Subaru Outback Sport XT 2023 Review

Is the Outback Sport XT any good

Outback Sport XT – Over the last few months, we have driven the new Outback XT a few times, mainly the Touring model but last week we took the Sport version for an extended drive.     Subaru Outback XT Sport front exterior quarter 1 We drove the Sport XT over 1700km for the two weeks we had it. This included long distance cruising, lots of dirt roads, a bit of icy conditions and pottering around town.

We also took the Sport to the farm and drove around there for a few days.

It was cold out there, around 2 degrees, so the toasty seat warmers were appreciated. The full-time symmetrical AWD and X Mode ensured that the Sport XT handled the dirt roads, icy tar roads and around farm driving with ease.

On a particularly long stretch, I was in the car driving for seven hours and the cabin ergonomics and comfortable seats meant that I was relaxed and not tired when I arrived.

The more powerful engine in the XT responds beautifully to all situations. Economy was around 8.8L/100k for the time we had the vehicle.

The Outback Sport XT may miss out on a few cosmetic features of the Touring Model like sunroof and memory front seats but is well equipped and priced from $52,190 plus the usual costs its outstanding value.

This is a Motoring Minute

I’m Rob Fraser

Subaru Outback XT Sport central screen 1

Readers can find full details about the Subaru Outback XT HERE 

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Subaru Outback XT Sport X-Mode

Some quick thoughts about the Outback Sport XT

  • Sport XT sits below the Touring model and misses a few cosmetic, bling and convenience features.
  • However, they aren’t really missed as it has all the safety and drive features you want.
  • More power and torque are always a good thing
  • Revised suspension means improved handling without compromising ride.
  • It’s needed for greater towing performance.
  • 2400kg is about best in class for towing.
  • Over 1700km in the two weeks I had the Sport XT, and it was particularly comfortable, and relaxing to drive.
  • Long distances were a breeze.
  • The Autumn Green Metallic, or Olive as I call it, gathered quite a few comments from people. They seemed to really like it.

Subaru Outback XT Sport central screen 2

What is good?

  • Awesome value for money
  • Infotainment and connectivity Technology
  • AWD capability

What is not so good?

  • Would love 225kW/400Nm version
  • No HUD
  • No massage seats

Subaru Outback XT Sport front exterior bonnet and grill 1

Also look at

The Outback crosses a few categories. full on AWD SUV, family wagon or city runabout.

Buyers could look to  Nissan PathfinderHyundai Santa FeMazda CX-8Skoda Kodiaq RSKia Sorento

As an alternative there is the Audi A4 All RoadLandrover Discovery SportSkoda Superb Scout AWD

Subaru Outback XT Sport front exterior profile 1

Subaru Outback Sport XT Final thoughts’

Since the Outback XT introduction, it’s been a huge success. I’m a little confused how Subaru can offer such stunning value for money in  their models.

I am a fan of the Subaru Outback. The Outback XT is better.

The Outback Sport XT may miss out on a few cosmetic and bling features that the Touring model has. But it doesn’t really miss them.

It, however, is excellent value for money and perhaps the smarter buy.

The more powerful engine overcomes the shortfalls in the original Outback model. Its adequate but the XT is substantially better again.

You can buy a Subaru Outback XT and a decent all terrain camper trailer or hybrid van for about the same as a full 4WD in many instances.

For most people this will completely satisfy their adventurous spirit.

Subaru Outback XT Sport engine

Subaru Outback

Model

Outback Sport XT

Model Price $51,190 MLP*
Engine 2.4L 4 Cyl Turbo Boxer
Drivetrain 8 step CVT Symmetrical AWD /  Active Torque Split
Battery Capacity / type N/A
Power 183kW @ 6,000rpm
Torque 350Nm @ 2,000 – 4,800rpm
Fuel ADR 9.0L/100km
Fuel on Test 9.5L/100km
Fuel capacity 63L
Range (WLTP) / efficiency 863km Max
Fast Charge / Home (240V) N/A
Safety Five-star ANCAP (March 2021)
CO2 Emissions 204g/km
0-100kmh/Top Speed TBA
Servicing 12 Mth / 12,500km – Capped Price
Warranty 5yr/ Unlimited km with 5Yr. conditional roadside assist

*MLP Includes GST and LCT but excluding statutory charges, dealer costs and dealer delivery. See your dealer for RDAP. Does not include price of options. Some features mentioned in the article are options. RDAP means Recommended Drive Away Price (without options but including all other charges)

Subaru Outback XT Sport interior front 1

Overall Rating    

94/100

Behind the Wheel 9
Comfort 9
Equipment 9
Performance 9
Ride and Handling 9
Practicality 10
Fit for Purpose 10
AWD / Towing * 10 (5/5 – 5/5)
Technology/connectivity 9
Value for Money 10

*Towing and AWD capability is measured against similar vehicles in the same class.

Outback Sport XT-AutumnGreen-19

Dimensions

 
Overall Length 4870mm
Wheelbase 2745mm
Width 1875mm
Height 1670mm
Wheels 18×7.0 Alloy
Tyres 225/60 R18
Max ground clearance Up to 213mm
Wading Depth TBC
Approach TBC
Rampover TBC
Departure angle TBC
Turning Circle KTK 11.0m
Boot Capacity Min 522L
Boot capacity Max 1783L
Battery Weight N/A
Kerb Weight 1770kg
Payload (kg) 430kg
GVM (kg) 2200kg
GCM 4600kg
Towing Capacity 2400kg
Tow Ball rating 240kg

Subaru Outback XT Sport rear exterior quarter 2

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  • 9.4/10
    Overall Rating - 9.4/10
9.4/10

Summary

Since the Outback XT introduction, it’s been a huge success. I’m a little confused how Subaru can offer such stunning value for money in  their models.

I am a fan of the Subaru Outback. The Outback XT is better.

The Outback Sport XT may miss out on a few cosmetic and bling features that the Touring model has. But it doesn’t really miss them.

It, however, is excellent value for money and perhaps the smarter buy.

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About Rob Fraser 2506 Articles
Rob Fraser – General dogsbody & Director Rob is the founder of the business. He constantly mutters something about way too many red wines one evening being to blame. Often known for taking the 4WD in the driveway over the sports car, he has travelled pretty much everywhere in Australia and when he is bored goes for a drive. He first learned to drive on the farm in a left hand drive WW11 Jeep when he was 11, and was hooked on 4WDriving way back then. In addition to 4WD he is an avid motoring enthusiast and has maintained a strong interest in the industry ever since his teens. He has owned way too many cars in his time as well. Having previously lived at the top of corporate life he retired in 2000 and hasn’t put a suit and tie on since. Cars are his passion so why not have a business doing what you love he figures. He has towed either a caravan or camper trailer to most parts of Australia, has run guided tours for camper trailers’ and instructed drivers in off road towing.