Subaru Outback XT Sport AWD SUV 2023 Review

Outback XT Sport – 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 XT Sport 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 XT Sport 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 XT SPORT RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

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• 2023 Subaru Outback Touring AWD SUV 2023 Review
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• Drive into Spring: Sydney to Port Stephens in Subaru Outback, Part One.
• 2019 Subaru Outback – Touring Central West NSW

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.

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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.

*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)

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

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