We drive the Subaru Outback Sport XT AWD SUV |

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.

We drove the Sport 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

Readers can find full details about the Subaru Outback XT HERE

TO LISTEN TO THE SUBARU SPORT XT RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

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 XT Sport, 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.

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

Also look at

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

Buyers could look to Nissan Pathfinder, Hyundai Santa Fe, Mazda CX-8, Skoda Kodiaq RS, Kia Sorento,

As an alternative there is the Audi A4 All Road, Landrover Discovery Sport, Skoda Superb Scout AWD

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
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)

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.

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

Radio Segments Motoring Minute

Motoring Minute is heard around Australia every day on over 50 radio channels through the Torque Radio network.

Motoring Minute has an average daily audience of over 550,000 listeners. They are also syndicated through various news sites around Australia.

Motoring Minute is also part of the Overdrive Radio Program. This can be found weekly on the Community Radio Network across Australia.

Overall Rating

9.4/10

Summary

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.

We drive the Subaru Outback Sport XT AWD SUV

Subaru Outback Sport XT road test review 2023

TO LISTEN TO THE SUBARU SPORT XT RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Other Subaru Outback articles