Review of 2023 Subaru Outback tests new turbo against standard model

Wind kind of SUV do you need? Tried and tested or are you basing something with some firepower? Subaru turned to the WRX engine for inject some fun into its Outback SUV.

The 2023 Subaru Outback Sport.

Injectables are all the rage at the moment.

Young and old are tapping into the fountain of youth with a range of cosmetic alternatives.

Subaru has undertaken a similar process with the Outback, injecting some sporty genes into the family-friendly SUV.

A turbocharged engine has been added to the line-up in 2023 to deliver some extra punch for those with lead-lined right feet.

The new turbocharged options start from about $57,500 in traffic, while the base model naturally aspirated variant is $47,600.

Our family sampled both engine options to find the best fit.

The 2023 Subaru Outback in Sport specification.

WHAT WERE YOUR FIRST IMPRESSIONS?

KEL: You can certainly tell the difference in power. Off the line the turbo model was responsive and brisk.

GRANT: Under the bonnet is a detuned version of the same engine found in the WRX. One criticism of Outbacks in the past has been the lack of grunt, this is the answer.

KEL: I’ve always liked the Outback. Impressive space and ease of daily use have always the hallmarks of Subaru’s SUVs, and this one was no different.

GRANT: The Outback is particularly good on the commonsense front. Savvy owners appreciate the reliable history and family dexterity.

KEL: Cabin features are a combination of modern and historic, with the vertical iPad-looking touchscreen grabbing your attention.

GRANT: Our tests were in the range-topping non-turbo Touring model and the mid-range Sport XT. Both models require you to part with more than $55,000 once on-roads are settled (the top-notch turbo Touring variant is $61,565).

KEL: That is getting expensive, but there seems to be very few bargains post pandemic.

GRANT: Other big sellers in the segment are the Kia Sorento and Mazda CX-9, as well as genuine off-roaders such as the Isuzu MU-X and Toyota Prado. You’re looking at similar money across all those models, in most cases more for the rivals with similar features.

Cabin features of the 2023 Subaru Outback AWD Sport.

WHAT DID YOU LOVE?

KEL: Minimisation has become the “in thing” for many manufacturers, but I like how Subaru has maintained easy access to the aircon controls, along with the seat heaters and ventilators, without hiding it all within the main screen.

GRANT: Touring models even have a single CD player in the console. The kids will appreciate that retro feature. USB-A and C connections are available upfront (also two USB-As in the back), and other basic equipment includes water repellent trim in Sport models (nappa leather in Touring), heated rear outboard seats to match those in the front and a power tailgate with hands free function.

KEL: Loading groceries into the back was easy and we didn’t get close to filling the boot with about 10 bags.

GRANT: The Outback is more wagon than SUV, so while it has an elevated ride height it’s not excessive. There are also cool levers in the boot that drop the back seats 60-40.

Boot space in the Subaru Outback Sport XT.

WHAT DID YOU LOATHE?

KEL: There were early frustrations with the infotainment system. It felt like an age to connect the phone.

GRANT: The initial tethering was slow. Throughout our test we also had regular connection issues when Apple CarPlay wouldn’t work even when plugged in via the cord (wireless is available).

KEL: Overall cabin space is excellent, even for three adults across the rear seat, but I found the console design frustrating. There wasn’t enough space for my purse, phone, keys and drinks.

GRANT: You’ve been spoiled by electric vehicles which don’t require the same hardware space as combustion engine cars. The Outback does miss out on some of the modern niceties, such as wireless phone charging, all-digital driver instruments or a head-up display.

KEL: When we had to refuel I noticed the turbo needed premium unleaded as opposed to 91 in the other variant.

GRANT: The turbos are thirstier too. On our test it was sipping more than 10 litres for every 100km, as opposed to less than eight in the non-turbo. The XTs also have slightly shorter service intervals, annual or 12,500km compared to 15,000km.

The Subaru Outback is available with turbo or naturally aspirated engines.

HOW WAS THE DRIVE?

KEL: Entering traffic quickly and overtaking was remarkably more confident in the turbo model.

GRANT: Compared to the WRX the turbocharged engine produces 19 less kilowatts but the same amount of torque. That peak torque is available low in the rev range so it’s more responsive to throttle shunts.

KEL: Once up and running I didn’t find things much difference.

GRANT: Both engines are partnered to a continuously variable transmission, which means acceleration can be laboured before picking up speed. The turbo is particularly good above 2000rpm, whereas the naturally aspirated model sang loud as it worked to catch up to right foot inputs.

KEL: Apart from the indicator needing to be turned off manually a lot of the time, I enjoyed the drive. Both models cruised nicely in hilly areas and on the highway.

GRANT: Those who want to tow small boats, jet skis or trailers would also appreciate the 2000kg capacity – that is bolstered to 2400kg with turbo variants. It’s also pretty capable on gravel and rutted roads, while a full-size spare is another boon.

The turbocharged Subaru Outback variants offer some much-needed extra shove.

WOULD YOU BUY ONE?

KEL: The non-turbo Touring model had some great equipment, but to get the same gear with the turbo engine at more than $60k would take some extra convincing given the added running costs. Awesome space and ease of use, it is an SUV that does a lot of things well without much excitement.

GRANT: There is a lot to like about a family-sized offering that ticks so many boxes. Practical, spacious and predictable, the turbo model would be my choice to avoid the flustered nature when accelerating hard in the naturally aspirated models. Savvy shoppers would compare with diesel rivals, such as the Kia Sorento. Subaru currently has strong supply, with naturally aspirated Outbacks looking at delivery within one month, but XT buyers may experience a wait time between 3-4 months.