How many liters is a Subaru engine?
Subaru engines come in several displacement sizes, most commonly 2.0 or 2.5 liters in modern models, with a 2.4-liter turbo option in newer and higher-performance trims. A larger 3.6-liter flat-six appeared in older models. The number of liters indicates the engine’s displacement, which influences power, torque, and efficiency.
Understanding the question requires looking at how Subaru has evolved its engine families over time. Displacement varies by model year and market, and Subaru has used four-, six-, and turbocharged configurations across its lineup. Below is a snapshot of current, recent, and historical sizes to help shoppers and enthusiasts compare engines.
Current and recent Subaru engine displacements
Here are the displacement sizes you’re most likely to encounter in today’s Subaru lineup and in recent generations:
- 2.0 L — FB20/FA20 family engines (available in naturally aspirated and turbo variants in different markets and models)
- 2.5 L — FB25 engine (a staple in many models such as Impreza, Crosstrek, Forester, and Outback)
- 2.4 L — FA24 engine (turbocharged variants found in higher-output trims and several lineup entries, including some SUVs and sportier models)
- 3.6 L — EZ36 H6 (historical, used in certain older models and discontinued in most current lineups)
In practical terms, most modern Subarus you’ll shop for have 2.0, 2.5, or 2.4 liters of displacement, while the 3.6-liter option remains part of Subaru’s history rather than its present-day core lineup.
Historical and notable engine sizes in Subaru's history
Subaru has used several notable displacement sizes in earlier decades, especially as it migrated from older four-cylinder designs to modern turbo and boxer layouts:
- 2.0 L — EJ20 (a widely used four-cylinder in various generations, including older Impreza models)
- 2.5 L — EJ25 (a common four-cylinder in older Outback, Legacy, and other models)
- 3.6 L — EZ36 (a larger flat-six used in some models around the 2010s, now largely phased out)
These historical sizes illustrate Subaru’s shift toward smaller, more efficient engines with modern turbocharging and direct injection, while still offering larger displacement in legacy or used-market vehicles.
Understanding engine displacement in Subaru cars
Displacement and model naming
Subaru’s engine family codes (such as EJ, FB, FA, and EZ) indicate the generation and design, while the numerical value (2.0, 2.5, 2.4, 3.6) denotes liters of displacement. Turbocharged variants often share the same displacement but deliver higher power and torque due to forced induction.
Where to find displacement information
Displacement is listed on the vehicle’s window sticker, in the owner’s manual, and on the engine's data plate under the hood. In brochures and official specs, you’ll typically see “2.0L,” “2.5L,” or “2.4L” alongside model names and trim levels.
Summary
Subaru’s engine displacements predominantly range from 2.0 to 2.5 liters in current production, with a 2.4-liter turbo option appearing in many higher-performance or modern SUV trims. Historically, Subaru also offered larger 3.6-liter flat-six engines and older 2.0–2.5-liter four-cylinders in earlier generations. If you’re shopping today, expect 2.0L, 2.5L, or 2.4L turbo engines, with the exact choice depending on the model and trim. When evaluating a used Subaru, check the exact engine code (FB, FA, EJ, EZ) and displacement to understand the power, efficiency, and maintenance needs of that specific vehicle.
