Subaru Outback 2.5 vs XT 2.4 Turbo

In this video I share what the differences are between the Subaru Outback 2.5 and the XT 2.4T turbo engine.

While they appear the same from the outside, there are many differences between the Subaru Outback 2.5 and XT.

Comment below with any questions you have!

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Thanks for watching!

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[patrickwilson]

Purchased a 2022 Subaru OB Touring XT a few months ago and drive it to Canada from No. California. 2300 miles round trip.
28.2 mpg. Turbo was nice when passing big trucks. Adaptive cruise control worked very well. I like that the speed limit is posted next to the speedometer--while in BC, the car converts the metric to miles per hour and posts so it is easily seen.
I found the driver's seat uncomfortable with my bad back and bought a seat "wedge" that fixed that problem nicely.

[martinburns]

Hi Alex. Thanks for the video. Subaru Australia has just released details about our 2023 Outback line up. The exterior has not been updated but we will now get the 2.4 litre turbo. Power output is 183kW and 350 Nm. These are down 10kW / 25 Nm on the US model. Though our towing capacity for the turbo is 2400kg/ 5300lbs. 240 kg tow ball down load. XT is available on midspec Sport and top tier Touring models.

[rachelleherron]

I just bought a second hand 2008 2.5 outback and we love it.

[randthompson]

Alex. Besides the boost when needed, no one talks about Onyx front facing camera that is greatly appreciated on close front manuvering. Also the XT has a high torque transmission that is markedly different from the one in the 2.5.
Ive had 3 Outbacks, 2 with the 2.5 and the year+ old '22 with the 2.4 DIT. Phenomenal drive system! Hope i never have to go back.
The difference in mileage is minuscule for the difference between the two.
Tho i liked the 2.5 I'd never driven the 2.4.
Anyone undecided should drive both before deciding IMO.

[sevenhigh]

Alex, thanks for your videos. I just brought home the Touring XT this week, and was using your videos as a source of info to make my purchase. When I showed up at the dealer I was even informing him about features he was not aware of such as the secret PIN number access . Thanks again!

[lovestihlquality]

2020 Outback Touring. The RAB did save me recently. Moving over to end space to avoid door dings. Bright sun and low ballard post. Ford Excursion has audible rear park sensors.

[XxXenosxX]

Get the XT! Mines arriving late November right in time for the winter 🎉🎉🎉

[tutiefruitie]

I bought a 2022 Subaru Outback Touring but the car is still on the ship from Japan and will arrive in Sydney Australia in 2 months. I’ve been driving European cars my whole life then decided to go for a Subaru. Best decision ever because this car is an absolute pleasure to drive. It’s extremely comfortable and spacious. The XT turbo version will arrive in Australia sometimes next year so I’ll test drive that one and see if I want that extra kilowatts/horsepower.

[PBandJ]

Great review. I still lean towards the Touring XT.

[williamerskine]

Alex, glad your back making videos. BTW, there is a visual 'tell' on the front of the Outbacks. On the 2.5L cars, the top section of grill (above the badge) is filled in solid. On the XT's that area is open and ducted (via ducting on the underside of the hood) to the intercooler.

[jeffmorse]

I have a 2021 Legacy Touring XT and at the time I bought it the dealer only had that model. In retrospect wish I'd shopped around other dealerships to get a Limited with the 2.5 and without moonroof, navigation and Driver Focus package. While the brown nappa leather interior is beautiful and the ventilated seats are nice and the turbo is fun sometimes, I don't think they were worth an extra $5, 500. Plus the better MPG would be helpful right now. So yeah, if I were shopping for an Outback I'd get the naturally aspirated 2.5.

[dlg]

I've had a helluva time deciding between a Forester and a Outback. I like the Forester for its value, higher seating position and incredible visibility and I like the Outback for its overall comfort/ride quality and of course the turbo engine. I actually ordered a 2023 Forester Touring at the beginning of Oct but I canceled it 3 weeks in and switched to the Outback Onyx XT. As a lifelong driving enthusiast and a previous WRX owner, I knew I wouldn't be satisfied with the 2.5 and the Outback Onyx is the least expensive way to get the 2.4 turbo. I certainly didn't want to spend this much, but I am getting the VIP program price and a $750 loyalty discount, so I'm paying about $37k, including $800 in accessories...not too bad! I'm glad I changed my mind before it was too late.

[tzieser]

Love my 2.5. A turbo in a kid cruiser was unnecessary for our situation and a bit of a hindrance with the CVT.

[vrmuppet]

2.5 for me, I drive too many miles to give up that reliability. I've had too many friends with turbo subaru engine failures. 2.5 is rock solid. These aren't race cars, 2.5 is plenty of power for what the car is. I'll roll 190k miles this week in my 2016 2.5 without a hiccup. Onyx 2.5 is next in line if I can find one when the time comes.

[filly.]

Thanks for an honest review on the differences, I enjoyed this video.

[danek]

I wish they come with Forester moon roof, most Subaru visiting lot of parks and forest, it’s unfortunate you can’t look up.

[darrellborland]

the xt onyx is great...only bad design is the info system...mpg mostly hwy around 27.5-30mpg...it can dip if conditions not perfect.

[Wedgetail]

In Australia, these are approx $60000 on the road, and apparently require high octane fuel. Amazing the difference in global markets. Also, we don't get the Wilderness option on either the Outback or Forrester.

[laylee]

Hi, Alex. I ordered my 2023 Touring in July. I am on pins and needles waiting for it to come. This is my first Subaru, I've been driving a Honda and Nissan. I have enjoyed watching your videos, you provide excellent information.

[Rowan]

We have a ‘22 XT Touring. And, it really bugs me that Subaru decided to not make any exterior differences between the two. I really wish they incorporated a hood scoop like the older XTs had. I think it makes a huge difference in the appearance of the vehicle. I think the XTs (non Onyx or Wilderness) should have different rims, grill and actually have dual exhaust tips. I know why they keep them tucked under - for better a departure angle. But…certainly there’s something that could have been done. I have many issues with the car, exterior appearance aside. It is quick though. And, more fun to drive than the older ones.