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Does Subaru only make boxer engines?

Yes, Subaru is known for exclusively using boxer engines in its vehicles. Boxer engines, also called flat or horizontally-opposed engines, are a unique engine configuration where the pistons move horizontally instead of vertically. This design is a core part of Subaru's engineering and has been a defining feature of the brand for decades.


Subaru's Commitment to Boxer Engines


Subaru has been using boxer engines since the 1960s and has remained committed to this engine design throughout its history. The company's engineers believe the boxer configuration offers several advantages, including a lower center of gravity for improved handling, smoother operation, and better weight distribution in the vehicle. Subaru's use of boxer engines has become so synonymous with the brand that it is often referred to as the "Subaru Boxer Engine."


Benefits of Boxer Engines



  • Improved Handling: The low, flat design of a boxer engine lowers the vehicle's center of gravity, resulting in better balance and more responsive handling.

  • Smoother Operation: The opposing pistons in a boxer engine cancel out vibrations, leading to a smoother and more refined driving experience.

  • Efficient Packaging: The compact boxer engine design allows for more efficient packaging within the vehicle, freeing up space for other components.


Subaru's commitment to boxer engines is a key part of the brand's identity and engineering philosophy. While other automakers may offer a variety of engine configurations, Subaru has remained steadfast in its use of this unique and distinctive engine design.

What is the biggest problem with Subaru engines?


One of the most notorious issues plaguing Subaru vehicles is head gasket leaks, particularly in older models with the EJ series engines. These leaks can lead to coolant loss, overheating, and potential engine damage if left untreated.



When did Subaru stop making 6 cylinder engines?


Starting with the 2020 model year, the six-cylinder EZ36 was dropped as the uplevel engine option for Subaru Legacy and Outback automobiles and instead the premium engine offered was the turbocharged four-cylinder FA24F, which was previously introduced for the 2019 model year as the sole engine option for the Subaru ...



What are the disadvantages of boxer engines?


Boxer Engine Disadvantages

  • Its wide size makes it somewhat more difficult to work on, especially in tight quarters.
  • As a result of its position, maintenance and repairs are usually higher in cost, in part because it takes mechanics longer to do routine work, like changing spark plugs.



Does Subaru make inline engines?


The Subaru EN inline-four engine was introduced in 1988 to replace the straight-two EK series engine that was originally engineered as an air-cooled engine, then modified as a water-cooled engine used in the 1969–1972 Subaru R-2.



What subarus have CVT transmissions?


Since 2014, the Lineartronic® CVT has been standard in all automatic Subaru models and trims (except the Subaru BRZ).



What years were Subaru engine problems?


The performance-oriented Subaru WRX and WRX STI from 2008 to 2014 unfortunately did not escape their own set of difficulties. These cars were plagued with engine problems. Such problems included bearing failure in the EJ series of engines, leading to a major engine rebuild or replacement.



When did Subaru stop using the boxer engine?


1966
The Japanese car manufacturer hasn't recently changed to the Subaru boxer engine - it's been part of the process for over five decades. The Subaru Corporation, in the top twenty automakers in the world, has stuck with the boxer engine since 1966.



Do any Subarus have 6 cylinder engines?


The Subaru XT was the first Subaru to possess a 6 cylinder engine and this was an ER engine. Since then, Subaru has created two other 6 cylinder engine ranges: the EG engine and the EZ engine.



Does Subaru make a non-Boxer engine?


All Subaru vehicles with internal combustion engines are equipped with the SUBARU BOXER engine. The only Subaru vehicle that does not feature the boxer engine is the Solterra EV, our first all-electric offering.



Which Subaru has the EJ engine?


The EJ series engine proved to stand the test of time, and was used in the following- 2002-2012 Subaru Impreza (including WRX and STi), 1998-2012 Subaru Legacy/Outback (including GT and XT), 2003-2006 Subaru Baja (including Turbo), 1998-2011 Subaru Forester (including XT), 2012-2014 Subaru Impreza WRX, and 2014-2021 ...


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.