Subaru’s most powerful SUV has arrived in NZ

Subaru’s most powerful SUV, the turbocharged Outback XT, has officially arrived in New Zealand.

Two variants of the model are currently on offer locally from, including the Outback XT Turbo and Touring model which both feature a turbocharged 2.4-litre flat four-cylinder engine producing 183kW and 350Nm of torque.

Such power enables the XT to tow approximately 2400kg braked, an increase of 400kg over the naturally aspirated model.

Subaru New Zealand Managing Director Wallis Dumper says the model will be priced higher than it was last year as it incorporates the new Clean Car Standard (CCS) fee.

For that reason, he now urges buyers to get their orders in as soon as possible before the new CCS scale takes effect in January 2024 and following years.

“You can forward order your Outback XT now for 2023 pricing, but vehicles must arrive before December 2023 and we also face the challenge of componentry supply issues so the old adage of ‘he who hesitates is lost’ stands true in this situation,” Dumper said.

“At current calculations, if the CCS impacts as proposed by the NZ government remain unchanged the increases could exceed ten thousand dollars on each model in a few years’ time.”

Pricing for the Outback XT Turbo is $67,990 while the Outback XT Turbo Touring is priced at $71,990 plus on-road costs and Clean Car Discount fee (CCS fee is included in the RRP).

Subaru’s most powerful SUV is now available to test drive from most dealerships across the country with pre-orders also being taken for a May delivery.