Outback Touring?, or Touring XT?

[Pola]

HI all, want to trade in my 2023 Toyota Highlander hybrid EXL, AWD with 37k miles for an Outback Touring, or Touring XT.
Reason: its so high, sometimes cant see what's below me, and the turning radius bothers me,... plus the Highlander doesn't fit in my carport and the Suburu has electronic folding side mirrors and is a little bit narrower.
The MPG is similar, and the ride is comfortable. I didn't try the ASCENT, maybe I should... I transport rescue dogs sometimes...
I test drove the Touring and the Touring XT, .... I'm deciding against the XT since I've heard it's higher maintenance, and do I really need all that horsepower ?
I didn't think the Touring was that deficient in power when I drove it.
Also I don't like the facial scanner, so I would disable it.
Thanks for any opinions...

 

[piste]

Sounds like decision made. What are your questions?

 

[2025 Forester]

I have a 2026 Outback Touring XT and love it! However, I have one big complaint: I live in the mountains and the XT has no engine braking and I have to ride the brakes all the way downhill. As a result, I will probably replace it with an Outback Touring when I trade. Before the XT I had a Forester that was wonderful regarding engine braking, never had to ride the brakes going downhill.

 

[CharlieK911]

Your 2026 OTXT does have engine braking. Just use the paddle shift to slow on descent!