2023 Subaru Outback Touring XT Review: Is It Worth It?

Hey guys! Thinking about snagging the 2023 Subaru Outback Touring XT in Australia? You've come to the right place! We're diving deep into this popular wagon to see if it lives up to the hype and, more importantly, if it's worth your hard-earned cash. Let's get started!

What Makes the Outback Touring XT Special?

The Subaru Outback Touring XT isn't your average wagon; it's the top-of-the-line Outback, boasting a potent turbocharged engine and a luxurious interior. It's designed for those who want a blend of off-road capability, everyday practicality, and premium comfort. This model aims to be the ultimate all-rounder, perfect for both adventurous weekend getaways and the daily grind. Let's break down some of its key features that set it apart.

Turbocharged Engine

The heart of the Touring XT is its 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. This powerplant churns out a healthy 183 kW (246 horsepower) and 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) of torque, providing ample power for overtaking, towing, and tackling challenging terrains. Unlike the naturally aspirated engine in the base Outback models, the turbocharger delivers a noticeable boost in performance, making the driving experience more engaging and enjoyable. This extra grunt is particularly useful when the car is fully loaded with passengers and cargo, ensuring it never feels strained or underpowered.

Luxurious Interior

Stepping inside the Outback Touring XT, you're greeted with a refined and comfortable cabin. High-quality materials, such as Nappa leather upholstery, adorn the seats and door panels, providing a premium feel. The seats are not only aesthetically pleasing but also offer excellent support and cushioning, making long journeys a breeze. The attention to detail is evident throughout the interior, with thoughtful touches like contrast stitching, woodgrain accents, and soft-touch surfaces that elevate the overall ambiance. It’s a space designed to make every drive feel special, whether you’re commuting to work or embarking on a cross-country adventure.

Advanced Technology

The Touring XT is packed with cutting-edge technology designed to enhance both safety and convenience. The centerpiece is the large 11.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which seamlessly integrates navigation, audio controls, and smartphone connectivity. The system is intuitive and responsive, making it easy to use while on the move. Additionally, the Outback Touring XT comes standard with Subaru's EyeSight driver-assist system, which includes features like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. These technologies work together to provide an extra layer of safety and peace of mind, helping you stay alert and avoid potential accidents. The inclusion of a high-quality Harman Kardon sound system further enhances the in-car entertainment experience, delivering crisp and immersive audio for music lovers.

Off-Road Capability

Like all Outback models, the Touring XT comes standard with Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, providing excellent traction and stability in a variety of conditions. The X-Mode system further enhances off-road capability by optimizing the engine, transmission, and brakes for tackling challenging terrains like snow, mud, and sand. With its generous ground clearance and rugged suspension, the Outback Touring XT is well-equipped to handle unpaved roads and light off-road trails. It's a vehicle that inspires confidence, allowing you to explore beyond the beaten path without compromising on comfort or safety. Whether you're navigating a rocky mountain pass or traversing a sandy beach, the Outback Touring XT is up to the task, making it a versatile choice for adventurous drivers.

Driving Experience: How Does It Perform?

Okay, let's get behind the wheel and see how the Outback Touring XT actually drives. The turbocharged engine makes a huge difference compared to the standard Outback. You'll notice the extra power immediately when accelerating from a standstill or overtaking on the highway. The engine is responsive and delivers strong performance across the rev range, making it a joy to drive in various conditions. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) is well-tuned and provides smooth and seamless gear changes. While some may not be fans of CVTs, Subaru has done a commendable job in minimizing the typical CVT drone and rubber-band feeling.

On-Road Performance

On the road, the Outback Touring XT offers a comfortable and composed ride. The suspension soaks up bumps and road imperfections with ease, providing a smooth and refined driving experience. The steering is precise and well-weighted, giving you confidence and control behind the wheel. The Outback handles corners surprisingly well for a vehicle of its size, with minimal body roll. The all-wheel-drive system ensures excellent traction, even in wet or slippery conditions. Whether you're cruising down the highway or navigating city streets, the Outback Touring XT delivers a comfortable and enjoyable driving experience.

Off-Road Prowess

Off the beaten path, the Outback Touring XT proves its worth as a capable and versatile adventure vehicle. The Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system provides excellent grip on loose surfaces, while the X-Mode system optimizes the vehicle's settings for tackling challenging terrains. The generous ground clearance allows you to clear obstacles without scraping the undercarriage. The Outback can confidently handle moderate off-road trails, making it ideal for exploring national parks, camping in remote areas, or simply venturing off the paved road. While it's not a hardcore rock crawler, the Outback Touring XT offers a perfect balance of on-road comfort and off-road capability.

Ride Comfort and Handling

The ride comfort in the Outback Touring XT is exceptional, thanks to its well-tuned suspension and comfortable seats. Whether you're embarking on a long road trip or simply commuting to work, you'll appreciate the smooth and refined ride quality. The seats offer excellent support and cushioning, keeping you comfortable even on extended drives. The cabin is also well-insulated, minimizing road noise and creating a peaceful and relaxing environment. The handling is surprisingly nimble for a vehicle of its size, with responsive steering and minimal body roll. The Outback Touring XT strikes a perfect balance between comfort and performance, making it a joy to drive in various conditions.

Interior and Features: What's Inside?

Let's talk about the inside of the Outback Touring XT. As mentioned earlier, the interior is a step above the lower trims. The Nappa leather seats are super comfortable and feel luxurious. The 11.6-inch touchscreen is the centerpiece of the dashboard and controls almost everything, from the radio to the climate control. It might take a little getting used to, but once you do, it's pretty intuitive.

Technology and Infotainment

The 11.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system is a standout feature of the Outback Touring XT. It offers a user-friendly interface, crisp graphics, and quick response times. The system supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone. The built-in navigation system is accurate and easy to use, providing turn-by-turn directions and real-time traffic updates. The Harman Kardon sound system delivers excellent audio quality, making your favorite music sound even better. The Outback Touring XT also comes standard with a range of advanced safety technologies, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking.

Comfort and Convenience

The Outback Touring XT offers a range of comfort and convenience features designed to enhance the driving experience. The heated and ventilated front seats keep you comfortable in any weather, while the heated steering wheel warms your hands on cold days. The power moonroof provides natural light and fresh air. The hands-free power liftgate makes it easy to load and unload cargo. The Outback Touring XT also comes standard with a range of storage compartments and cupholders, providing ample space for your belongings. The spacious rear seats offer plenty of legroom and headroom, making it comfortable for passengers of all sizes.

Storage and Practicality

The Outback Touring XT excels in storage and practicality, making it an ideal choice for families and outdoor enthusiasts. The cargo area offers a generous amount of space for luggage, groceries, or camping gear. The rear seats can be folded down to create even more room, allowing you to carry larger items. The Outback also comes standard with roof rails, providing a convenient way to transport bikes, kayaks, or other outdoor equipment. The spacious interior offers ample storage compartments and cupholders, keeping your belongings organized and within easy reach. Whether you're embarking on a road trip or simply running errands around town, the Outback Touring XT offers the versatility and practicality you need.

Is the Outback Touring XT Worth the Money?

Now for the big question: Is the 2023 Subaru Outback Touring XT worth the money? Well, it depends on your needs and priorities. If you value a powerful engine, a luxurious interior, and a capable all-wheel-drive system, then the Touring XT is definitely worth considering. However, it does come with a higher price tag than the base Outback models. You need to weigh the benefits against the cost and decide if the extra features and performance are worth the investment.

Value Proposition

The Outback Touring XT offers a strong value proposition for those who prioritize performance, luxury, and versatility. While it's more expensive than the base Outback models, it offers a significant upgrade in terms of engine power, interior quality, and features. The turbocharged engine provides a noticeable boost in performance, making it more enjoyable to drive in various conditions. The luxurious interior offers a comfortable and refined driving experience. The advanced safety technologies provide added peace of mind. If you're looking for a vehicle that can handle both everyday commutes and weekend adventures, the Outback Touring XT is definitely worth considering.

Alternatives to Consider

Before making a final decision, it's always a good idea to consider some alternatives. The Mazda CX-5 and Toyota RAV4 are popular choices in the compact SUV segment, offering similar levels of practicality and fuel efficiency. The Honda CR-V is another strong contender, known for its spacious interior and reliability. If you're looking for a more luxurious option, the Acura RDX and Lexus NX are worth considering. Ultimately, the best vehicle for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. Be sure to test drive a few different models before making a final decision.

Final Verdict

The 2023 Subaru Outback Touring XT is a fantastic wagon that offers a compelling blend of performance, luxury, and capability. It's perfect for those who want a vehicle that can handle both everyday commutes and weekend adventures. While it's not the cheapest option on the market, it offers a strong value proposition for those who appreciate its unique combination of features. If you're in the market for a versatile and well-equipped wagon, the Outback Touring XT is definitely worth a look. Just make sure you do your research and compare it with other models to ensure it's the right fit for you.

So, there you have it – a comprehensive review of the 2023 Subaru Outback Touring XT in Australia. Hopefully, this helps you make an informed decision! Happy driving!