2023 Subaru Outback XT turbo priced for Australia, due this year

The 2023 Subaru Outback is set to gain a much-anticipated turbocharged engine before the end of this year, available in two model grades priced from $52,190 plus on-road costs.

Due in Subaru showrooms "before Christmas", two new XT variants introduce a 2.4-litre turbocharged four-cylinder 'boxer' engine to the Outback line, developing 183kW and 350Nm, with a CVT automatic and all-wheel drive.

That's a healthy increase over the 2.5-litre non-turbo model's 138kW and 245Nm outputs – but is down 10kW/25Nm on US XT models – and boosts the maximum braked towing capacity rating from 2000kg to 2400kg.

Subaru says the turbo engine – which is also used in the WRX, in a higher state of tune – cuts the 0-100km/h acceleration time by "approximately 22 per cent" – though it doesn't provide a claim.

The introduction of the Outback XT coincides with a 2023 update for the rest of the Outback range – however Australia will miss out on the facelifted exterior design revealed for the US market.

Prices have also risen across the non-turbo range by $1200 to account for the new features – compounding a $800 price increase earlier this year, and a $700 rise late last year.

Available on higher-end Sport and Touring model grades – for a $5000 premium over the non-turbo engine – turbocharged XT models can be differentiated by dual exhaust tips, an XT badge, and LED fog lights (with six LEDs).

Turbo versions also receive retuned suspension, a revised rear differential gear ratio, and a "copper-free material" for the brake pads which is claimed to "increase towing capacity, and improve performance of the parking brake".

The Outback XT quotes a combined fuel consumption claim of 9.0 litres per 100km – compared to 7.3L/100km for the non-turbo model – and requires 95-octane premium fuel, rather than 91-octane regular unleaded.

Standard features largely mirror non-turbo versions, with highlights including an 11.6-inch central touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (new), 18-inch wheels, and a suite of advanced safety aids.

Updates to the rest of the range include wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (rather than wired), revised infotainment software, a new USB-C port up front, and tweaked wheel designs.

The 2023 Subaru Outback XT is available to pre-order now on Subaru's website, ahead of first deliveries due before the end of this year – a few months earlier than anticipated.

Note: All prices above exclude on-road costs.