What does XT mean on Subaru?
The XT designation on Subaru badges signals a turbocharged, higher-performance variant within a model line. These badges appeared on several models in the mid-2000s to early-2010s, indicating a turbocharged boxer engine and sportier characteristics, though exact specs varied by model and year.
Context and meaning in Subaru’s lineup
Across Subaru’s history, XT has been used to mark turbocharged versions of otherwise naturally aspirated cars. The badge conveyed more power, often paired with an upgraded suspension and all-wheel drive. In later years, Subaru shifted away from the XT label on many markets, opting to differentiate turbo models through engine code designations and trim naming rather than a single suffix.
Subaru models that carried the XT badge
Below is a look at models that wore the XT badge, with the typical purpose of the designation and notes on how the versions differed from their non-XT siblings.
- Outback 2.5XT — turbocharged version of the Outback, adding a turbo engine and sportier tuning compared with the base model.
- Legacy XT — turbocharged variant of the Legacy sedan, offering higher performance and upgraded components.
- Impreza 2.5XT — turbocharged Impreza variant available prior to the more widely known WRX/STI lineup, with enhanced power and all-wheel drive handling.
- Forester 2.0XT — turbocharged Forester with a higher-output engine and sportier dynamics, later joined by other turbo trims in some markets.
Note: Exact engines, horsepower, and availability varied by market and model year, so specifics can differ depending on where and when a vehicle was sold. For buyers of used cars, always check the engine code and window sticker to confirm whether a particular XT model matches the turbo configuration described above.
Current status and how it’s labeled today
Today, Subaru’s U.S. lineup generally does not carry the XT suffix on new models. Turbocharged variants are still offered in some models, but the XT badge has largely become a historical branding element rather than a current, universal designation. When shopping newer Subarus, look for engine options such as turbocharged 2.4L or related performance-oriented trims, rather than relying on an XT badge.
How to identify an XT-equipped model when shopping
Check the badge on the rear of the vehicle, review the window sticker or VIN data for the engine code (for example, turbocharged flat-four), and verify horsepower figures. If you’re buying used, ask the seller for the exact engine specification and confirm that the model is indeed the turbocharged XT variant rather than a later non-XT turbo option or a different turbo designation.
Summary
XT on Subaru is a historical badge that signified turbocharged, higher-performance variants within several model lines, most prominently in the mid-2000s to early-2010s. While the XT label has faded in newer models, the concept remains: turbocharged engines delivered more power and sportier handling than their naturally aspirated counterparts. When evaluating a used Subaru, always verify the engine configuration and trim to understand the true performance level you’re getting.
Is the Subaru XT a turbo?
The XT was available with both manual and automatic transmissions. 85-87 XT Turbos were available as either front-wheel drive or part-time four-wheel drive, while the 85-87 XT non turbo cars were only available as front-wheel-drive.
What does the XT mean on Subaru?
On a Subaru, "XT" signifies a turbocharged Boxer engine and typically indicates a model with more performance. The "X" often refers to the all-wheel-drive system, and the "T" stands for "turbocharged," making it a more powerful option than standard models.
- Performance: XT models have significantly more horsepower and torque compared to their non-turbo counterparts, providing quicker acceleration. For example, the 2025 Outback XT has 260 horsepower compared to 190 hp in the standard model.
- Capabilities: This extra power also increases towing capacity and helps with situations like driving in snow.
- Engine: The turbocharged engine is a 2.4L Boxer four-cylinder in recent models.
- Distinguishing feature: While not always immediately obvious from the outside, a key indicator is that XT models have two exhaust pipes instead of one.
- Trim levels: You will often see "XT" as part of a trim name, such as "Outback Limited XT" or "Outback Onyx Edition XT".
What does XT stand for in cars?
The number that follows CT indicates the relative size and position in the lineup, the higher the number, the larger and typically more luxurious the vehicle. XT: This stands for Crossover Touring. It's used for their SUV models, like the XT4, XT5, and XT6.
What is the difference between XT and non XT Subaru?
On the other hand, the XT trims sport a 2.4-liter turbocharged engine that produces 260 hp and 277 lb-ft of torque and is paired with a CVT. The added power is evident in their maximum towing capacity of 3,500 lbs, significantly higher than the 2,700-pound capacity of non-XT trims.
