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Subaru Outback XT Turbo vs Non-Turbo Compared: Fuel Economy, Power, Refinement & Value Tested
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- Опубліковано 7 сер 2024
- Is it worth spending the extra $5000 on the Outback XT over the regular non-turbo version? We test out all the factors that matter in making that important decision.
We compare the fuel economy (tested at the bowser, not the trip computer), in-cabin noise and refinement, power, acceleration and braking times and value for money of the Outback XT Sport vs the regular Outback Sport.
Many of the findings may surprise you - especially the annual fuel and servicing costs.
A tow test of the Outback XT is coming soon.
Time codes:
0:00 - Intro
0:51 - Engine Power Levels
1:49 - Fuel Economy Comparison
3:11 - Annual Fuel Spend
3:47 - Servicing Costs
4:25 - Comprehensive Insurance
4:46 - 0-100km/h Times (0-62)
5:15 - Emergency Braking Distances
5:31 - Driving the Non-Turbo
7:00 - Cabin Noise While Accelerating
8:24 - Driving the XT Turbo
11:55 - Visual Differences
12:44 - Interior & Tech
14:12 - Back Seats
15:05 - Boot & Cargo Room
15:50 - Verdict: Is The Outback XT Worth It?
The Outback competes with the Volkswagen Passat Alltrack 162TSI, Audi A4 Allroad, Skoda Superb Scout, Volvo V60 Cross Country and other cladded wagons.
As always, we don’t accept advertising from car manufacturers, and we’re powered by Budget Direct.
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Chasing Cars is Australia's most independent source of new car reviews, car industry news, comparisons and car guides. We give you a critical look at every new car you should consider!
I’ve had my XT for 3 weeks, zero regrets, best 5k I’ve ever spent.
Good to hear.
make sure you keep an eye out on your oil level sensor/lower oil pan for leaks. my leaked at 800 miles on my 2022 2.4 DiT engine.
@@perpetualgrin5804 I was thinking the same lol
5k? Where can I get one for 5k? Around here they're $55k!
@@parvent3556 I’m pretty sure we are here comparing non turbo vs turbo and if the $5k difference is worth it to upgrade from NA to Turbo
More reviews like this please. As you say in your review, most shoppers are looking for a quite comfortable car for their daily drive. So many reviews bang on about carving up back roads etc. The vast majority want info on NVH, comfort, drivability and performance. Measuring the noise (dB) was a great addition. Thanks for a great review.
Yes cabin noise important except when the Harman Kardon is cranked with your favourite tune! Outstanding 💪
"quiet and comfortable" makes for less fatigue over distance, for sure
The 2.4 wear out quicker. Extra hard on engine over time.😮
I have a non-turbo 2021. I can confirm from my recent Sydney-Melbourne that the return trip gave me a fuel economy of 6.8L/100Km after following the set highway speed limits. As you guys said, in the city, it is thirsty, though, ranging from 10L/100Km to 13.8L/100Km based on how hard you hit the accelerator. Thanks for the excellent video with good comparisons, as usual.
Agreed, I have non turbo 2021, live in the middle of nowhere, and it has averaged 7.1, with 95% of my driving being rural. Thinking from this review that I don’t need to change.
I am facing exactly this decision today. I appreciate your test, your style, and you taking a clear stand at the end!
I hope you went for the XT, as it is a no-brainer, you're spending that much on a car already I would definitely push for the Turbo, especially when I know the fake fuel saving promises with a weak engine for the vehicle weight, it's the same or even worst if I drive it, it will rev to 6K very often. When you do that, even not that extreme the smaller/weaker engine usually consumes more fuel:)
@@Valdismith I did buy the XT and am quite happy. I can't imagine the regular even for daily drive. It would be making me nuts and I am not a performance driver. I do miss my Audi Allroad still. ;) Hopefully, the subie will last 200K miles vs 100K miles.
@@billszymanski4844 I got the regular and it works totally fine. Saved myself 6 grand. I get up to speed fine. What is funny to me is I had a 2000 BMW 323i with a V6 that has 176 hp. It is all perception. Now "fast" is viewed differently I guess. I had a turbo Ranger before this. I could truly care less how fast a vehicle is. Guess to each his own.
I just leased a 2024 outback xt and I couldn’t be happier! This is my 3rd outback and I can definitely tell the difference. I love it!!
Thanks Tom have to totally agree, had my XT Touring in same colour for two weeks now, just ticking over 1,000ks, best, most comfortable ride I’ve ever owned and I’m a first time Subaru owner.
I have a Outback Wilderness (US model) with the 2.4t and hp specs are 260hp (194kw) with 277 ftlbs (375 Nm) of torque. Was interesting to see the Australian model is different. Also for fuel the 2.4t here can run just fine on 87 octane. I know US uses a different calculation for octane fuel octane rating (RON vs AKI) so 91 RON is similar to our 87 Octane. I do really like the 2.4t. Just finished my first year owning it and put about 13k miles on it so far and all I have had to do was a few oil changes, so far so good.
This was such a helpful video-the most straightforward I’ve seen on the comparison.
Great, concise and helpful review for a future buyer of the Subaru OUTBACK XT. Thank you 'Chasing Cars' for a 'no nonsense review/ have subscribed and look forward to future videos on the 'Outback' and hopefully will be able to my many outback tours planned for the future.
This really helped in my understanding of the differences and also got me way more excited for my wilderness to come in October! Thanks again and great content!
Have fun!
Subaru - thank you for bringing back the XT. Over 17 years I owned both the GT and XT Forester and loved them but drifted away when you discontinued those models - while not currently in the market for a new car the XT Outback would be short listed for a test drive if I was.
0-60mph = 9.6 seconds with the non-Turbo. 6.6 *with the Turbo.*
Absolutely worth it! Might not seem much, but take it from someone who lived with a slow car for years, it is definitely worth the $5K extra. My current vehicle does that in 6.5 seconds. Effortless acceleration. Merging onto highway traffic is easy. I can accelerate away from an oncoming potential accident due to thoughtless other drivers. I can never go back.
I had a turbo Ranger and sold it and got a regular outback Onyx 2024. Works perfectly fine for me. I get up to speed fine. Before my Ranger I also had a 400hp Infiniti Q50. My days of caring about that stuff are over. What I care about is I can get to my hiking and kayaking spots and room for my Doberman. Nothing else.
It's one of the best analyses that I have ever seen.
You clearly researched and shared some very useful facts in this video. Do more like this and I will watch more of your videos.
I’ve had a non-turbo outback for five years now. Great car, but when loaded up you start to notice the lack of power. Especially if you start climbing up in elevation as well. Going for the turbo for the next one!
I notice it without being loaded. I feel like there’s a huge lag in the 40mph mark
Been following g this channel from its early days. Always the best reviews on UA-cam.
Great review. I drive previous gen diesel and the 350nm torque, the same as the new XT, really makes it a relaxing vehicle to drive. The turbo XT should be the standard offering in my opinion in the current gen since the demise of the diesel.
Thanks for this video. It was a major part of my decision making and test driving. You addressed all the questions - to XT, or not to XT.
After taking both on the same test drive , the XT is the car you expect the model to be. Effortless, easy, nimble, capable. The 2.5 on test drive was able, but under strain when accelerating on hills. The 2.5 is a fine vehicle if your driving is the suburban shuffle , as a capable versatile wagon , suburban driving , ready for the occasional holiday, a great out of zone picnic- I would have picked it for the savings. Car and fuel.
I really liked your noise and fuel comparisons. Importantly , the get up and go comparisons.
The reality is - what did I need?
My drive includes frequent highway driving- passing trucks, overtaking 4x4 caravans, avoiding driver pullouts on hills, needing that torque at 2500rpm to escape driver error (mine and theirs), and sometimes Im quite loaded. I do suburban also- work and back- but out of every month the majority of kms is mixing it with the milieu on the highway.
I have taken delivery of my XT - it is the right car. Averaging 8.3l/100 as mixed suburban and highway kms. Im using a fuel app to source the best fuel prices for the premium fuel. Dont be put of by the fuel stats- THE REVIEW IS RIGHT- The XT is surprisingly fuel efficient.
I have become fast friends with my Subaru Outback XT.
This video breakdown really does reflect the differences in the 2 vehicles.
Great review. Very practical. Would like to have seen the addition of the highway noise levels. Traveling long distances at 110km/hr, having a quieter car is a real bonus.
Excellent review Tom…awesome real world comparison….XT all the way
Over in USA, we have the Onyx trim level which has the XT. I just got one and I'm loving it. I drove the non-turbo version and it sounded significantly louder, as you covered in your video. Turbo was definitely quieter and packed more of a punch. Very fun daily driver that doesn't break the bank.
Excellent review thanks Tom. I took delivery of my Touring XT a couple of weeks ago and can attest to the reasonable fuel economy. On a 500 km trip last weekend the car returned 8.4 litre per 100km combined highway and urban driving. I note some concerns about the CVT from a comment below, and to that I can only say that the CVT is not only a real gearbox but is probably the best gearbox for this engine. The power delivery is so smooth I have to wonder if there is a gearbox there at all. This car is a joy to drive in every respect, and a huge refinement over my previous 2017 2.5i Outback Premium. Cheers.
Technically, it's more of a pulleybox. ;-)
There are literally no gears! It's a transmission. I know as I just had to replace mine after only 75000kms. Well Subaru thankfully paid for it. (15k cost)
@@deningmanwhat model is your car mate?
@@scotty932096 2018 outback
Thanks for the review. Let's hope Subaru Australia continue with this new found enthusiasm and bring back the Forester GT/XT
I’ve driven my 2023 XT four times now so hardly a long term trial. But I have driven it to a 3 night camp up the Blue Mountains. I love it. It got over some gnarly rises, through a small creek, over some potholes etc. when I was crawling over that camping “driveway” and in Easter holiday mountain traffic (lots of stop start, without the auto stop feature turned on) I was being told I would get 360km from the full tank. Once I got down onto the M4 and the drive was smooth and constant it read just under 1100kms. That was after an 1.5hr of driving down as well. Driving sensibly while I’m running it in.
I’ll be towing a small caravan soon, and I don’t regret the extra $5k at all. Resale will be stronger as well
Got the turbo after watching your video. Love it! Thank you!!!
Great to hear!
We have a 2021 XT driving in four seasons in Ontario, Canada. AWD inspires a lot of confidence in snow and sleet, and rain. Never been stuck. No problem on unpaved secondary roads either. The XT is very quick and responsive and never feels like it is straining, even on long uphill grades or when packed up for holiday trips. And there is a ton of room inside for gear when the back seats are folded down.
The XT is smooth and quiet, and the ride tuning is on the plush side, Build quality is first rate. Seats are very comfortable and supportive. No squeaks or rattles after two years of driving. Apart from regular oil changes, no trips to the dealer or garage. The CVT works fine although I would prefer a conventional transmission. But I suspect most people buying a vehicle like this will not care.
Overall averaging just under 10L per 100 km on I would say 70 per cent city driving. In my experience on highway cruising it drops to 8 L per 100 km or even much better depending on speed and driving style.
A few niggles about some of the touchscreen controls. Increasing or decreasing fan speed requires a very precise jab of your finger in a small area of the touchscreen and I would much prefer physical buttons for this. To be fair there are a number of dedicated buttons for front defrost, side defrost, and increasing or decreasing temperature settings. And there are buttons for tuning the infotainment system. Heated seat require a two stage menu operation but I see this has been fixed on newer models. So good overall.
Thanks for this great video. I have been debating but this convinced me that the XT is absolutely the way to go. 😊
I bought a 24 Crosstrek because it didn't have a turbo. It's the limited with the 2.5 getting as much as 35mpg(US) on the highway. Calculated, not from the trip computer which is pretty accurate. Couldn't be happier.
Fascinating comparison, Tom, thanks to you & the team. I'm soon to receive my XT Turbo - my first Subaru. A mate has the N/A version (also MY23), with which he's delighted, and which impressed me enormously. I think I'll be very happy with the extra torque.
I love his vids - he's fab! I'm subscribing!
I struggle to appreciate reading of 10L/100km as I have only owned diesels for the last 20 years and my Sorento sport+ averages 7L/100Kms on mix of city and country or 5.9L/100Km on country driving. Living in Bendigo and travelling 500 kms to Melbourne and normal distance travel to home The diesel is definitely the winner for country mileage. I think it would be great to drive the XT for the power but I wish Subaru still made the diesels which suit more of the high country mileage. I agree it will be good to see the turbo added to the Forester. Maybe a second weekend car outside the main driver.
I switched to the XT this year and enjoying my Outback even more 🎉
A fabulously useful review. Great to know the real figures!
Thanks for the interesting review. After much research we’ve opted to buy an Outback XT. It’s amazing how few cars have a full sized spare - this was a big factor for me.
Can I check which driving mode you were using (sport or “I” ) when testing fuel consumption? Also do you know what tire pressure you were running? Thanks!
We were using I mode rather than sport mode
Tyre pressures were precisely as per the light load placard
Great content Tom. Really appreciate the level of detail you did for this. It makes me feel a bit better about my nerdy spreadsheets cataloging and comparing cars in this way 😂 I also want to highlight that during the Outback 3.6r years, that car was constantly was reviewed as ‘the H6 is better than the 4 but you’re probably fine getting the 4’. Looking at you John Cadogan. Then Subaru didn’t bring the 2.4t to Australia initially and all the AU journalists had conniptions about Subaru going soft when they’d literally recommended the public not to opt for the premium engine. So. Long way of saying thank you for having an honest opinion based on objective facts and laying it all out. I’d love to see more videos like this. Maybe when it comes to Aus the Cx-60 diesel vs the petrol real world figures?
Happy to help.
Id love to see those spreadsheets
This comparison is the type I like: Ask a question then answer it with verifiable measurements. I like it so much that I’ve subscribed to the channel.
Too many reviews ask a question and then do not answer it. Or if they do answer the question that got me to watch the video, they only give their own subjective preference without doing any verifiable tests.
Very good video, thank you.
Luv this guy. Knows his stuff, doesn't talk fluff and speaks about what's important in a way that relates to most people. Excellent review by an excellent reviewer on a really fantastic car. Seems Outback is now perfect with the turbo. Secretly, I'd love the old 3.6R back . . . WITH a turbo!! We have had a 2015 Outback 3.6R since new amd it has been great. Performance 'probably' about the same as this new turbo I'd say. Very good motor this 3.6 but no doubt, with the same performance, this 2.4T motor would use quite a bit less petrol. The 3.6R was $42K when we bought top-of-the-range back in 2015 - bargain at the time so the price of the turbo shocked me a bit at first. Then again, everything has exploded in price over the past 10 years or so. Oh, the timing cover issue has affected us on the 3.6R, don't know if the 2.4T is afflicted with same so keep an eye out for oil leaks - that's the only major thing we've had go wrong. Very happy otherwise. Thanks for the review CCs 🙂
I have the XT, and 3 years later, I am still enjoying driving the car.
Yeah Tom if I had my way I would bring back the 3.6 Ltr six Cyl but after your review I ll have no problem upgrading to the Turbo model thx mate your the best
I can't give any comparison data, but I have very careful (for a layman owner) fuel economy data for my 2017 Forester XT 2.0 turbo US model, owned since new, now 92,000 miles. I've done constant-speed 15-mile loops in an empty rural area without traffic interference, returning to my starting spot each time to cancel out elevation and wind. Also, I'm correcting the trip computer for actual gas purchased, and for odometer error. My car gives 6.5 L/100km at 50 mph (80 kph), 7.6 L/100km at 60 mph (97 kph), and 9.0 L/100km at 70 mph (112 kph). My lifetime overall consumption is now 10.6 L/100km. I live in an urban residential neighborhood, but the car has been as far as 7000 km away from home on a trip.
That premium fuel requirement must be an australia requirement? In the US its listed as using regular and premium when towing.
I've got a 2023 XT and yes it's worth it 😊.
Tell that to my Mrs who has a 2021 touring NA and says "we don't need a turbo" 😅
When I drive it I beg to differ!
our(USA) has 260HP im not sure if there is a reason its got15HP more(different ways of calculation or what) but I think the thing the 260 HP version(XT) does is make up for the underpowered 182 HP standard engine.and the CVT, i think the LOW HP engine+CVT=sluggish the XT260HP = non sluggish
I currently own a 2021 Subaru Outback Sport and in the lead up to making the decision to purchase back in 2021, I made extensive enquiries as to whether a Turbo version would be released in OZ, but was told emphatically NO. On hearing the news of release of the XT, I ordered a Sport XT and will take delivery in late May 2023, for reason of the increased performance of the XT, greater towing capacity and the all round better touring capabilities of the XT for OZ conditions. Thank you for comparative video which has fully validated my reasons and decision to change over to the Sport XT Turbo. And yes, as suggested I may remove the XT Badge just to fool those who may underestimate me at traffic lights and lane changes.
Purchased the 2.5 and have no issues.
Just bought my wife the Outback Touring XT. Without a doubt drove both of them and I felt there was a major difference. There would be no way I would even go with the the non turbo. I don’t worry about if it uses more gas it’s about the drive and power
The 2 comparison reviews are spot on!
Finally almost only decent video I found ,where someone gave decent data on the car/s even more, they compared the XT to the non-turbo. I just want a bit more handling, pushing in the corners, over very nice and bad road(where he said it performs well-usual for Subaru chassis on bumpy roads). My old 2010 Forester is flawed with 2.0 no-turbo 150hp engine, but at least when I swerve the wheel the front follows like it dances! I agree with everything he said 100%, but I was wondering why the non-turbo takes time to react after steering input (non Subaru chassis characteristic), but the turbo is much better because of engine placement? This is interesting to me, as the boxer usually lays low between your pillars/ between your front wheels:)
I've owned three Foresters here in eastern Canada, all with the 2.5 naturally aspirated engine and loved all three (2009, 2014, & 2019). Each one was a marked improvement over the previous one. I thought I had no need for the turbo and was a bit concerned about its reliability and lifespan. While waiting for an oil change for my Forester at the dealer last year, I chatted with the sales manager. He said that because of the shortage of computer chips and hence new cars, used cars were worth a lot more than usual. He offered me a crazy trade-in price so I got a new Outback Wilderness ('22), which comes with the turbo. Despite my original misgivings, I'll never go back! The Wilderness is geared a bit lower than the standard Outback, and comes with slightly more aggressive tires, but it still rides like a luxury car and is quiet inside. Except for too many menus on the large dash screen instead of physical switches, it is just about perfect for me. The extra ground clearance and full sized spare offers extra reassurance on logging roads when I go fishing, but honestly, my old Foresters were more than good enough for that too. Still, better driving on urban and country roads too? No contest!
The wilderness is great, I have a loaner of the Forester Wilderness now and I want one. I prefer the Forester screen without that big tablet also, it's too few buttons for me.
@@ChristianRunsNY I wanted the Forester Wilderness too - it's a better size for me, but it wasn't available at the time and the dealer said he couldn't give me that great trade-in price if I waited too long. Plus I really wanted to try a turbo before I got too old, and it wasn't available in the Forester. Now that I've got used to the Outback, I may continue on with them.
Great review, I have the 2022 OB Sport. I have never understood the comments like the one you made in this video about the OB's lack of power and literally saying you can't overtake on a country road. I have found these comments to be complete bollocks. I'm not saying the OB is a race car, I didn't want a race car. And yes it could have a bit more power. But the comment of not being able to overtake is pure utter nonsense. Maybe put your handbags down and put your foot down. Try overtaking in a turbo diesel family wagon like the Pajero Sport or Isuzu Mux. The Outback leaves them for dead in the overtaking department. The 2020 onwards models got a small retune/tweak for better power delivery over the older models. Anyway my only feedback is I think people have been exaggerating the lack of power. Otherwise thanks for the awesome review, we're looking at the XT as our second car 😂
It’s simple. The turbocharged model is a lot faster to accelerate than the non-turbo. Of course you can overtake in the 2.5L model. It’s just that this inherently dangerous manoeuvre is completed far more rapidly with the turbo engine. The data makes that more than clear.
Had a 2015 Outback Limited with the 2.5l. Now I have a 2020 XT with the 2.4 Turbo. I cannot ever imagine going back to the 2.5l. Yes, the Turbo gets slightly worse MPG. BUT WOW WHAT A DIFFERENCE IN DRIVING EXPERIENCE. And I am not a lead foot boy racer. The XT is just better on the highway and around town. Actually able to pass other cars without being in a down hill with a tail wind and 1+miles of road. Here in the US, the XT does NOT require premium gas. Runs all day on regular. And, in the US, the service intervals for 2.5 and 2.4 are the same. And wow what a difference with the CVT behavior. The beefed up CVT has made me love having a CVT. I smoke most people when I need to because of all the time they take with their shifting. Muscle cars get really pissed at how quick my XT is off the line...and I am not evening trying. I average 27mpg on my mostly country highway/super highway commute. When I am stuck driving in urban...18-20mpg. XT Touring in the US has laminated side glass for the front seats for even better sound deadening.
Great review and on point.
Love the xt. Wouldn't have purchased the Outback without it.
Great review Thanks !
the fuel consumption doesn't make sense. I used to own a '22 XT and now I own the '23 Limited (NA motor) - and in the city, im getting 29MPG (8.11 L/100km). with my XT, I was getting AT BEST 24 MPG in the city (9.8 L/100km) - from everyone ive spoken with that have both the XT and NA, all say the NA gets much better economy in both city and highway driving.
were your engines broken in prior to testing? prior to break in, my NA was getting 27MPG city (8.7 L/100km), then after 1,4k miles or somewhere abouts, it went up to 29MPG (8.11 L/100km)
The Australian XT has a different tune to North America. Less top end power and a flatter mid range so that could account for the difference.
@@michaelferraris2441 oh wow. Didn’t know that. That’s strange 👀 thanks for correcting me
Nice video, but I found it interesting that my US version of the XT has 260hp, 277 ft.lbs of torque. I have owned 3 Outbacks, a 2015 25i Limited, a 2022 Touring XT and my current Outback a 2023 Touring XT. My' 23 is the best one. It is far quieter, rides smoother, and is just more fun with all the toys inside. My Outback only requires reg unleaded fuel, 87 octane. I really like that I no longer have to worry about people at he car wash spraying anything inside the cabin. I do not drive the vehicle hard, but when extra oomph!! is required, a press on the gas and it is there. However word of caution, when getting to your destination in an XT let the car run a couple of minutes before turning off the engine, this will give the turbo a chance to spool down.
Very helpful comment. Have 2018 Outback Limited. Opted not to get 3.6r due to slight reliability issues. 2.5 is nice but lacks oomph when merging or getting on the highway. This comment helps to show the ‘23 version might be it.
That’s good advice to take it easy on the car a few minutes before you know you’ll shut it down so the turbo system can cool off. We used to do that religiously with the old Mazda Rx7 turbo ll. When almost to the destination would just cruise easily to keep it out of boost and not have a fully hot dogged turbo just being shut off before the oil system can cool it a bit. I do know that some car companies now have their turbos cool down by fans, etc even after the cars get shut off so I wonder if Subaru does that with these new vehicles?
I was a pro tow driver for many years--- NOT going to be towing AnYTHING ever again.. I'm liking your video-- I'm comparing this to MAZ CX-50 and RAV4... any opinions on these-- since you've probabaly tested the others there too???? I won't be driving a lot-- just want capability when out in case the weather turns bAD-- we've had lots of terribly bad wet/icy winters here lately and are expecting the next few to be BAD--- that's what I want it for-- maybe a dirt road or two a year-- but won't be driving al that much either..
I traded sluggish 2021 Forester for 2023 Outback XT & it's the best trade I ever made. I get good pickup when merging, road handling much better than the Forester, seat very comfortable, almost best car I've ever had except for those Corvettes in my younger days.
I have a 2005 Outback XT manual. I need to do some work on it. My friend that has a built Legacy turbo says he thinks there is a vacuum leak somewhere.
I bought my XT from a friend who lifted it 1 inch (254mm) and I put some Method rims and Falken AT tires.
Good, comprehensive & useful review, thanks. I'm selling my 4yo Le Vorg STi soon for the XT described. It's been a great car, one of the best cars I've had, and there's been a few. It hasn't missed a beat. Good mate is about to take delivery of Outback XT so excitement looms. Thanks again.
What is the reason for the service of the turbo being cheaper ? And why is the service interval shorter in distance ?
Great review Tom. I can't quite believe that this review has delivered these fuel economy results. I am in the market currently looking at outbacks and this criteria is a critical one for us, which left me assuming the Turbo option wouldn't even be under consideration. Do other owners get similar fuel results as suggested in the video? Primarily we will be driving urban, is it really more efficient and cost effective to go for the turbo over the 2.5?
My 2023 Outback Touring XT averages 26.8 mpg in mixed driving during morning and afternoon rush hour on relatively flat roads in busy urban area. The stiffer ride absorbs bump well. No regrets.
Looking forward in getting mine
Hi, Thanks for the review. Its good to finally get some real cross assesment and actual real world data. Congratulations as none of your competitors have looked at this and so just quote the manufacturer numbers. I was put off a bit by the XT fuel economy, but will now give it another look.
I also look forward to the tow review you mention as the XT should be good for smaller campers. When looking at towing though, can you please also quote the towball load capacity (in addtion to the overall load) as many of the SUV's might have circa 2000kg, but a towball capcity around 100kg thats below teh ball load for many of the campers out there.
Further fuel economy when towing would also be great. By experience this varies hugely depending on load, the speed you cruise at and things on the van such as bikes/surfboards. We tow with a Prado and small camper and if fully loaded with gear on a 110km freeway and a headwind it can drink 15-16lt/100km. However when cruising at 100km/h and without the bikes on top of it, it drops to around 13lt/100km.
FInal thoughts is would be great to see more cross assesments like this within model ranges. ie Hybrid v diesel v petrol as many of us cross shop within a range...
Thanks
Towball = 240
Payload is around 420
Love this type of comparison review! Very constructive and helpful. Keep that coming please. Thanks!!!
I purchased a Subaru Forester premium new from the factory in 2022,it has the normally aspirated engine, my wife and I are retired. My wife drives a new Kia Sportage, oftentimes i may. Take a road trip to do some photography or visit my parents gravesite that is outside of, new York state. I prefer driving the Subaru Forester as it has a more comfortable ride. It gets good mileage and is comfortable on long road trips. I use unleaded regular gasoline, i New York state the price is 3.50 a gallon while midgrade is about 4.00 a gallon, the power of the car is fine for a 4 cylinder engine and the mileage it gets is better than i expected overall i had the car for 16 months and it is working out great.
Get review. Did you do a towing review of the XT in the future? I can't find it.
I'm on my second XT Outback in Ontario, Canada. 100% agree with turbo being a better option. Car easily deals with thick and wet snow and with load in the car. Also has a premium and refined feel, for the price, when compare to my father's Q5. I am glad Subaru didnt try to 'sportify' the ride. This car demolishes rough, gravel or ice covered roads and then feel perfectly at home on a 5K km road trip across the country. Wish they improved thd brakes. They are a bit undersized for a car this size (esp with gear) and the max load capacity (900lbd!!) is a bit low, but I know this is what gives it the plush ride.
Great job with your review. You covered so many of the critical bases, which other reviewers tend to overlook. I'm in the US, so models and things are perhaps not identical, but I'm the "how does it look 10 years later" guy here. In late 2013, I was shopping 2014 Foresters and had to make the decision on XT vs non-turbo. At that time, the base XT was identically priced to the non-Turbo limited. So, for the same money as the XT, I could have had leather, and an auto-closing rear hatch. In my XT, I got cloth seats and a manual hatch. However, I also got 250 HP with 258 lb-ft of torque, 18" wheels instead of 17", larger brakes, a better suspension (I drove the non-turbo and it had a lot more body roll), a totally different front fascia, X-Drive and paddle shifters. Mine takes premium gas vs regular. So, 9.5 years and 108,000 miles later, I have zero regrets. The twin scroll 2.0l engine has been flawless. I also get 3 drive modes ("Intelligent", sport, and sport sharp) and a manual shift option with paddles. I thought I'd be using the paddles a lot, but quickly realized that the Sport Sharp is actually pretty good. It noticably amps up throttle tip in response, and "learns" what you are doing. If you are driving it aggressively in Sport Sharp, it will hold lower "gears" longer to keep it in the higher torque RPM range. It has torque in spades, and does 0-60 in the low 6 second range. I'm starting to think about what will replace it, and sadly, all the Forester's sold here now have the doggy 184 HP engine. (Amazingly, the orange piping on the "Sport" doesn't add any HP or torque. Yes, that is my "bitter sarcasm font"). So, if I had to do it this model year, I'd be looking at one of the XT flavors in the Outback. FOr the money, it is a heck of a good value. Looking at the US "Onyx XT" it is about $39K (USD), which is about 9k more than I paid for my Forester in '13. The towing capacity is greatly increased, it has heated seats, and all the safety features that mine doesn't. Interesting that your "Sport" doesn't have a sun roof. I'd be happy to not pay extra for a sunroof that I barely ever use.
A review on towing would be great. If you can do it on a boat as well. Putting the boat in and out @ the ramp. Caravan would be great as well. Thanks.👍😎
Really good review, You have dispelled some myths regarding these two and I am pleasantly surprised....Cant wait for mine.
mines on the docks .didnt even look at the non turbo. im excited . hurry up give me my car
Thanks for the review. My 2016 Outback 3.6R 6 cylinder is no doubt thirstier, but it goes like the clappers when switched to sports sharp #. The 6 cylinder delivers more kilowatts at around 196kw. Nothing beats it bang for buck.
It doesn’t have the torque down low. The kw up high don’t do much. The XT will be faster
@@australianmade2659: mere 10ths in it though. In fact, the U.S. magazine "Car and Driver" has instrumented tests of both cars with the 2018 Outback 3.6 being 2.5 seconds quicker than the turbo to the (old favourite) "100mph" mark. And a higher top speed by about 15kph, but granted, not that speed matters in an Outback.
It’s interesting how the fuel companies get into bed with car manufacturers. Here in the USA the turbo does NOT require higher octane fuel than the NA (naturally aspirated) models. I’ve owned my 22 Touring XT Outback for a year now. She’s a gas hog but a million times more fun to drive than the NA. The Touring models also have laminated glass and they are super quiet inside. Great video as always. Thank you from the USA. 👍🏻
Nice review Tom. Did you run the NA version on 91 or 95 RON fuel? The power figures Subaru quote are for 95 RON if you read the fine print in the specifications. Was there much difference in the transmission performance? The XT uses a heavy duty CVT.
98 for both for consistency.
4:29 is that for a Outback XT model or normal model? he did not specify.
How much to fix the tutbo when it breaks?
One great thing is more interesting review…soon am opting to buy out back xt zero mileage and test it here in kenya….🇰🇪🇰🇪🇰🇪🇰🇪
It’s been a month since I got my XT exact color and mode . Love it and will keep this for a long time ❤.
I had 2022 non turbo Outback, I now have 2023 Outback Turbo and it's for sure worth it.
Do you mind me asking what you had to pay for the difference? Have contemplated doing the same.
Just got my xt.
Love it. Quiet and plenty of shove.
Just got a 24 XT in green. Had a 22 Outback Premium, which I traded in fir a 23 Ascent Onyx. Mpgs on the Ascent are the worst ever. 14-17 city. The other day I was reading 13.1 mpg. So traded that in on the. 24 Outback XT. Im an Outback guy at heart.
Enjoy.
Got 2022 Outback with 2.4 turbo. Fuel mileage is 1 mpg less than 2.5 engine because 2.5 works harder at higher rpm at same speed as 2.4. I enjoy the extra power and performance. Also will get higher resale value on 2.4.
Very unique / independent reviews ; please keep on your outstanding comments . Thank you !
I have a 2015 USA Outback, 208,000Kms. and has been an excellent vehicle 8.0L/100KM overall. I am not sure about the long term reliability and longevity of the turbo version, including all the extra stress on the CVT transmission.
anyone on here have any experience with long hwy trips going 80mph? for either vehicle or what is the top mph before fuel mileage starts to decrease?
great review
Interesting to see a review on models for a different country. My 2022 wilderness trim outback in the states comes with the turbo.
The motor here uses regular not premium fuel. I am averaging 22 to 23 mpg.
This is my ninth Subaru and I will not ever get another non turbo again, the normally aspirated just does not have the power needed.
I would actually like to see them move away from the CVT as it's just garbage overall. We have a 2013 Legacy which has a normal automatic and the performance and fuel mileage are better than anything we have with the CVT.
You do not have a wilderness trim option in Australia?
Nice review for your part of the world.
lower stress vs impact of turbo on the engine and turbo replacement cost? I am not convinced by Subie Quality. Friend with a 2017 Outback recently faced a broken rear axle. On my 2017 transmission failed; thankfully within the 6 year extended warranty I got it with (would be in trouble if I had todays standard 5 years with no extension option). Also, my sunroof leaks when parked on an angle; the dealer cannot find the issue however, they have agreed to replace my infotainment unit whose Bluetooth is periodically failing. I have also had my steering wheel replaced. All up, there's probably 8k+ repairs either done or awaiting to be done.
I still drive my 06 OB TX which has a 5 speed manual. One of the best cars I've ever owned. It does everything, fun to drive, lots of utility and the car "moves!". What scares me about these new cars is the level of complexity. Long term I can see all these gadgets causing problems. That touch screen in particular is of concern which I would rarely use. CVT are not very inspiring or as reliable as a manual. All that stuff turns into a liability overtime. If they could only sell the 06 OB XT I'd buy another one in a second as I tend to keep cars a long time. BTW, all the engine problems I had were "turbo" related (stretched/burnt exhaust valve and a blown-out wastegate). My 92 legacy wagon ran like a champ for 300K miles before I sold it with the original clutch.
Thanks for the nice review. I agree that the XT is a good alternative to atmospheric engines. And the turbo gives more emotion, as for me, and in general, both cars from Subaru are a balanced choice.
I have 2021 Outback Onyx XT (USA). The US version does not require premium fuel. Interesting that the Australian spec version requires it. Same engine
Excellent review thank you.
Thanks for watching!
Thanks for the great and valuable review. Exact what I need. Good job guys.
Our pleasure!
here in North America, Subaru says the low grade octane gas (87) is just fine with the turbo, only if you're towing, then you'd want to use premium gas
My 15' Outback is no race car, but I find it's performance just fine for me. I'm getting up to 33 m.p.g on a trip! As a retired auto tech, I saw to many 'turbo cars' develop problems as they racked up miles! It's about choices , drive what you like! Thanks for your report!
Agree!
Looking at numerous reviews of the 2.4L Turbo most people warn you to do oil changes regularly and don't stress the CVT, the CVT is not made for fast acceleration. I went with 2.5L NA and being over 65 I am more than satisfied with how it drives and really like the LKA and adaptive cruise control. Bothe features take the stress out of driving my 2023 Premium with option pkg. 15 which added the sunroof and some minor added features like BSD It does not include an auto dimming HomeLink style rearview mirror but the lack of it has not bothered me driving in suburban traffic at night.
incredibly helpful video, thanks guys.... surprised with the urban fuel economy of the XT!
So were we!
I use regular fuel in my XT in Canada. No need for premium. Wonder why the difference?
First time viewer and subscribed. So good to have some IRL sorts of info regarding noise, fuel consumption, running cost and ect. Good job mate.
There is no simple answer to this question that applies to everyone. It depends on your personal preferences and values. I chose the turbo because I value the added performance it offers, but not everyone does. There is also the question of long term reliability, and the non-turbo will probably win that contest, as we all know turbo engines trend to be less reliable as they age. The Outback is a great vehicle with either engine, and which one you choose just comes down to your preferences and how you plan to use the vehicle.