Onyx XT's overall design is both functional and stylish. The Outback's spacious cargo area and versatile roof rails make it easy to haul all your gear. Whether you're carrying luggage, camping equipment, or sporting goods, the Outback has you covered. The Onyx XT is available in a variety of exterior colors. So, you can choose one that best suits your personality. The exterior design of the 2022 Outback Onyx XT is a great combination of ruggedness and refinement. It is a car that looks good wherever you go. Overall, the car's design is well thought out and contributes to its overall appeal. Let's move on to the pricing and see how much the car costs.

Pricing and Value: Is the Onyx XT Worth It?

So, let's talk about the important stuff: the price! The 2022 Subaru Outback Onyx XT is positioned as a premium trim level, so it comes with a higher price tag than the base models. However, when you consider all the features and capabilities you get, I think it offers excellent value for the money. The Onyx XT typically sits in the mid-to-upper price range. The exact price will vary depending on options and location, but you can generally expect to pay somewhere in this range. For that price, you're getting a lot of car. You get the powerful turbocharged engine, the advanced all-wheel-drive system, the comfortable and well-equipped interior, and the stylish exterior design. Compared to other vehicles in its class, the Outback Onyx XT is very competitive. It offers a unique combination of features and capabilities that you won't find in many other cars. It is a very good car with a great price-performance ratio.

One of the things that makes the Onyx XT such a good value is its long list of standard features. You don't have to pay extra for things like the large touchscreen infotainment system, the EyeSight driver-assist technology, or the premium sound system. These features come standard, which saves you money and makes the car even more appealing. When you factor in Subaru's reputation for reliability and resale value, the Outback Onyx XT becomes an even more attractive proposition. Subaru vehicles tend to hold their value well over time. This makes them a smart investment. The Onyx XT offers a compelling package of features, performance, and value. The car is worth considering. Let's move on to the conclusion and overall thoughts.

Conclusion: Should You Buy the 2022 Outback Onyx XT?

So, after spending some time with the 2022 Subaru Outback Onyx XT, what's the verdict? In my opinion, it's a fantastic vehicle that offers a compelling blend of capability, comfort, and value. If you're looking for a car that can handle anything you throw at it, the Onyx XT is a great choice. The turbocharged engine provides plenty of power. The Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system gives you confidence in all weather conditions. And the X-MODE system enhances off-road capabilities. The interior is well-designed and comfortable, with a long list of standard features. The exterior design is both rugged and refined, making it a head-turner. The price is competitive, and you get a lot of car for your money.

Who is this car for? Well, if you're an outdoor enthusiast, the Onyx XT is perfect for you. It's great for camping trips, off-road adventures, and exploring the great outdoors. If you have a family, the Outback offers plenty of space for passengers and cargo. It is also a very safe vehicle. If you're looking for a reliable and versatile daily driver, the Onyx XT is a great choice. It is comfortable and easy to live with. If you're in the market for a new car, I highly recommend checking out the 2022 Subaru Outback Onyx XT. It's a car that I think you'll really enjoy. It offers a unique combination of features and capabilities. It is a good choice for anyone looking for a fun, capable, and practical vehicle. Thanks for reading and I hope you enjoyed this review! Let me know your thoughts in the comments below!