Does the Subaru Crosstrek have a 6 cylinder engine?
The Crosstrek does not offer a six-cylinder engine. It relies on a compact 2.0-liter horizontally opposed four-cylinder engine across most trims, with a hybrid variant that pairs the same four-cylinder with electric motors. There is no six-cylinder option in the Crosstrek lineup as of 2025.
Engine options for the Crosstrek
Understanding the available powertrains helps buyers assess performance and efficiency. The Crosstrek's engine choices are limited to four cylinders, with or without hybrid assistance.
- 2.0-liter horizontally opposed four-cylinder engine (boxer) — standard in most non-hybrid Crosstrek models; emphasizes efficiency and all-wheel drive.
- 2.0-liter e-Boxer hybrid drivetrain — combines the same four-cylinder engine with electric motors and battery for higher fuel economy while retaining Subaru’s AWD capability.
In short, no six-cylinder option exists in current Crosstrek models. The brand maintains a light, efficient powertrain strategy for this model line.
Why Subaru sticks to four cylinders in the Crosstrek
With the Crosstrek, Subaru prioritizes efficiency, reliability, and standard AWD over high horsepower. The 2.0-liter flat-four configuration offers adequate power for daily driving and light off-road use, while hybridization helps meet stricter fuel economy standards.
Summary
Conclusion: The Subaru Crosstrek does not have a six-cylinder engine. It is powered by a 2.0-liter flat-four engine, with an accompanying hybrid option that uses the same engine with electric motors. If you specifically want a six-cylinder Subaru, you would need to explore other models such as the Outback or Forester.
Which Subaru has a 6 cylinder engine?
Subaru models that have featured 6-cylinder engines include the Legacy, Outback, and Tribeca from certain model years, as well as older models like the Alcyone (XT6) and Alcyone SVX. The most recent 6-cylinder models are typically found in the 3.6R versions of the Legacy, Outback, and Tribeca, with the last 6-cylinder engine produced for the 2019 Outback.
| Model | Years with 6-Cylinder Engine |
|---|---|
| Outback | ~2001–2019 |
| Legacy | ~2002–2019 |
| Tribeca | ~2006–2014 |
| Alcyone (XT6 in the U.S.) | 1988–1991 |
| Alcyone SVX | 1991–1996 |
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What is the common problem of a Subaru Crosstrek?
Common Subaru Crosstrek problems include infotainment and electrical glitches (like screen freezes or connectivity issues), problems with the CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) such as shuddering or delayed acceleration, and exterior issues like easily cracked windshields or fading paint. Some older models have specific issues, such as excessive oil consumption or engine problems.
This video discusses common problems with the Subaru Crosstrek, including issues with the transmission, engine, and electrical systems: 1mFuel ForceYouTube · May 5, 2025
Infotainment and electrical problems
- Glitches: The infotainment screen can freeze, become unresponsive, or reboot unexpectedly.
- Connectivity: Issues with Bluetooth connectivity and Apple CarPlay are frequently reported.
- Other electronic issues: Malfunctions in driver-assist functions, the backup camera, and key fobs have been noted.
- A/C system: Some owners report the A/C system intermittently failing to respond to settings.
Transmission and engine concerns
- CVT issues: Many owners report shuddering, hesitation, or a droning noise from the CVT.
- Engine noise: The engine can be loud during hard acceleration due to the CVT keeping RPMs high.
- Oil consumption: Older models, particularly from 2012–2015, have reported excessive oil consumption.
- Engine failure: Some older models experienced engine failure due to fractured valve springs, leading to recalls.
Exterior and interior issues
- Windshield cracking: Some models are susceptible to windshields cracking easily under minor stress.
- Paint and trim: Fading, peeling, or cracking paint and issues with exterior trim have been reported.
- Rust: Some owners have reported issues with rust.
- Interior rattles: Rattles from the A-pillars or behind the dashboard can occur.
Other potential problems
- Brakes: Some owners have reported issues with premature brake pad/rotor wear, pulsation, or other brake system components.
- Exhaust system: Problems with mufflers, catalytic converters, or exhaust pipes have been reported by some owners.
Which Crosstrek has the best engine?
The best engine for a Subaru Crosstrek is generally the 2.5-liter Boxer engine, which produces 182182182 horsepower and is available on the Sport, Limited, and Wilderness trims. While the base 2.0-liter engine (152152152 hp) is sufficient for city driving, the 2.5-liter provides a much more confident experience, especially for highway merging and passing, with comparable fuel economy.
This video compares the 2.0L and 2.5L engines in the Subaru Crosstrek: 50sDriven By GearsYouTube · Jun 26, 2024
2.5-liter Boxer Engine
- Power: 182182182 hp and 176176176 lb-ft of torque.
- Benefits: A noticeable and worthwhile improvement over the base engine, making highway driving, passing, and merging easier and more responsive. It also adds more capability, especially on the Wilderness trim which has a higher ground clearance and more off-road features.
- Fuel Economy: Similar to the 2.0-liter engine, with up to 343434 highway MPG.
- Best for: Drivers who frequently drive on highways, need more passing power, or want better performance for their vehicle.
You can watch this video to learn more about the performance of the 2.5L engine in the Subaru Crosstrek: 1mAuto Buyers Guide | Alex on AutosYouTube · May 8, 2023
2.0-liter Boxer Engine
- Power: 152152152 hp and 145145145 lb-ft of torque.
- Benefits: More affordable and offers slightly better fuel efficiency.
- Fuel Economy: Up to 333333 highway MPG.
- Best for: Drivers who primarily drive in the city and are looking to save on the initial purchase price.
Which one to choose
- If your budget allows, the 2.5-liter engine is the recommended choice due to its significant performance upgrade and comparable fuel efficiency.
- The 2.0-liter engine is adequate if your driving is mostly around town and you prioritize the lower cost.
Does the Subaru Crosstrek come in a 6 cylinder?
The Crosstrek Base and Premium are powered by a 152-hp 2.0-liter 4-cylinder SUBARU BOXER® engine. Both trim levels are offered with either a standard 6-speed manual transmission or optional Lineartronic® CVT (continuously variable transmission).
