How fast is a Subaru Outback 0 to 60?

In short, the Outback’s 0–60 mph time depends on powertrain: base models with a 2.5-liter engine generally clock around 8–9 seconds, while the turbocharged 2.4-liter XT versions dip into the roughly 6–6.5-second range. Real-world results vary with conditions and trim.

This article dives into the factors behind those numbers, how different model years and trims influence acceleration, and what buyers can expect in everyday driving.

Typical 0–60 figures by powertrain

Here is a quick breakdown of the two main configurations in recent Outbacks and what independent testing has shown in typical conditions.

• 2.5-liter naturally aspirated boxer engine with CVT: approximately 8.0–9.0 seconds 0–60 mph; all-wheel drive and launch behavior influence the exact time.


• 2.4-liter turbocharged boxer engine with CVT (XT): approximately 6.0–6.5 seconds 0–60 mph; higher horsepower and torque yield stronger launch performance.

Times vary by year, tire choice, ambient conditions, cargo, and whether the drivetrain is in Snow/Grip or Sport mode. The turbo variant generally offers a significant advantage for quick starts.

Model-year and trim considerations

Subaru has offered refinements over the years that affect acceleration, including changes to turbo tuning, gearing, and standard equipment. In recent years, the turbo 2.4L engine has been reserved for higher trims such as the XT and Wilderness, contributing to quicker 0–60 results compared with the base 2.5L model.

What to expect in everyday driving

In daily use, most drivers may not notice the full 0–60 gap between the base and turbo models, but highway merging and overtaking can benefit noticeably from the turbo’s extra power. Real-world performance will also depend on payload, fuel quality, and tire traction.

Summary

The Subaru Outback's acceleration varies by engine and trim: the base 2.5-liter model typically runs about 8–9 seconds to 60 mph, while the 2.4-liter turbo in XT/Wilderness trims can reach 60 mph in roughly 6.0–6.5 seconds. Expect variation across model years and testing conditions.

Is the Subaru 2.4 Turbo a good engine?

Yes, the Subaru 2.4L turbo engine is generally considered a good engine, offering significantly more power than the naturally aspirated versions while being built to be reliable and overbuilt. It provides better acceleration, towing capacity, and performance at high altitudes, but it is also more complex than a non-turbo engine and has lower fuel economy. Proper maintenance, such as more frequent oil changes, can help ensure long-term reliability.
 
Advantages of the 2.4L turbo engine

• More power and torque: It provides a significant increase in torque, making it feel much more responsive than the 2.5L non-turbo engine. This is especially beneficial for passing and merging. 
• Stronger performance: The engine is more capable in situations that require more power, like climbing hills or towing. 
• Built for reliability: It's considered an overbuilt engine, designed to be more reliable than older Subaru turbo engines, addressing some of the issues seen in previous generations. 
• Can use regular fuel: The engine is designed to run on 87 octane regular gasoline. 

Potential considerations for the 2.4L turbo engine

• Fuel economy: The turbo engine generally gets slightly lower fuel economy compared to the 2.5L non-turbo. 
• Complexity: Turbocharged engines are more complex than naturally aspirated ones, which can mean more potential maintenance points, such as oil supply bolts and gasket leaks. 
• Maintenance: To maximize longevity, frequent oil changes (every 3,750 to 5,000 miles) are recommended to prevent potential oil-related issues. 

Verdict
The Subaru 2.4L turbo is a good engine if you prioritize power and performance. It's a reliable and capable engine, especially when you perform diligent maintenance. If your priority is the lowest possible maintenance complexity and fuel cost, the 2.5L naturally aspirated engine might be a better fit.

Which year to avoid a Subaru Outback?

Years to avoid for the Subaru Outback include 2010–2014, which had widespread CVT, oil consumption, and oil leak issues, and 2018, which had recalls and reliability concerns. Additionally, some sources recommend avoiding the 2005–2007 models due to head gasket problems and the 2020 model, which had electrical and windshield issues. 
Years to avoid

• 2010–2014: These models are frequently cited for significant transmission issues (CVT), oil consumption, and general reliability problems. The 2010 model specifically had issues with the torque converter locking up. 
• 2018: This year saw recalls and owner complaints related to oil consumption, exhaust components, and electrical issues. 
• 2005–2007: These models are known for head gasket failures, which can cause coolant and oil leaks. 
• 2020: This model year is associated with a high number of electrical problems, including dead batteries and stalling, as well as issues with the windshield cracking from small chips. 

Other potential problem years

• 2013: Frequently mentioned for oil consumption issues.
• 2015: Some reports list it with electrical and engine problems.
• 2017: Reliability issues were noted. 

Which Subaru Outback has the fastest engine?

Subaru made the Wilderness trim the fastest trim level with a lazing 0-60 mph time of 5.7 seconds thanks to its turbocharged engine!

How fast does a Subaru Outback go from 0 to 60?

A Subaru Outback's 0-60 mph time varies by engine: the base 2.5-liter engine takes about 8.5-8.8 seconds, while the turbocharged 2.4-liter engine in XT and Wilderness models is significantly faster, achieving around 5.8-6.3 seconds. For example, the 2025 Wilderness trim has been clocked at 5.8 seconds, while a 2025 Touring XT achieved 6.3 seconds.
 
Base 2.5-liter engine

• 0-60 mph: Approximately 8.5–8.8 seconds 
• Performance: Sufficient for daily driving but can feel slow when loaded or at high altitudes 

Turbocharged 2.4-liter engine 

• 0-60 mph: Approximately 5.8–6.3 seconds 
• Performance: Quicker and more responsive, ideal for highway driving and faster acceleration 
• Examples:
  • 2025 Wilderness: 5.8 seconds 
  • 2025 Touring XT: 6.3 seconds 
  • 2024 Limited XT: 6.0 seconds 
  • 2023 Outback XT: 5.8 seconds 

0:162025 Subaru Outback Touring XT 0-60 TESTYouTube703Speed · 1y 0:360-60 In The 2025 Subaru Outback TurboYouTubeBeyond The Test Drive · 8mo 0:492024 Subaru Outback Wilderness 0-60YouTubeDM Car Reviews · 2w 0:122023 Subaru Outback Touring XT 0-60 MPH #shortsYouTube703Speed · 2y 0:120-60 in Subaru OutbackYouTubeDietrich's Car Channel · 9mo (function(){
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