What is the fuel economy of the Subaru Outback XT?
In brief, the turbocharged Outback XT typically achieves about 26 mpg combined (roughly 23 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway) in recent model years, with real-world results varying by driving style and conditions.
Overview of the fuel economy figures
The Outback XT uses a 2.4-liter turbocharged engine and Subaru's all-wheel drive with a continuously variable transmission in most trims. The fuel economy can vary slightly by year and equipment, but the numbers below reflect common configurations for the XT in recent generations.
EPA estimates for recent model years
The EPA estimates for the turbocharged Outback XT with AWD and CVT in typical conditions are as follows:
- City: about 23 mpg
- Highway: about 30 mpg
- Combined: about 26 mpg
Note: Actual results vary depending on conditions, load, and driving habits.
Real-world ranges reported by owners
In everyday driving, owners often report ranges that reflect mixed use. Typical ranges are:
- City driving: 21–25 mpg
- Highway driving: 28–32 mpg
- Combined driving: 24–28 mpg
These figures illustrate how real-world results can differ from EPA estimates based on factors like climate, terrain, and payload.
Factors that influence fuel economy
Several practical factors influence how efficiently the Outback XT uses fuel, beyond the basic engine specification:
- Engine and transmission pairing (2.4L turbo with CVT is common)
- Driving mode selection (Eco vs. Sport; off-road modes can affect mpg)
- Vehicle weight and cargo
- Drag from roof racks or accessories
- Tire type and condition
Summary
The Outback XT’s fuel economy sits in the mid-20s combined for modern turbocharged models, with EPA ratings around 23 city / 30 highway / 26 combined. Real-world mileage tends to fall within the ranges above, influenced by driving style, terrain, and load. For higher highway efficiency, consider lighter loads and maintaining proper tire pressure; for more power, the XT’s turbo engine delivers strong performance at the cost of some efficiency.
