Does the Outback XT have the same engine as the WRX?
Both the Outback XT and the WRX in recent generations use a turbocharged 2.4-liter flat-four engine family, but they are not identical pieces of hardware. The engines share a core design and displacement, yet Subaru tunes and components differ enough to affect power, torque, and how they feel on the road.
Engine family and background
Starting with the 2020 model year, Subaru rolled out a 2.4-liter turbocharged horizontally opposed (boxer) engine across several models, including the Outback XT and the WRX. The WRX, long associated with performance-oriented tuning, shifted to the same displacement with a focus on higher peak output, while the Outback XT balanced sportier performance with everyday drivability and efficiency. In other words, they share the same engine family, but the tuning and hardware are not identical.
Is it the exact same engine across both models?
Not precisely. The two vehicles use the same family of 2.4-liter turbocharged flat-four engines, but Subaru calibrates and packages them differently for each model. Variations can include turbocharger sizing and tuning, intercooling, intake/exhaust paths, and engine control software, which drive distinct along-the-clock performance profiles and drive experiences.
Performance numbers and tuning
Here are the general, model-year-aligned figures you’ll typically see for the current generation engines. Note that exact numbers can vary by year and octane rating, and trims may affect final outputs.
- Outback XT: approximately 260 horsepower and around 277 lb-ft of torque, tuned for strong low- to mid-range grunt and everyday usability.
- WRX (2.4-liter version in the same generation): roughly 271 horsepower and about 258 lb-ft of torque, tuned for higher peak horsepower and a sportier rpm range.
In practice, this means the Outback XT tends to feel more torquey at lower to mid speeds, while the WRX aims to deliver more top-end horsepower for spirited driving. The two engines share core architecture but are calibrated to fit the targets of their respective vehicles and drivetrains.
Other mechanical differences
Beyond the engine itself, several hardware and drivetrain choices separate the Outback XT from the WRX:
- Transmission pairing: Outback XT typically leans toward Subaru’s continuously variable transmission (CVT) with all-wheel drive, while the WRX offers a 6-speed manual transmission as an option alongside a CVT in some trims.
- Turbo and intercooler setup: The turbocharger, intercooling, and intake routing are tuned differently to optimize for the vehicle’s intended use—comfort and efficiency for the Outback versus peak performance for the WRX.
- Exhaust and ECU calibration: The exhaust tuning and engine control maps differ to shape throttle feel, noise, and output curves appropriate to each model’s character.
These differences mean that even with a shared 2.4-liter core, the two cars deliver notably different driving experiences tailored to their markets: rugged family wagon versus dedicated performance sedan/hatch.
Summary
In their current generation, the Outback XT and WRX are powered by the same 2.4-liter turbocharged flat-four engine family, but they are not identical engines. They share core architecture and displacement, yet differ in turbo tuning, intercooling, exhaust, and engine management, which yields distinct power delivery and driving personalities. For buyers choosing between them, the decision often comes down to whether you want stronger everyday torque and comfort (Outback XT) or higher peak horsepower and sportier character (WRX).
Conclusion
Overall, Subaru engineered a shared powerplant strategy across models, leveraging the 2.4-liter turbo boxer for both the Outback XT and the WRX. The result is a family of engines with similar roots but refined variations to match each model’s purpose. If you’re evaluating one versus the other, expect similar underlying hardware but different tuning and drivetrain combinations that shape how each vehicle feels on the road.
Do all subarus use the same engine?
All Subaru vehicles with internal combustion engines are equipped with the SUBARU BOXER engine. The only Subaru vehicle that does not feature the boxer engine is the Solterra EV, our first all-electric offering.
Do the WRX and Outback XT have the same engine?
The Ascent, Outback XT Wilderness, Legacy XT and the WRX all use the same engine the FA24. It's a solid engine for sure.
Does the Forester XT have a WRX engine?
The XT model uses the same Mitsubishi Motors TD04 turbocharger used in the Subaru Impreza WRX. All Forester 2.5 L engines are of the interference engine type. The flat engine can be mounted lower in the car and gives the Forester a lower center of gravity than other 4x4s or soft roaders.
What engine does the Outback XT have?
2.4L SUBARU BOXER Turbocharged Four-Cylinder Engine
Like the standard 2.5L engine, it comes equipped with a Lineartronic CVT for seamless acceleration and response. This engine is standard on the Onyx Edition XT, Wilderness, Limited XT, and Touring XT.
