Which Outback trims have turbo?

In brief, the turbocharged Outbacks are the XT variants and the Wilderness, while the standard trims use a naturally aspirated engine.

The Subaru Outback lineup uses two engines across its range: a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated flat-four and a 2.4-liter turbocharged version. The turbo engine is available on the XT-labeled trims and on the Wilderness model, delivering stronger acceleration and higher torque. Availability can vary by model year and market, so check your brochure or window sticker to confirm which trims include the turbo engine. If you don’t need turbo power, the base, Premium and non-XT Limited trims offer the 2.5L engine for efficiency and cost savings.

Turbo Outback Trims

To identify which trims get the turbo engine, look for the XT badges or the Wilderness designation. The following trims are associated with the 2.4L turbo power in recent model years:

• Limited XT


• Touring XT


• Wilderness

These trims employ the 2.4-liter turbocharged engine, delivering higher horsepower and torque than the non-turbo versions. Non-XT trims (Base, Premium, and standard Limited) use the 2.5L naturally aspirated engine and do not include turbo power by default.

Engine specs and performance

The turbo Outbacks pair the 2.4-liter FA24 turbocharged engine with all-wheel drive and typically deliver around 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. This setup provides quicker off-the-line acceleration and stronger pulling power compared with the 2.5L engine. Premium fuel is recommended for maximum output, though 87 octane may be acceptable in certain conditions.

Note that exact figures can vary by model year and market, and some trims may receive slight tuning differences. Always verify the engine specs for your specific year and region.

How to identify turbo trims

Turbo trims are usually labeled with XT in their name or designated as Wilderness. Exterior cues, badge placement, and the vehicle window sticker or official brochure will confirm the 2.4L turbo engine. Historically, Onyx Edition XT and other limited-run XT variants existed in certain years, but the core turbo lineup today centers on Limited XT, Touring XT, and Wilderness.

If you’re shopping used or certified pre-owned, ask for the production year’s brochure to ensure the vehicle has the 2.4L turbo engine and not the naturally aspirated 2.5L option.

Historical notes on turbo trims

Subaru has periodically offered special editions and market-specific variants that use the 2.4L turbo engine. While Limited XT, Touring XT, and Wilderness are the main turbo-bearing trims in recent years, some markets or limited runs may include additional XT-tuned variants. Confirm with the dealer for your specific year and region.

Summary

Turbo power in the Subaru Outback is concentrated in the XT-labeled trims—Limited XT and Touring XT—and the Wilderness model, all of which use the 2.4-liter turbocharged engine. The remaining trims rely on the naturally aspirated 2.5L engine. When shopping, verify the engine specification on the window sticker or official brochure to ensure you’re getting the turbo version you want.

Which year to avoid a 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. 

Is the Subaru 2.4 L Turbo a good engine?

Yes, the Subaru 2.4L turbo engine is generally considered a good engine, offering significantly more power than the naturally aspirated versions while being built to be reliable and overbuilt. It provides better acceleration, towing capacity, and performance at high altitudes, but it is also more complex than a non-turbo engine and has lower fuel economy. Proper maintenance, such as more frequent oil changes, can help ensure long-term reliability.
 
Advantages of the 2.4L turbo engine

• More power and torque: It provides a significant increase in torque, making it feel much more responsive than the 2.5L non-turbo engine. This is especially beneficial for passing and merging. 
• Stronger performance: The engine is more capable in situations that require more power, like climbing hills or towing. 
• Built for reliability: It's considered an overbuilt engine, designed to be more reliable than older Subaru turbo engines, addressing some of the issues seen in previous generations. 
• Can use regular fuel: The engine is designed to run on 87 octane regular gasoline. 

Potential considerations for the 2.4L turbo engine

• Fuel economy: The turbo engine generally gets slightly lower fuel economy compared to the 2.5L non-turbo. 
• Complexity: Turbocharged engines are more complex than naturally aspirated ones, which can mean more potential maintenance points, such as oil supply bolts and gasket leaks. 
• Maintenance: To maximize longevity, frequent oil changes (every 3,750 to 5,000 miles) are recommended to prevent potential oil-related issues. 

Verdict
The Subaru 2.4L turbo is a good engine if you prioritize power and performance. It's a reliable and capable engine, especially when you perform diligent maintenance. If your priority is the lowest possible maintenance complexity and fuel cost, the 2.5L naturally aspirated engine might be a better fit.

Which Subaru Outback has a turbo?

The Subaru Outback trims with a turbocharged engine are the XT models: Onyx Edition XT, Limited XT, and Touring XT, along with the Wilderness model. These models use a 2.4-liter turbocharged SUBARU BOXER engine that produces 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque.
 
You can watch this video to compare the Subaru Outback with a turbo engine and without: 1mAlex PrestigiacomoYouTube · Aug 31, 2022

• XT Models: Onyx Edition XT, Limited XT, and Touring XT 
• Wilderness: The Wilderness model also comes with the turbocharged engine 
• Engine: The turbocharged 2.4-liter engine provides 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque 
• Other trims: Trims without the "XT" or "Wilderness" designation (Base, Premium, Onyx Edition, Limited, Touring) come with a standard 2.5-liter engine 

What is the best trim for the Subaru Outback?

The best Subaru Outback trim depends on your needs: the Touring XT is the most luxurious and tech-filled for comfort, while the Wilderness is the best for off-road capability. For a balance of features and value, the Onyx Edition XT is often cited as a strong option due to its combination of turbocharged performance and useful amenities at a lower price than the top trims. 
You can watch this video to learn more about the differences between Subaru Outback trims: 1mAlex PrestigiacomoYouTube · Oct 30, 2021
For luxury and technology

• Touring XT: This is the top-tier trim with the most features.
  • Engine: 260-hp turbocharged engine.
  • Luxury: Nappa leather-trimmed upholstery, ventilated front seats, and a heated steering wheel.
  • Technology: DriverFocus® Distraction Mitigation System, power-folding mirrors, and a 180-degree Front-View Monitor. 

For off-road capability

• Wilderness: This trim is purpose-built for off-road adventures.
  • Engine: 260-hp turbocharged engine.
  • Off-road features: Upgraded suspension, 9.5 inches of ground clearance, and dual-function X-MODE®.
  • Durability: All-terrain tires, an aluminum front skid plate, and water-repellent StarTex® upholstery. 

This video discusses the features of the Wilderness trim and its off-road capabilities: 1mBen’s Car ReviewsYouTube · Apr 21, 2023
For the best value

• Onyx Edition XT: Offers a great mix of features for its price point.
  • Engine: 260-hp turbocharged engine.
  • Features: Includes many useful upgrades like the hands-free power rear gate, a power moonroof, and a Harman Kardon® audio system, while being less expensive than the top trims. 

Other trims to consider

• Limited: Provides a leather-trimmed interior and other upgrades over the base and Premium models, making it a more comfortable and well-equipped option. 
• Premium: A great mid-range option that adds convenience features like heated front seats and a leather-wrapped steering wheel to the base model's essentials. It is considered a strong value by some for those who don't need the turbo engine or high-end luxury.