Subaru has a deliberate approach to expanding its turbocharged engine lineup that has an XT badge. One recent instance is the Forester in Japan which received a 1.8-liter turbocharged mill after years of running on a naturally-aspirated power unit.
Subaru Outback
Now, Subaru is looking to introduce the 2.4-liter turbocharged boxer-4 engine in the Outback to other markets including Australia. The said power unit was exclusive in North America, while most markets utilize a 2.5-liter naturally-aspirated engine that makes 185 horsepower and 245 Nm of torque.
The performance output figures of the Australia-bound turbo engine are still unclear. But looking at the U.S.-spec Outback, we could expect the XT-badged power unit to produce 261 horsepower and 376 Nm of torque. Regardless, the new power unit will expand the range of the Japanese wagon by providing a more performance-oriented driving experience.
As for the transmission, the Subaru Outback XT is still expected to pair the engine with a Lineartronic continuously variable transmission (CVT). A Subaru Symmetrical all-wheel-drive (AWD) will be used to send power from the engine to all four wheels for better traction, resulting in safer drives, especially on slippery roads.
The Australian-spec Outback will carry the XT badge
Reports also suggest that the said turbocharged engine could be expanded in the Subaru BRZ. Currently, the BRZ is powered by a 2.4-liter naturally-aspirated engine good for 234 horsepower and 250 Nm of torque. If it comes to pass, the turbo mill will further solidify the model’s sports car characteristics.
Subaru Australia Managing Director Blair Read said that the Outback XT is set to begin production in the fourth quarter of this year as a 2023 model. Meanwhile, Subaru Philippines has yet to put the word out regarding the possibility of debuting a turbocharged Outback. The Philippines is one of the markets for the naturally-aspirated version, where it is currently offered at Php 2,380,000.
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