Subaru Outback XT Touring: Aussie Adventure Review

Hey guys! Ever wondered if the Subaru Outback XT Touring lives up to the hype? Well, buckle up, because we're diving deep into an Aussie review of this adventurous wagon. We'll explore everything from its performance and features to its practicality and overall value. Get ready for a comprehensive look at what makes the Outback XT Touring a popular choice for those seeking a blend of capability, comfort, and a touch of luxury, all wrapped up in a package ready to tackle the diverse terrains Australia throws your way.

Unveiling the Subaru Outback XT Touring: First Impressions

First impressions matter, right? When you first lay eyes on the Subaru Outback XT Touring, you're greeted with a vehicle that exudes a sense of robust elegance. It's not just a pretty face; it's a vehicle built for action. The exterior design is subtly updated, with a more aggressive front fascia that hints at the power lurking beneath the hood. The Touring trim level boasts premium features like stylish alloy wheels, LED headlights, and a panoramic sunroof, giving it a sophisticated edge that separates it from its more rugged siblings. The Outback XT Touring stands out from the crowd without being overly flashy. It's a vehicle that says, "I'm ready for anything," whether it's a weekend getaway to the Blue Mountains or a daily commute through the city. The Outback XT Touring doesn't just look the part; it feels substantial, like it's built to last. The build quality is immediately apparent, with tight panel gaps and a general sense of solidity. Step inside, and you're welcomed by a well-appointed cabin that prioritizes both comfort and functionality. Leather-trimmed seats, a large touchscreen infotainment system, and a host of advanced driver-assistance technologies create an interior that's both inviting and technologically advanced. The Subaru Outback XT Touring is a vehicle that makes a statement, and that statement is, "Let's go on an adventure!" It's a car that inspires confidence and a sense of excitement. It's more than just a means of transport; it's a companion for your journey, ready to tackle any road, any weather, and any adventure you throw its way. From the moment you see it, to the moment you get behind the wheel, the Subaru Outback XT Touring leaves a lasting positive impression. This initial feel is critical, setting the tone for what promises to be a great driving experience, ready for any challenges the Aussie landscape might throw your way.

Power and Performance: What's Under the Hood?

Alright, let's get down to the good stuff: what makes the Subaru Outback XT Touring move? Under the hood, you'll find a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder Boxer engine. This engine is a powerhouse, producing a healthy dose of horsepower and torque. This translates to brisk acceleration and effortless overtaking, making highway driving a breeze. The XT Touring isn't just about straight-line speed; it's also designed to handle the rough stuff. Subaru's legendary symmetrical all-wheel-drive system provides exceptional grip and stability, allowing you to confidently navigate challenging terrain, from gravel roads to muddy tracks. The Outback XT Touring also features a raised ride height, providing extra ground clearance and further enhancing its off-road capabilities. This combination of power, all-wheel-drive, and ground clearance makes the XT Touring a versatile vehicle, equally at home on the open road and off the beaten path. The engine is paired with a smooth and responsive continuously variable transmission (CVT), which helps maximize fuel efficiency while still delivering a satisfying driving experience. While some might prefer a traditional automatic transmission, the CVT in the Outback XT Touring is well-tuned, and it does a good job of simulating the feel of a conventional gearbox. The engine's responsiveness, coupled with the all-wheel-drive system's grip, gives you a feeling of control and confidence, no matter the driving conditions. Whether you're navigating city streets or exploring the outback, the Subaru Outback XT Touring's power and performance will impress you. It's a vehicle that's ready for any adventure, and it will leave you with a smile on your face.

Interior Comfort and Technology: A Home Away From Home

Let's step inside, shall we? The Subaru Outback XT Touring's interior is where comfort and technology converge to create a truly inviting space. The cabin is spacious, with plenty of room for both front and rear passengers. The seats are supportive and comfortable, even on long journeys, and the leather trim adds a touch of luxury. The Outback XT Touring is designed with families in mind, and the rear seats offer ample legroom and headroom, making it a comfortable ride for everyone. The interior design is modern and functional, with a focus on user-friendliness. The dashboard features a large touchscreen infotainment system that controls everything from navigation and audio to climate control settings. The system is intuitive and easy to use, with crisp graphics and responsive touch controls. The Outback XT Touring also comes equipped with a host of advanced driver-assistance technologies, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring. These features enhance safety and make driving a more relaxed and enjoyable experience. The cabin is well-insulated, minimizing road and wind noise. This creates a quiet and serene environment, allowing you to enjoy the premium sound system without distractions. The quality of the materials is high, and the fit and finish are excellent, reflecting Subaru's commitment to quality and attention to detail. The Outback XT Touring isn't just about comfort; it's also practical. The cargo area is spacious, with plenty of room for luggage, groceries, or gear for your next adventure. The rear seats can be folded down to create even more cargo space, making the Outback XT Touring a versatile vehicle that can handle anything you throw its way. The interior of the Subaru Outback XT Touring is more than just a place to sit; it's a comfortable, technologically advanced, and practical sanctuary. It's a space where you can relax, unwind, and enjoy the ride, no matter where your journey takes you.

Driving Experience: On the Road and Off the Beaten Path

So, what's it like to actually drive the Subaru Outback XT Touring? The driving experience is a blend of comfort, capability, and performance. On the road, the Outback XT Touring is refined and composed. The suspension does a great job of absorbing bumps and imperfections, providing a smooth and comfortable ride. The steering is light and precise, making the Outback XT Touring easy to maneuver in both city and highway driving. The turbocharged engine provides plenty of power for overtaking and merging onto highways, and the all-wheel-drive system ensures that you have plenty of grip and stability in all weather conditions. But the Outback XT Touring is more than just a comfortable on-road cruiser. It's also designed to tackle the rough stuff. With its raised ride height, all-wheel-drive system, and X-Mode off-road settings, the Outback XT Touring can handle a variety of off-road conditions. Whether you're tackling a gravel road, navigating a muddy track, or exploring a sandy beach, the Outback XT Touring will provide you with the confidence and capability you need. The X-Mode system optimizes the vehicle's performance for off-road driving, adjusting the engine, transmission, and all-wheel-drive system to maximize traction and control. The Outback XT Touring also features a host of driver-assistance technologies that enhance safety and make driving easier. Adaptive cruise control helps you maintain a safe distance from the car in front, while lane-keeping assist helps you stay in your lane. The Outback XT Touring also has blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, which alert you to potential hazards. The driving experience in the Subaru Outback XT Touring is one of confidence and control. Whether you're cruising on the highway or exploring the outback, you'll feel safe, secure, and in command of the road.

Fuel Economy and Running Costs: Keeping it Affordable

Okay, let's talk about the practicalities of owning the Subaru Outback XT Touring, specifically fuel economy and running costs. The Outback XT Touring is equipped with a turbocharged engine, which, while offering impressive performance, does impact fuel consumption. However, the Outback XT Touring still manages to achieve reasonable fuel economy figures, especially considering its size and capabilities. Real-world fuel consumption will vary depending on driving conditions and driving style, but you can expect to get a combined fuel consumption figure that's competitive within its class. Subaru has made strides in improving fuel efficiency, and the Outback XT Touring benefits from these advancements. Beyond fuel consumption, there are other running costs to consider, such as servicing, insurance, and tires. Subaru vehicles are generally known for their reliability, which can translate to lower maintenance costs over the long term. Regular servicing is essential to keep your Outback XT Touring running smoothly, and Subaru offers a comprehensive service schedule to ensure that your vehicle is properly maintained. Insurance costs will vary depending on your location, driving history, and other factors, but the Outback XT Touring is generally considered to be reasonably priced to insure. Tires are another running cost to consider, and the Outback XT Touring's tire size and type will influence the price. Overall, the running costs of the Subaru Outback XT Touring are competitive within its class. While the turbocharged engine does affect fuel economy, the vehicle's reliability, reasonable insurance costs, and well-priced servicing make it an affordable option for many buyers. It's important to factor in all of these costs when considering whether the Outback XT Touring is the right vehicle for you, but rest assured that it's designed to be a practical and reliable companion on your adventures, and your wallet will thank you.

Safety Features: Protecting You and Your Passengers

Safety is paramount, right? The Subaru Outback XT Touring is packed with safety features designed to protect you and your passengers. Subaru has a strong reputation for safety, and the Outback XT Touring continues this tradition. It is equipped with a comprehensive suite of advanced driver-assistance technologies, including Subaru's EyeSight Driver Assist System. This system includes features like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, lane-keeping assist, and pre-collision braking. Adaptive cruise control helps you maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front, while lane departure warning and lane-keeping assist help you stay in your lane. Pre-collision braking can automatically apply the brakes if it detects an imminent collision. The Outback XT Touring also comes with blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane change assist, which alert you to potential hazards when changing lanes or reversing. These features provide an extra layer of protection and help to prevent accidents. The Outback XT Touring is built on Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive platform, which enhances stability and control in all weather conditions. The vehicle's structure is designed to absorb impact energy in the event of a collision, and it is equipped with a full complement of airbags, including front, side, curtain, and driver's knee airbags. The Outback XT Touring has consistently earned top safety ratings from independent testing agencies, demonstrating its commitment to safety. You can rest assured that you and your passengers are well-protected when driving the Outback XT Touring. The safety features of the Subaru Outback XT Touring are comprehensive and effective, providing peace of mind and helping to make every journey a safe one. It's a vehicle that prioritizes your safety, allowing you to focus on enjoying the driving experience.

Pros and Cons: Weighing Up the Outback XT Touring

Let's get down to the nitty-gritty: the pros and cons of the Subaru Outback XT Touring. On the plus side, the Outback XT Touring offers a lot to love. The turbocharged engine provides plenty of power and performance, making it fun to drive. The symmetrical all-wheel-drive system provides excellent grip and stability, making it capable in all weather conditions. The interior is spacious, comfortable, and well-appointed, with plenty of room for both passengers and cargo. The Outback XT Touring is packed with advanced driver-assistance technologies, enhancing safety and making driving easier. It also boasts a high level of standard equipment, offering great value for money. However, there are a few potential downsides to consider. The fuel economy, while reasonable, is not as good as some of its competitors. The infotainment system, while functional, might not be as user-friendly as some other systems on the market. Some drivers may find the continuously variable transmission (CVT) to be less engaging than a traditional automatic transmission. Despite these potential drawbacks, the pros of the Subaru Outback XT Touring far outweigh the cons. It's a versatile and capable vehicle that's perfect for both daily driving and weekend adventures. It offers a blend of performance, comfort, safety, and practicality that's hard to beat. The Outback XT Touring is a well-rounded vehicle that will appeal to a wide range of buyers. Ultimately, the best way to determine whether the Outback XT Touring is right for you is to take it for a test drive and experience it for yourself. But based on our assessment, the Outback XT Touring is a fantastic choice for anyone looking for a capable and comfortable wagon.

Conclusion: Is the Subaru Outback XT Touring the Right Car for You?

So, after all that, is the Subaru Outback XT Touring the right car for you? Well, it depends on what you're looking for! If you need a versatile wagon that can handle both the daily commute and weekend adventures, the answer is a resounding yes! The Outback XT Touring offers a compelling blend of performance, comfort, safety, and practicality. It's a vehicle that's well-suited for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone who appreciates a capable and well-equipped vehicle. If you value a powerful engine, all-wheel-drive capability, a spacious and comfortable interior, and a host of advanced safety features, the Outback XT Touring is definitely worth considering. It's a vehicle that will provide you with years of reliable service and countless adventures. The Subaru Outback XT Touring is more than just a car; it's a lifestyle. It's a vehicle that encourages you to explore, to discover, and to embrace the open road. It's a vehicle that will take you places you never thought possible, and it will do so in comfort and style. If you're looking for a vehicle that can do it all, the Subaru Outback XT Touring is an excellent choice. It's a testament to Subaru's commitment to quality, safety, and innovation. The Subaru Outback XT Touring is more than just a car; it's a trusty companion, ready to go on any adventure you set. So, what are you waiting for? Get out there and explore! You might just find that the Subaru Outback XT Touring is the perfect vehicle for you.