What is the difference between Forester and Forester XT?
In a nutshell, the XT badge marks a turbocharged, sportier variant of Subaru’s Forester, while the standard Forester uses a naturally aspirated engine with a focus on practicality and efficiency. Today’s Forester lineup does not include an XT variant in the U.S., but the distinction has historically been about power, handling, and equipment.
What the XT badge means in the Forester lineup
This section explains the badge and what it signified across generations. The core idea was simple: XT meant more power and torque, plus some sportier tuning, compared with the non‑XT Forester. The exact specifications and equipment varied by model year and market.
Historical overview by era
Below is a quick reference of how the Forester XT differed from the base Forester across major generations.
- 2009–2013: Forester XT used a turbocharged 2.0-liter flat-four engine with around 224 horsepower; the base Forester used a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter engine with roughly 170–182 horsepower depending on the year.
- 2014–2018: Forester XT typically offered about 250 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, with sportier handling tuning and features compared with the NA Forester.
- 2019–2025: The turbo XT badge was phased out in the U.S. market; current Forester models use a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter engine, and the lineup emphasizes practicality and safety over turbocharged performance. Some global markets historically kept turbo variants in earlier years.
Conclusion: Turbocharged XT models delivered stronger acceleration, more torque, and often enhanced equipment, but generally came with higher fuel consumption and maintenance considerations than the base Forester.
Engine, performance, and practicality: side-by-side at a glance
A quick comparison helps illustrate the practical implications for daily driving, ownership costs, and long-term reliability. The differences typically center on propulsion, ride feel, and equipment packages.
- Propulsion: The XT used forced induction (turbocharged engine) with noticeably more horsepower and torque; the base Forester used a naturally aspirated engine with less peak power but steadier, predictable delivery.
- Ride and handling: XT trims often included sportier suspension tuning and larger wheels for a more dynamic feel; the base Forester prioritized comfort, ease of use, and ride quality.
- Equipment and trims: XT variants historically included more premium features and styling cues, though exact equipment varied by year. In recent years, the U.S. Forester lineup has focused on non-turbo configurations with practical amenities across trims.
Bottom line: If you wanted brisk acceleration and a more “sporty” character, the XT was the path. If you value fuel efficiency, simplicity, and lower maintenance costs, the base Forester is typically the better fit.
Current status: Is there still a Forester XT?
As of the latest model years, Subaru does not offer a Forester XT in the U.S. lineup. The Forester lineup centers on a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter engine, with trims that emphasize practicality, technology, and safety rather than turbocharged performance. Availability can vary by market, and some global markets historically offered turbo variants in earlier generations.
Bottom line: which should you choose?
If you crave stronger performance and don’t mind a higher fuel bill or premium fuel in some cases, an older XT could have appealed to you in the past. Today, for most buyers, the standard Forester provides the best balance of space, efficiency, and reliability, with modern safety and tech features across trims. Always verify the exact specifications and available trims for your model year and market before buying.
Summary
The main difference between Forester and Forester XT has always been turbocharged power versus naturally aspirated efficiency. The XT badge signified a higher-performance variant with more torque and sportier handling, while the non‑XT Forester focused on practicality and economy. In the current U.S. market, the turbocharged Forester XT is no longer offered, and buyers look to the standard Forester trims for daily versatility and value. For any purchase, check the specific model year and market to understand the exact powertrain and features on offer.
What is the difference between Subaru XT and regular?
The main difference is the engine: non-XT models have a standard engine for better fuel efficiency, while XT models feature a turbocharged engine for increased power and torque. This makes XT models more capable for tasks like towing and more engaging to drive, but they also have a higher purchase price and potentially lower fuel economy.
This video compares the acceleration and driving experience of the non-turbo and turbo Outback models: 56sJonathan NorrisYouTube · Jan 17, 2024
Subaru XT (Turbocharged)
- Performance: Offers significantly more horsepower and torque, making it feel more powerful for everyday driving, especially when accelerating or passing.
- Towing: Has a higher maximum towing capacity compared to non-XT models.
- Driving Experience: More fun to drive, especially when carrying a full load or on inclines.
- Cost: Higher initial purchase price.
- Fuel Economy: Generally lower fuel efficiency compared to the non-turbo model.
Non-XT (Standard Engine)
- Performance: Adequate power for daily commuting and general driving.
- Towing: Lower towing capacity.
- Driving Experience: Can feel less powerful, sometimes described as "buzzy" or struggling, particularly when loaded or on hills.
- Cost: Lower initial purchase price.
- Fuel Economy: Better fuel efficiency.
What is the meaning of XT in Subaru Forester?
The Subaru Forester XT is a turbocharged variant of the Forester SUV, featuring a 2.0-liter turbocharged flat-four engine producing 250 horsepower and 350 Nm of torque. It comes with all-wheel drive and offers a balanced mix of performance and practicality.
Why is Subaru discontinuing the Forester XT?
Same reason they got rid of the XT. Not enough people bought them compared to the regular model. Sales of regular model go up, you need higher production. Easiest way to do that is to kill off the niche models.
What is the difference between Subaru Forester and Subaru Forester XT?
The X and XS models feature a 2.5 L SOHC EJ253 engine, while the XT model features a 2.5 L turbocharged DOHC engine. Both engines have timing belt (camshaft). 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.
