2023 Subaru Outback vs. Outback Onyx vs. Outback Wilderness: Which Model is Right for You?
No lineup offers the same model repeatedly with a different price tag. No matter what dealership you swing by first, you'll find that there are different trim configurations to browse through and select the one that fits you best. Here at Ciocca Subaru of Pleasantville, we believe you need a vehicle that can handle whatever the weather can throw at you, like the new Subaru Outback. The hardy lineup offers plenty of power, capability, comfort, and convenience to ensure you find your way home confidently and easily.
Not every Outback model is the same, though. Whether you choose the base Subaru Outback or prefer an upgrade to models like the Subaru Outback Onyx Edition or the new Wilderness trim, numerous features make your drive the best part of your day. Consider what each lineup has to offer down below and see which model is right for you.

Why Choose the Subaru Outback Base?
When considering the price point in choosing your next vehicle, the Base model is more than enough SUV for you. The lineup has a 2.5-liter SUBARU BOXER® engine that delivers 182 horsepower and 176 pound-feet of torque. With standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, the Outback pairs with X-MODE® for optimal engine output and AWD system engagement on low-friction surfaces. The Base model can tow up to 2,700 pounds, allowing you to go over anything with 8.7 inches of ground clearance. Rounding out the performance package are 17-inch aluminum-alloy wheels designed to grip the road and offer better traction when the road conditions are less than ideal.
Why Choose the Subaru Outback Onyx Edition XT?
For those drivers who want more off-road prowess in their new SUV, the Outback Onyx Edition might be more your speed. Under the hood, you'll find a completely different engine package than the Base model. The Onyx Edition comes standard with a 2.4-liter turbocharged SUBARU BOXER®, which delivers 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque. Along with the more powerful engine, the Onyx Edition can tow up to 3,500 pounds, perfect for larger trailers and cargo.
While the Subaru Outback Onyx Edition XT doesn't offer any specialized version of the Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, it does upgrade the standard X-MODE® feature. This Subaru trim includes a dual-function X-MODE® with Snow/Dirt and Deep Snow/Mud modes for when you want to get dirty. The Outback Onyx Edition braves the elements with standard 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels.


Why Choose the Subaru Outback Wilderness Edition?
It was only a matter of time before the Outback lineup offered something even better for off-road adventures. With the Wilderness trim, you get the most rugged Outback yet, ready to conquer obstacles and make short work of travels far from the beaten path.
The Wilderness shares the same engine setup as the Onyx Edition, providing you with all the turbocharged power you need to tow up to 3,500 pounds. The Wilderness also comes equipped with Symmetrical AWD and X-MODE®, which features an advanced dual-function setting that handles Snow/Dirt and Deep Snow/Mud and low- and medium-to-high speed functions for more control.
Things get exciting when you take your travels off-road. The Wilderness trim covers obstacles with 9.5 inches of ground clearance that other Outback models might struggle with. The rugged trim level also equips all-terrain 17-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, black with a matte black finish. Even the standard roof rails are different, with integrated tie-down points and Anodized Copper-finish accents that can support up to 700 pounds!
Outback![]() | Outback Limited![]() | Outback Onyx![]() | Outback Wilderness![]() | Outback Touring![]() | |
MSRP | $28,895 | $35,795 | $36,105 | $39,960 | $40,345 |
All-Wheel Drive | Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive with X-MODE® | Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive with X-MODE® | Dual-function X-MODE with Hill Descent Control | Dual-function X-MODE with Hill Descent Control | Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive with X-MODE® |
Ground Clearance | 8.7 inches | 8.7 inches | 8.7 inches | 9.5 inches | 8.7 inches |
Engine Size | 2.5L 4-Cylinder | 2.5L 4-Cylinder | 2.4L Turbo 4-Cylinder | 2.4L Turbo 4-Cylinder | 2.4L Turbo 4-Cylinder |
Horsepower | 185hp | 185hp | 260hp | 260hp | 260hp |
Towing Capability | 2,700 lbs. | 2,700 lbs. | 3,500 lbs. | 3,500 lbs. | 3,500 lbs. |
Upholstery | Cloth | Leather | StarTex® water-repellent upholstery | StarTex® water-repellent upholstery | Nappa Leather |

Take Home A New Subaru Outback Today!
While the interiors offer many of the same comforts and conveniences, the three trim levels are equipped with different lifestyle choices. If you want a more in-depth comparison of the three levels, we encourage you to swing by our Pleasantville, NJ, dealership, and test drive all three! You deserve a Subaru Outback that's just right for the kind of adventures you want to experience!
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Ciocca Subaru of Pleasantville
401 West Black Horse Pike
Pleasantville, NJ 08232
- Sales: 609-646-1500