2022 Subaru Outback Limited XT AWD Review

Vehicle Specifications

Subaru equips the 2022 Outback Limited XT AWD with a 2.4L turbocharged BOXER four-cylinder engine producing 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. Power reaches all four wheels through a Lineartronic continuously variable transmission (CVT) with an eight-speed manual shift mode. Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and 8.7 inches (221 mm) of ground clearance help the Outback handle snow-covered roads, gravel and uneven surfaces. This five-passenger vehicle measures approximately 191.3 inches long and provides 32.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, expanding to about 75.7 cubic feet when the seats are folded. Properly equipped turbocharged models can tow up to 3,500 pounds (1,588 kg). Equipment and trim names should be checked against the original market-specific window sticker, particularly for Canadian vehicles.

Overview & Positioning

Subaru built the 2022 Outback Limited XT AWD for drivers who want the comfort of a family wagon, the versatility of a crossover and enough power for confident highway travel. In the U.S. lineup, it sits above the naturally aspirated Limited and below the Touring XT, combining turbocharged performance with leather-trimmed seating, upgraded conveniences and standard all-wheel drive. Its long roof and elevated ride height make it appealing if you travel with children, pets, camping equipment or sports gear. Unlike many tall SUVs, the Outback keeps a relatively accessible cargo loading height, making daily errands easier. A comfortable suspension and good outward visibility also support long-distance driving. Buyers looking for trail-focused hardware may prefer the Wilderness, but the Limited XT is aimed at people who prioritize interior comfort, stronger passing power and year-round usefulness.

What's New for 2026?

For 2022, Subaru introduced the Outback Wilderness, a trail-focused addition with 9.5 inches of ground clearance, all-terrain tires and revised suspension tuning. Limited XT models continued with the turbocharged powertrain and comfort-oriented equipment established earlier in the sixth-generation Outback. This is worth understanding when comparing the two because the Wilderness prioritizes rougher roads while the Limited XT focuses on daily driving and highway refinement. The 2022 Limited XT also retains the large portrait-style infotainment system and familiar dashboard layout introduced for 2020. Specific equipment and packages can vary by market, so check the original vehicle documentation. If you find a carefully maintained 2021 Limited XT at a meaningful discount, the relatively modest changes for 2022 make the older vehicle worth considering.

Exterior Design Review

A long roofline, protective lower-body cladding and raised suspension give the 2022 Outback Limited XT AWD its familiar wagon-meets-SUV appearance. Subaru uses pronounced wheel arches and functional roof rails to support outdoor use without making the Limited XT look as rugged as the Wilderness. Its 8.7 inches of ground clearance helps on uneven driveways, snowy streets and maintained gravel roads. A broad cargo opening and relatively low load floor also make luggage and sports equipment easier to handle than in some taller SUVs. At approximately 191.3 inches long, the Outback needs more parking space than a small crossover, but its proportions are easy to judge from the driver's seat. If you regularly carry roof boxes or bicycles, check accessory compatibility and roof-load limits before buying. The styling puts everyday usefulness ahead of attention-grabbing details.

Interior Design Review

Comfort is one of the strongest reasons to choose the Limited XT over a lower Outback trim, especially if you spend hours driving every week. Leather-trimmed seating, heated front seats and power adjustments help create a more upscale cabin, while generous rear-seat room accommodates adults and child seats. An 11.6-inch portrait-oriented infotainment display dominates the dashboard and places entertainment, vehicle settings and some climate functions on a central screen. Although the layout looks modern, certain everyday adjustments require more touchscreen interaction than a physical button would. Cargo space is generous, with approximately 32.5 cubic feet behind the rear bench and up to 75.7 cubic feet with the seats folded. That flexibility is useful for pets, luggage and outdoor equipment. When shopping used, inspect seat wear, test the power adjustments and check that the infotainment display responds consistently. The condition of these comfort features contributes significantly to the value of a Limited XT.

Driving Experience

Behind the wheel, the 2022 Outback Limited XT AWD feels composed and comfortable instead of aggressively sporty. Its suspension absorbs broken pavement and long highway stretches without making the vehicle feel excessively soft. Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive supports traction when road conditions change, while the elevated driving position provides a clear view ahead. The 260-horsepower turbocharged engine delivers noticeably stronger acceleration than the standard 2.5L Outback, particularly when passing, climbing hills or carrying luggage. The CVT favors smooth operation but can feel unusual if you are accustomed to conventional automatic gear changes. During firm acceleration, engine speed may rise and hold before the vehicle catches up, and some drivers may notice a short delay in power response. Steering remains predictable, although the Outback is not designed for aggressive cornering. Test it in city traffic and on a highway to decide whether the transmission's behavior suits your driving style.

Powertrain & Specifications

Power comes from Subaru's 2.4L turbocharged BOXER engine, which uses horizontally opposed cylinders and produces 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. By comparison, the naturally aspirated 2.5L Outback produces 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft, making the turbo model noticeably stronger under load. Subaru pairs the engine with a Lineartronic CVT and standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, creating a drivetrain focused on smooth delivery and year-round traction. Simulated gear ratios give drivers some control on hills or winding roads. Properly equipped turbocharged Outback models can tow up to 3,500 pounds, compared with 2,700 pounds for naturally aspirated versions. If you intend to tow, check the owner's manual for the exact vehicle, including tongue-weight and total-load limits. The added power is useful, but maintenance records deserve attention because turbocharged engines and CVTs can be costly to repair after warranty coverage ends.

Fuel Economy

Fuel consumption reflects the Limited XT's emphasis on stronger performance and standard all-wheel-drive capability. U.S. EPA estimates for the 2022 turbocharged Outback are 23 MPG city, 30 MPG highway and 26 MPG combined. At 15,000 miles per year, a driver averaging 26 MPG would use approximately 577 gallons of gasoline. At $3.50 per gallon, that works out to roughly $2,020 annually before changes in fuel prices or driving conditions. Canadian buyers should consult Natural Resources Canada's published ratings in litres per 100 kilometres because the Canadian test cycle is not identical to the U.S. EPA cycle. Winter tires, cold starts, idling, roof-mounted equipment and towing can increase consumption. If you mostly make short city trips, the non-turbo Outback may save fuel over several years. Drivers who regularly carry heavy loads or travel through mountains may consider the extra power worth the additional fuel expense.

Technology & Connectivity

Technology in the Limited XT centers on Subaru's STARLINK multimedia system and its 11.6-inch vertical touchscreen. Compatible Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity lets you access navigation, calls and audio through your phone. The large display is easy to see, but some climate adjustments and commonly used functions require several touchscreen interactions. Software responsiveness is worth checking on a used example because updates can influence stability and usability. During a test drive, connect your phone, change the temperature, switch audio sources and confirm the display responds without freezing. Built-in navigation and connected-service availability may depend on equipment, region and subscription status. If you intend to keep the vehicle for several years, verify which services continue after introductory periods end. A reliable, easy-to-use interface is more valuable than screen size alone.

Safety Ratings & Driver Assistance

Safety is a major strength of the 2022 Subaru Outback, supported by extensive driver-assistance equipment and strong crash-test performance. The 2022 Outback received an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ award under the institute's applicable testing criteria. Subaru's EyeSight system includes adaptive cruise control, pre-collision braking and lane-support features that help drivers manage traffic and respond to potential hazards. Limited XT equipment also includes useful visibility and driver-assistance features, although individual specifications should be checked against the vehicle's original market-specific equipment list. EyeSight uses forward-facing cameras, so snow, heavy rain, windshield damage or dirt can limit some functions. When shopping used, check that warning lights clear normally and inspect the windshield for damage. Review the original results at https://www.iihs.org/ratings and check the vehicle identification number for outstanding recalls before purchase. Driver assistance can reduce workload, but it cannot replace attentive driving.

Pricing & Value

Pricing placed the 2022 Outback Limited XT AWD above the naturally aspirated Limited because of its stronger engine and richer equipment. In the United States, its original starting MSRP was approximately $37,000 before destination charges and options; Canadian pricing and trim availability should be checked against the relevant Subaru Canada documentation. Today, asking prices depend on mileage, maintenance history, collision records, local demand and overall condition. A well-maintained turbocharged example may justify a premium over a cheaper vehicle with incomplete records or unresolved mechanical issues. The stronger engine makes sense if you often climb steep grades or travel with passengers and luggage, but buyers who rarely use that power may find the non-turbo Limited a better value. Compare similar vehicles, obtain a vehicle-history report and arrange an independent pre-purchase inspection. The lowest advertised price is not always the lowest ownership cost.

Reliability & Ownership Outlook

Long-term ownership depends heavily on maintenance records, road conditions and how the previous owner treated the turbocharged engine and CVT. Regular oil changes with the specified oil and attention to the cooling system are important for the 2.4L turbo engine. During a test drive, investigate unusual hesitation, vibration, transmission warnings or inconsistent acceleration instead of assuming they are normal CVT characteristics. In Canada and northern U.S. states, inspect the underbody and suspension for road-salt corrosion. Tires deserve attention too because Subaru's AWD system requires closely matched tire sizes and tread wear, potentially making replacement more expensive if only one tire is damaged. Follow the maintenance schedule for the specific vehicle and keep a reserve for wear items and age-related repairs. If you plan to drive beyond 100,000 miles or 160,000 kilometres, a thorough inspection and complete service history provide a stronger basis for buying than broad claims about brand reliability.

Pros

The 2022 Subaru Outback Limited XT AWD offers a compelling combination of power, comfort and year-round versatility. Its turbocharged engine delivers stronger highway passing performance than the standard Outback, while Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and generous ground clearance help when conditions turn snowy or roads become uneven. A comfortable suspension, supportive seating and good visibility make long trips easier, and the broad cargo opening is useful for luggage, camping equipment and pets. Leather-trimmed seating and modern cabin technology add a more upscale feel than lower trims. Properly equipped turbocharged models can also tow up to 3,500 pounds, expanding the vehicle's usefulness for smaller trailers. These strengths make the Limited XT especially appealing to households that need one vehicle for commuting, family travel and occasional outdoor activities.

Cons

Several compromises deserve attention before choosing the Limited XT. Fuel economy trails the naturally aspirated Outback and many hybrid competitors, especially during winter or short urban trips. The CVT can feel unfamiliar during strong acceleration, and some drivers may notice a brief delay before the turbocharged engine responds. The large infotainment display looks modern but relies heavily on menus for certain everyday controls, which can be frustrating if the software is slow. Purchase prices are higher than for non-turbo trims, and the extra power may not justify the premium if you rarely travel with heavy loads. As mileage increases, potential repairs to the turbocharged engine, CVT and AWD components also deserve consideration. Buyers who prioritize simple controls or the lowest operating expenses should compare other Outback versions.

Final Verdict

Choosing the 2022 Subaru Outback Limited XT AWD makes sense if you want a comfortable, versatile vehicle with noticeably stronger performance than the standard Outback. Its turbocharged engine is helpful for passing, hills and loaded highway travel, while standard all-wheel drive and useful ground clearance support year-round driving. A spacious cabin, flexible cargo area and upscale Limited equipment make it well suited to family trips and outdoor activities. Still, the CVT's driving feel, touchscreen controls and higher fuel use will not appeal to everyone, and used examples deserve careful inspection. If you rarely need the additional engine power, a naturally aspirated Limited may offer better value. Compare local prices, review maintenance records and test the vehicle thoroughly before committing. For drivers who value comfort, usable space and confident all-weather capability, the Limited XT remains a strong option when its condition and asking price are right.