What is the fuel economy of the Subaru Outback XT L 100km?
Typically, the Outback XT L with the 2.4-liter turbo engine drinks about 8.5–9.0 liters per 100 kilometers (roughly 26–28 mpg combined). Exact figures depend on year, market, transmission, and whether the vehicle is carrying a heavy load or roof-mounted accessories.
In this article, we break down how fuel economy is measured for the Outback XT L, what official estimates say in common markets, how real-world performance can diverge, and practical tips to optimize efficiency over a 100-km drive.
Official fuel economy figures
EPA estimates for the US-market 2.4L turbo Outback XT L typically show the following numbers for common configurations:
- Combined fuel economy: about 26 miles per gallon (mpg), which translates to roughly 9.0 liters per 100 kilometers (L/100 km).
- City fuel economy: around 23 mpg (approximately 10.2 L/100 km).
- Highway fuel economy: around 30 mpg (about 7.8 L/100 km).
Note: These are official estimates and can vary by model year, transmission choice, AWD configuration, and other factors. Always check the specific figures for the exact year and trim you’re considering.
Real-world results and factors that influence consumption
In real-world driving, fuel economy often falls short of EPA estimates, sometimes by a few miles per gallon, depending on conditions and habits. The Outback XT L’s efficiency is shaped by several variables beyond the engine itself.
- Driving style: Aggressive acceleration and high speeds significantly raise fuel use.
- Load and aerodynamics: Heavier loads, roof racks, and cargo boxes increase drag and consumption.
- All-wheel drive and weight: AWD adds weight and drivetrain loss, which can lower efficiency compared with two-wheel-drive configurations.
- Tire condition and pressure: Underinflated tires or low-quality tires increase rolling resistance.
- Maintenance: Regular servicing, clean air filters, proper oil and spark plug maintenance help maintain optimal economy.
- Terrain and altitude: Hilly routes and higher elevations require more power and burn more fuel.
For the 100-km benchmark, expect a broad range around the official figures, with real-world results typically clustering near 8.5–9.5 L/100 km depending on the mix of city and highway driving and the factors listed above.
Tips to maximize fuel economy on a 100-km trip
Direct actions you can take to improve efficiency on a 100-km run include the following:
- Maintain steady speeds and use smooth acceleration and braking.
- Keep tires inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended pressures.
- Minimize roof-mounted gear and avoid heavy cargo when possible.
- Use cruise control on highways to maintain a consistent pace.
- Schedule regular maintenance and ensure the vehicle is tuned (air filter clean, spark plugs in good condition).
Adopting these practices can yield noticeable fuel savings without sacrificing safety or comfort.
Summary
For the Subaru Outback XT L, a practical expectation is about 8.5–9.0 L/100 km in typical mixed driving, or roughly 26–28 mpg. Official EPA numbers in the US commonly show about 23 mpg city, 30 mpg highway, and 26 mpg combined for the 2.4L turbo model. Real-world results vary with driving style, load, and road conditions, but informed driving habits can trim consumption over a 100-km trip. Always verify the exact figures for your specific year and market, as efficiencies can shift with updates and regional testing standards.
Is 5.8 l per 100km good?
Anything that is listed as less than 6-litres/100km or more than 16.5km/1-litre is considered to be pretty good.
How many miles per gallon does the Outback XT get?
22 mpg city / 29 mpg highway
2024 Subaru Outback Touring XT: 22 mpg city / 29 mpg highway*
Is the Subaru 2.5 Turbo a good engine?
New Subaru 2.5 engines are reliable, although people have mixed feelings and results with CVT transmissions. The problem with older EJ25 engines is that fluids would sit and rest against the shear line where the manifold meets the block - which is normal for boxer engines.
What year was a bad year for the 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.
