Subaru Outback XT 2025 review

[@ashjurius]

After buying my first Outback, I wondered why I never bought one before. It is the best vehicle I've ever driven. My previous vehicles were VW Polo, then Golf R, then VW Amarok. The Outback is very underrated.

[@synoptik1800]

That's quite a statement you made. I own lexus.. and want to explore Subaru .. still on the fence tho..

[@frankb616]

​@@synoptik1800- Yeah, definitely worth a look. Plush like a Lexus, rides as well or better, but so nice if you live anywhere snow. I have had several all-wheel and four wheel drive vehicles over the years, but the thing I like best about the Subaru is the lack of torque steer under acceleration.

[@SteveM-n8v]

I’ve had mine for three months now, after purchasing it in Perth. The dealer mentioned that only two were sold in the area at the time, so I knew I had to act fast. I’m so glad I did-I absolutely love it! I highly recommend it, and if you get the chance, don’t hesitate to grab it! It's just has the best or both worlds, high end features plus that sporty look. Also the colour is constantly complimented! 🎉😊

[@adamhend3211]

I got the XT and it just does everything effortlessly. I'm on my forth Subaru now, but my first turbo model and I'm very happy with it.

[@leigh71able]

Same number of Subies, same new xt. Love everything about it except the indicators are different than the others. A little more difficult to differentiate between short lane change and full on indicating. For full on turn indication it dosnt have physical feelings of click and hold in place.

[@crashtestcal6484]

@@leigh71able I’m not a fan of the indicators either. They’re always making a fool outta me. Slowly getting used to them after 18 months.

[@adamhend3211]

@@leigh71able Yes, the indicator is a little annoying, my 1019 Forester was user friendly. I'm also disappointed that the mirrors don't automatically fold when you lock the car like it did on my Forester.

[@FatGuntah]

I've got the non turbo 2022 Touring and it's my favourite car ever. It just does everything well, it's wonderfully comfortable, and the AWD system means it handles like it's on rails. Could it be better - sure, but not a lot IMHO.

[@andrewiverach659]

I have done 198,000km on a 2018 model and 60,000km on a 2023 model. Both base model and just regular service. Not one thing has gone wrong with this car. I do a lot of freeway driving and achieve 7.1/100km. Very comfortable car to tour in.

[@therightcar]

That’s amazing. Either of them turbo or the 2.5 NA?

[@andrewiverach659]

@ just base model petrol ran on 91. Just got back from Warrnambool and un believable amount of outback’s on the Hume. Not many Chinese cars as yet.

[@franklinchen6200]

I’m going to pick up my Touring on Friday next week, exciting. We’ve owned a Forester for over three years, a great family car. I do like Subaru. Update- have driven my Outback Touring for a few days, and travelled about 300kms. Pros: comfy, better ride quality and body control than Forester, another level Cons-only the touch screen, so annoying, you can accidentally touch any button but the one that is supposed to be touched, quite unsafe while you are driving. 9/10

[@c.s2001]

Enjoy 😊

[@rayalliston7702]

Good luck with the cvt

[@rayalliston7702]

proven? so many other problems

[@frankb616]

Yeah, we got the 2019 3.6r rather than the 2020 XT specifically to avoid the reduction in physical knobs.

[@brianhoward9217]

Great review - thank you! We have had a 2014 3.6R model since new and have 160K on the clock now. We have been told it will need probably $13K worth of work on front gaskets and other stuff inside the next 12 months so we're looking to replace it within 6 months. I've seen pics of the new platform 2026 model and it looks horrendously large and boxy like all the other box-on-wheels 4WD things. The current car handles and looks like a sedan-based old-school wagon, which I love. Looks like this 2025 turbo model may be the one to get and keep for another 10 years. The price is fairly rude though but have to think about that one. Our 3.6R has been fairly reliable but services more exxy than other brands. Bit to think on here. Maybe the baby version, a 2.5L Crosstrek? We shall see. Happy '25 everyone!

[@markdalton3603]

Absolutely love my 2024 XT Sport Touring!😊

[@Jaydee254]

I personally don’t like the trend of having screens everywhere. Prefer the analogue tach and speedometer. This is a brilliant car need to test drive it! might be showing my age but this hits all the boxes for my growing family !

[@therightcar]

Nothing wrong with showing your age 😅

[@gregturner_awod]

I nearly bought the XT version of the Outback some time ago, but went to EV instead. For distance road travel regionally this would be a comfortable and and safe car that has the clearance to manage lousy regional roads. Thanks for an excellent review.

[@simonmanners4108]

It’s a nice vehicle, quality build as well. I think the thing about Subaru is my understanding is they really back their vehicles warranty wise without being jerks and having to be threatened with legal action.

[@hansjkruger]

I bought a 2023 Outback Touring XT new, and it's now on 37000 km. What an excellent car so far. We really enjoy it. The turbo version is bloody quick, and the ample and flat torque curve pairs surprisingly well with the CVT. It cruises effortlessly and quietly at 1500 rpm @ 100km/h. We live in a regional area, and drive mostly freeway. Consumption averages around 8.5 l/100 per tank, easily better than the claimed 9 l/100 km. That said, in an urban traffic environment it will be a lot thirstier. Cons: safety tech is too noisy and intrusive and gets switched off. Rear springs could be firmer, especially when carrying 4 passengers and load.

[@shaktishaker]

I actually love mine. Super comfortable, fast and lots of cargo room.

[@therightcar]

I can understand your love of it - it’s a quality car!

[@russellchristison8425]

I’ll be getting a touring XT in March. By the way the sun visors slide so when they are on the side windows you won’t be getting sun in your eyes

[@therightcar]

I know that. But they’re still too short.

[@SM-uy7oj]

Did you have to order it? How long does it take to arrive from Japan?

[@russellchristison8425]

@ there is plenty available for immediate delivery, I just have to wait for the money to be available

[@crashtestcal6484]

I have a 2023 XT Sport and its service intervals are every 15,000 km’s, not 12,500.

[@johnsipolis]

15.000kms is too much, I do mine at 10.000kms.

[@crashtestcal6484]

@ I agree, and I’d do that if I was keeping the car for more than 5 years, none the less that’s what’s in the manual.

[@A861967]

I went for the wrx sports wagon 😊 Very close in getting the Xt outback but didn’t like the slower steering and jack up looks. Perhaps next time or next version. Great review as always.

[@therightcar]

Thanks mate! Good choice.

[@martinburns342]

These Sport Touring spec models are just the leftover 50th anniversary addition cars they couldn't sell. Just change the badge on the tailgate and you have a "new" model, simple. I own an XT Touring, and I love it. The rear shocks could be a bit firmer, to remove the tendency of a secondary bounce, would be my only criticism of the ride and handling.

[@hansjkruger]

I agree it needs firmer rear shocks. Love mine otherwise.

[@michaelostrowski8630]

The rear shocks should be firmer on the rebound only to preserve the reasonable ride quality and reduce the secondary bounce.

[@scott-wright]

Love they retained analogue dials. Maybe I’m old school

[@therightcar]

You are. And that’s okay. 👌

[@frankb616]

Just bought our first Outback, a 2019 3.6r. Got it instead of a 2020 XT specifically because it has physical knobs for most common functions. Can keep my eyes on the road. Outdated? Only if you consider useful to be outdated.

[@theotherleft6113]

The lack of 360degree camera at this price point is very disappointing. I'm comparing the Outback to the current Mitsubishi Outlander.

[@bagwa8]

Have you driven them side by side on the same “track”? I did (as well as a Sportage and X-Trail) and the XT is a standout in comparison. More predictable, responsive and precise on windy hilly roads, far less body roll and it drives almost like a sedan. Sure if you like gadgets and digital displays the others will impress more for sure, but if you drive longish distances regularly the Touring XT is the best of the bunch for mine. I take delivery next week.

[@DocDarnell]

I'm loving my 2017 Touring 3.6R. This one looks good, but I wish Sub would return with the 6 cylinders.

[@scott-wright]

I wish they still made the Liberty wagon

[@seabiped3451]

That’s what put me off this Outback, the driver monitoring and constant beeping. Bought one of the last Passat Alltracks instead.

[@therightcar]

Good on you! Great car.

[@davidscott820]

Can't beat Subies...just a fantastic car to drive.

[@therightcar]

Super easy to live with!

[@davidscott820]

@@therightcar yes, I've had 5. Still wish I'd kept the first one. 06 XT Forrie with a turbo back exhaust and custom tune. License shredder 🙄

[@robertceroli3512]

Until the the tcv eggs up

[@davidscott820]

@@robertceroli3512 na...they are good now. They have had over 10 yrs to sort out and problems. I still have an 2018 Impreza and goes really well.

[@robertcudlipp3426]

Do you even like those ordinary CVT transmissions?

[@dwightwiles3rd.338]

Dang, hear in the U S A not offering. Talked with a dealer representative they told me to wait till late summer of 2025. There will be a small redesign don't no if that's true can't find anything on line.

[@Beyondesp]

Looks like the Aussie Outback Touring XT looks like a specced out American Onyx edition. (And wheel on the right side ) Oh and there being no wireless charger is a plus as the wireless charger is terrible. I took mine out of my OB. I like the cool green accents.

[@michaelostrowski8630]

The wireless charger is a great idea that has been poorly executed in the Outback. The phone soon overheats and stops working.

[@andrewleventis8341]

My first outback 3 years ago, way better than the bmw x3 and x5s that I owned over the last 20 years, damn I wish I discovered Subarus then

[@dkkli985]

Super excited to see Subaru is bringing back the turbo engine for the Outback. Hope they will do the same for the Forester too.

[@scott-wright]

When did the Outback ever have a turbo petrol engine in its history?

[@dkkli985]

@@scott-wright I was meant to say a more powerful engine back to the Outback (like the old V6). But you are right, there was only turbo engine for the Forester XT before.

[@winny6673]

A little more clearance, a little more power, and a real transmission or even a manual. A little roomier would also help.

[@ddsgardening7437]

Have had 3 Gt Forresters one WRX definitely the Turbo

[@therightcar]

Love that!

[@kmuinde]

i love analogue gauges than the digital ones

[@therightcar]

You’re in luck with Subaru, then!

[@gsh0cked]

Still love my MY15 Forester XT. The turbo model is great! Just leave it in S mode and you’ll love it. It will drink happily. Subaru has given me this model as service loan and it’s fantastic!

[@rubyred8845]

A great car. Love that blue colour. I'd buy a non turbo.

[@M8NTIS]

non turbo is gutless, it leaves it undercooked.

[@YoosYawBrayn]

XT Touring is basically a near luxury car compared to many, in this price range. Even the more expensive segments like for instance, a 3 series for, at alot less cost. Beautiful ride & quiet cabin. Your alternatives don't take into consideration reliability & resale value. GWM & VW group cars, are questionable in these area's in my opinion. A jacked up wagon with proper AWD, and 5 seats, makes alot of sense for alot of Australian families. The power of the turbo outways the extra cost for many, if not, buy the non turbo. Great car all up.

[@M8NTIS]

The wireless charger was removed because it was over heating phones, the OE Subaru on is really bad. There is a full digital speedo screen, they have it as standard on Outbacks in Japan and Israel, no doubt other countries too.

[@therightcar]

Didn’t know that. They need to fix that charger overheat situation.

[@M8NTIS]

@ it’s not uncommon (which is why you’re now seeing ventilated ones appearing) but the Sunny one is particularly bad.

[@scott-wright]

I experienced the same issue on a recent holiday in a new Tiguan. Absolutely cooked my phone and added no charge to it. Weird

[@stew4267]

I Wish they would put this engine in the Crosstrek

[@curlzbean]

No turbo available when i was shopping for my last car… got the last of the v6 klugers instead.. would have got this if available

[@martinburns342]

@@curlzbean I contemplated a V6 Kluger as well until I heard the XT was coming to Australia.

[@derekdalton5658]

That junky CVT is a deal breaker for many who test drive it. A ZF torque converter 8 speed makes this CVT seem agricultural. Mind you, the turbo would be fabulous. Nice review😊

[@therightcar]

Thank you for your thoughts!

[@johnsplitt6727]

Can you get a Subaru CD player installed at the dealer as an accessory if the car you like doesn't have one?

[@anthonywilson2210]

It has a cd player in the central arm rest

[@MarthaMansbridge]

In the UK they launched a colour like this and called it ‘Touring X’ - it has zero additional features other than this horrible colour - not even the turbo engine! We still get the same breathless 2.5L

[@oo0O0oo]

So it this just the exterior of the sport with the interior of the touring?

[@therightcar]

In essence.

[@billcane2939]

Matt, what other tyres would you recommend?

[@therightcar]

I’d suggest something like a Continental SUV tyre for a soft-road option, or something more serious for off-road stuff would be a BF Goodrich, Pirelli Scorpion, or maybe a cheaper Maxxis.

[@therightcar]

Yeah, Contis are a great compromise for an on-road and unsealed road tyre.

[@tonycoz2309]

Why doesn't Subaru offer an XT Forester anymore???

[@realjohnboxall]

To get you into an Outback XT.

[@buncha5651]

Come on, Matt, a boy racer like you would have to get the turbo. 😊

[@therightcar]

It’s the grown up hoon’s special!

[@buncha5651]

​@@therightcar Me to if there's a turbo version that's what I'd buy.

[@sunshine8556]

Missed VW Passat Alltrack and Volvo V60 Cross Country.

[@therightcar]

No Alltrack here anymore and V60 is another price segment up.

[@nguyentranlam7090]

Outback lim speed❤❤

[@buncha5651]

I've never been a fan of the looks of the Outback. There is too much black plastic.

[@therightcar]

I wish there was more on the WRX Wagon!

[@buncha5651]

​@therightcar A Forester turbo would be better, but I think it's no longer available.

[@tonybennett638]

Too expensive for the best vehicle ever made...

[@K03sport]

then get a lesser trim, simple. but don't buy the base...never buy a base trim Subaru.

[@wedantasatrya9458]

if only they have physical buttons for climate control, then it will be perfect

[@michaelostrowski8630]

As an owner of MY2023 2.5 I don't understand this criticism. Too warm or cold? press a physical button. Want to alter the fan speed? Press a button that is on the screen all the time. The CVT? I was used to the 6-speed Aisin conventional auto. Now I prefer the Subaru CVT. My only criticism of the car stems from the fact (apples and oranges, I know) that it doesn't ride as well as my 3 consecutive Citroens C5...

[@ianleckie922]

To me, new vehicles are coming down to light bulbs doing flashy things. Plastic badges to tell models apart and that’s about it.

[@c.s2001]

So its a choice of a Subaru or a Skoda. That is OK with me.

[@therightcar]

Haha!

[@mattbryan8535]

The Octavia is awesome 👍

[@zachhuang1403]

Outdated? Really bro I’m still driving 2017 Corolla, outback is my dream car😢

[@erwin734]

ur dream car is outback?

[@mattbryan8535]

🤔🤔🤔

[@scott-wright]

I’m still in a 2006 WRX wagon. Your Corolla would feel like a futuristic spaceship compared to mine. I love mine though.

[@aerienix]

Chants: Wilderness, wilderness.

[@fruitpowa9954]

No way you're comparing Subaru Outback XT with Skoda models..only one think have Skoda better...Mileage. And that’s it. In all other things is Subaru Outback XT far better car.

[@l...]

What if Lexus married Subaru Outback

[@synoptik1800]

Perfection... I'm thinking of changing from Lexus to this

[@rayor1661]

I almost going for this top spec xt, how everthe turbo I don't felt than quick acceleration to me and the responsive, also the back seat head rest when you using it I mean when you left up three of them will block the rear glass all the way through and you can't see anything from the rear mirror

[@soothsayer1900]

Aussie reviewers pushing Chinese cars. What’s new in that

[@Greg-k4j]

Subaru are always in the grey zone of nearly getting it right. The transmission & rear middle seatbelt arrangement rule it out for me..fuel economy is terrible…

[@radissimo1]

Subaru Out-back-dated

[@MrThuggery]

Subaru is getting old in looks and needs a serious revamp. I own STI Levorg and had the model before.

[@craigelliott5028]

Awesome 🤩 car…. I just wish it had an option or a model without the cvt and 10% firmer/sporter suspension

[@jonathanfgh1]

The problem with the car as I see it is that the dealers will not sell you one unless you show your Seniors Card first ..... Maybe in a few years time then .....😂

[@jonathanfgh1]

@gogeorgia707 I will take your word for it, as I have never seen anyone driving one under 55 .....

[@sjs1555]

What a sheltered, child-like view of the world you have. Run along now. You may get lucky and catch your Dad to ask him for gas money for that Civic he bought you.

[@gaming_uwu4850]

Mate you need to buy a Tesla, sounds like your group. Not a real car but you will probably enjoy the bigger screen and lack of driving initiative.

[@K03sport]

no, that's the Forester....no, wait, that's the other membership card. 🤔

[@frankb616]

Yeah, in a few years time, when you grow up. 😂

[@peterburdett8131]

Such a boring car. The ADAS features are overpowering requiring turning systems off every drive