New Subaru Outback XT turbo priced
Two force-fed variants to join local Outback range late this yearThe Subaru Outback line-up will be bolstered by the addition of two new turbocharged XT variants when the 2023 model range arrives in Australian showrooms late this year, priced at $52,190 plus on-road costs for the Sport XT and $55,990 plus ORCs for the Touring XT.
As alluded to by their nameplates, the two turbocharged newcomers are based on the mid-range Sport and flagship Touring trim levels, with the respective $5000 premiums justified by their drastically more powerful engine, reworked suspension and shorter gearing.
The new engine is the same turbocharged 2.4-litre boxer four as seen in the latest Subaru WRX, albeit with a lower peak power output of 184kW (available between 5200-6000rpm).
Maximum torque, however, remains steady at 350Nm (over 2000-4800rpm), meaning the XT variants out-muscle existing 2.5-litre naturally-aspirated Outback variants by 48kW/105Nm, hence the significantly improved 2400kg braked towing capacity – up from 2000kg.
Another contributing factor is the slightly lower final drive ratio of the differential, which has been altered from 3.900 to 4.111, bringing improved acceleration but also higher fuel consumption that rises to 9.0L/100km.
The extra shove continues to be sent to all four wheels via a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and is supported by a bespoke new suspension tune.
No specific performance claims have been published yet, but Subaru Australia says the new turbo donk improves the Outback’s 0-100km/h time by 22 per cent, something counteracted – when needed – by grippier new brake pads.
Besides their extra ‘XT’ badging, the forced-indication variants can be spotted by their dual exhaust exits and six-LED foglights, which the brand says pays homage to its six-starred logo.
Six colours comprising Sapphire Blue Pearl, Crystal White Pearl, Ice Silver Metallic, Autumn Green Metallic, Magnetic Grey Metallic and Crystal Black Silica will be available on the Sport XT.
Those fancying Brilliant Bronze Metallic, Crimson Red Pearl or Storm Grey Metallic will have to spend extra and get the Touring XT thanks to its bigger 12-colour palette.
Beyond the aforementioned mechanical and cosmetic changes, the rest of the XTs’ standard equipment lists read exactly the same as their naturally-aspirated counterparts, which themselves have been treated to a few new features for the 2023 model year.
Applicable to all Outback variants, the MY23 update brings the adoption of wireless smartphone mirroring, a redesigned 11.6-inch infotainment screen, expanded voice command recognition, enhanced navigation functions, improved device management and a new USB-C port in the front (replacing the old USB-A port).
These changes have added $1200 to the asking price of all three 2.5-litre variants and means the Outback range now starts from $42,690 plus on-road costs.
Speaking in relation to the XTs’ pending introduction, Subaru Australia managing director Blair Read said the brand had heard its “customers’ request for a turbocharged Outback loud and clear” and was pleased to be adding two variants to the range.
“A more powerful turbocharged engine, coupled with the latest intuitive technology, impressive interior and of course the all-terrain capability of Subaru’s Symmetrical AWD, makes the Outback XT the perfect vehicle for any Australian road trip,” he said.
With the XT variants now confirmed, priced and detailed for our market, all eyes will now be on whether the more capable and rugged Subaru Outback Wilderness is given the greenlight for Australia as well.
Read went on the record earlier this year and said both the XT powertrain and Wilderness trim was “under serious evaluation”, but confessed he didn’t have a confirmed timeframe.
“But we’re working hard with the factory to see what we can do,” he told carsales back in January.
How much does the 2023 Subaru Outback cost?
Outback – $42,690
Sport – $47,190
Touring – $50,990
Sport XT – $52,190
Touring XT – $55,990
* Prices exclude on-road costs
Related: Subaru Forester Wilderness all but certain for Oz
Related: Subaru Outback turbo confirmed for Australia
Related: Subaru Outback 2022 Long-Term Review
Join the conversation at
Or email us at
Or email us at
Tags
Please see our Editorial Guidelines & Code of Ethics (including for more information about sponsored content and paid events). The information published on this website is of a general nature only and doesn’t consider your particular circumstances or needs.
