Does a Subaru Legacy have a turbo?
Turbo power is not universal in the Subaru Legacy; some trims have turbocharged engines, while base models are typically naturally aspirated. In recent years, the Legacy XT has offered a 2.4-liter turbocharged engine.
Turbo availability across generations
Subaru has offered turbocharged variants of the Legacy at two notable points in its history. One period featured a turbocharged sportier variant in the mid-2000s, and the other appears in the current generation with a turbocharged option on higher-end trims.
Past turbo models
The Legacy GT, produced in the mid-2000s, featured a turbocharged 2.5-liter engine. This variant was offered alongside the standard naturally aspirated Legacy models and remains a well-remembered example of a turbo Legacy from that era.
- Legacy GT (mid-2000s): 2.5-liter turbocharged engine, available 2005–2009
Conclusion: If you’re seeking turbo power from earlier Legacy generations, the GT variant is the primary historical example, though it is no longer in production.
Current turbo option
In the current generation, Subaru reintroduced turbocharged power with the Legacy XT, which uses a 2.4-liter turbocharged flat-four. This variant debuted with the sixth generation and remains the turbo option in most markets.
- Legacy XT (2020–present): 2.4-liter turbocharged engine
Conclusion: The modern turbo Legacy is available mainly as the XT trim, paired with a turbocharged 2.4L engine.
What to know if you're shopping for a turbo Legacy
Before you shop for a turbo Subaru Legacy, keep these considerations in mind to avoid surprises.
- Trim availability: Turbo power is typically limited to the XT/GT variants; base trims are generally naturally aspirated.
- Performance differences: Turbo models offer stronger acceleration and higher torque, especially at lower RPMs.
- Maintenance and fuel economy: Turbo engines may require more attentive maintenance and can influence fuel economy depending on driving style.
- Used vs. new: When buying used, verify the specific year’s turbo configuration and any maintenance history related to the turbo system.
Conclusion: Knowing which trim offers turbo power and what to expect in terms maintenance helps you choose the right Legacy for your needs.
Summary
The Subaru Legacy has had turbocharged options at two key points: the mid-2000s Legacy GT with a 2.5L turbo and, in the current generation, the Legacy XT with a 2.4L turbo. For most buyers today, turbo power is tied to these higher-end trims, while standard models remain naturally aspirated.
Which subarus have turbos?
Subaru currently offers turbocharged models in the Ascent, Outback, and WRX. Older or region-specific turbocharged models include the Legacy XT and some Forester and Crosstrek trims.
You can watch this video to see a review of the turbocharged Subaru Outback: 59sCarGurusYouTube · Nov 20, 2025
Current turbocharged models
- Ascent: The Ascent comes standard with a turbocharged 2.4-liter engine.
- Outback: Turbocharged engines are available on specific Outback trims, often designated as "XT".
- WRX: The WRX is Subaru's high-performance car and comes standard with a turbocharger.
Past and regional turbocharged models
- Legacy XT: The Legacy XT was a turbo model, though its availability varies by model year.
- Forester: Some older Forester models, as well as some current versions in specific markets, have offered a turbo option.
- Crosstrek: At least one recent model year includes a turbo engine as standard on a specific trim in some regions.
- Subaru XT: An older, classic coupe that was available with a turbo engine.
Does a 2013 Subaru Legacy have a turbo?
The Legacy's turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine also used to add some sporting flair to the Legacy lineup, but Subaru has discontinued it for 2013.
Is the Subaru Legacy turbo?
Subaru Turbo Cars
Subaru produces one high-performance car with a turbo, the WRX. The company also makes a car with a turbo engine, the Legacy.
What kind of engine does a Subaru Legacy have?
A Subaru Legacy has either a 2.5-liter SUBARU BOXER® 4-cylinder engine or an available 2.4-liter turbocharged SUBARU BOXER® 4-cylinder engine, depending on the trim level. The 2.5-liter engine is standard on lower trims and provides 182 horsepower, while the turbocharged 2.4-liter engine is optional on Sport and Touring XT trims and produces 260 horsepower.
- Standard engine: 2.5-liter SUBARU BOXER® 4-cylinder
- Available engine: 2.4-liter turbocharged SUBARU BOXER® 4-cylinder
- Standard engine horsepower: 182 hp
- Turbocharged engine horsepower: 260 hp
