What is the 2024 Subaru Outback engine 2.4 L 4-cylinder?
In brief, the 2024 Outback’s 2.4-liter engine is a turbocharged flat-four that delivers about 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque, paired with Subaru’s Lineartronic continuously variable transmission and all-wheel drive. It represents the performance option over the base 2.5-liter engine.
This article explains what that engine is, how it works, and what it means for acceleration, towing, efficiency, and everyday use in the 2024 Outback.
Engine design and specifications
Before exploring performance and efficiency, here are the core design features of the 2.4 L turbocharged powerplant in the 2024 Outback.
- Displacement: 2.4 liters
- Layout: horizontally opposed four-cylinder (boxer) engine
- Turbocharging: single twin-scroll turbocharger with intercooler
- Fuel delivery: direct injection
- Power output: about 260 horsepower
- Torque output: about 277 lb-ft of torque
- Transmission: Subaru Lineartronic CVT with an eight-speed manual-shift mode
- Drive system: standard all-wheel drive
The turbo engine is designed to deliver strong low- and mid-range torque for confident everyday driving, while the CVT helps optimize efficiency across a wide range of speeds. For peak performance, Subaru recommends premium gasoline to fully exploit the engine’s output potential.
Performance and driving characteristics
Understanding how the 2.4 L turbo affects acceleration, towing, and overall drive requires a look at its real-world behavior and capabilities.
- Estimated 0–60 mph time: typically in the mid-to-lower six-second range, depending on trim and conditions
- All-wheel drive is standard, with selectable driving modes to optimize traction and throttle response
- Towing capacity: up to about 3,500 pounds, making it capable for light towing and outdoor gear
- Turbo boost provides strong mid-range torque for passing and merging
- Chassis and suspension tuned to balance on-road comfort with off-road capability
In daily use, the engine responds promptly and remains quiet at highway speeds when under light loads, while expressing more audible turbo torque under heavier acceleration. The combination of torque and AWD helps the Outback feel notably more capable than its non-turbo siblings, especially when hauling cargo or negotiating hills.
Efficiency and fuel considerations
Fuel economy and octane requirements influence ownership cost and long-term use. Here are the key points shoppers typically consider for the 2.4 L turbo variant.
- Fuel type: premium gasoline is recommended for maximum output and efficiency
- EPA estimates: turbo models generally show lower city mpg and higher highway mpg compared with the base engine, with typical combined figures in the mid- to upper-20s mpg range depending on driving style
- Regular gasoline: can be used in a pinch, but may reduce peak performance and power output
- Maintenance notes: routine maintenance intervals for the turbocharged engine align with Subaru’s recommended service schedule; pay attention to oil changes and turbo-specific cooling in hot climates
Owners often note a trade-off between performance and fuel economy. The turbo engine shines when driven with some vigor or when carrying loads, but overall economy varies with terrain, climate, and use of all-wheel-drive assist.
Availability, trims, and packaging
Understanding where the 2.4 L turbo engine fits within the Outback lineup helps buyers decide if this is the right model for their needs.
- Trim placement: the turbo 2.4 L engine is the hallmark of the Outback XT line and related higher trims
- Standard vs. optional: base Outback models use the naturally aspirated 2.5 L engine; the 2.4 L turbo is an upgrade option
- Transmission: paired with Subaru’s Lineartronic CVT with an eight-speed manual-shift mode in turbo-equipped models
- All-wheel drive: standard across the Outback lineup, including the turbo variant
- Fuel strategy: premium fuel is recommended to achieve the turbo engine’s published output
For buyers seeking stronger performance without stepping up to a larger SUV, the 2.4 L turbo Outback XT provides a compelling balance of cargo space, ride comfort, and ready acceleration, while still offering the practical features that define the model line.
Summary
The 2024 Subaru Outback’s 2.4 L turbocharged flat-four is a premium option that delivers strong horsepower and substantial torque, with standard all-wheel drive and a CVT tuned for efficiency. It excels in daily driving and highway merging, and it adds notable towing capability compared with the base engine. Premium gasoline is recommended to maximize performance, and the turbo model sits in the higher trims of the Outback lineup. If you want more spirited performance without sacrificing the practicality and space the Outback is known for, the 2.4 L turbo option is the right choice.
