How to tell if your Subaru is turbo?
Turbo Subarus are typically WRX- or STI-badged cars, widely recognized by a distinctive hood scoop and specialized engine bay plumbing. The quickest way to be certain is to check the window sticker or VIN for the engine code and turbo designation.
Badge and model recognition
Model and trim badges remain the most accessible clues. Look for specific names that indicate a turbocharged variant.
- WRX or WRX STI badges on the trunk, doorsill plates, or rear panels signal a turbocharged model.
- Forester XT or Outback XT badges indicate turbocharged variants in certain markets and years.
- Some Subarus feature a Turbo badge or an “XT” badge on the tailgate, depending on the generation and market.
Badges are helpful, but not universal. Some cars may have badge omissions, aftermarket decorations, or regional naming differences, so verify with documentation if you’re unsure.
Visual cues under the hood
The engine bay often carries telltale signs of a turbocharged setup. Here’s what to inspect without removing any covers.
- A functional hood scoop is common on WRX/STI and many turbo-equipped models, serving to channel air to the intercooler.
- Intercooler piping running from a turbo to the throttle body or intake is a major clue—look for large aluminum pipes and couplers.
- In many generations, a visible front-mounted or air-to-air intercooler sits in front of the radiator, connected by sizable pipes.
Layout varies by model year and market, so absence of a hood scoop or certain pipes does not definitively rule out a turbo engine.
Engine bay and exhaust indicators
If you can peek deeper into the engine area, these features further indicate a turbocharged powerplant.
- A turbocharger installed near the exhaust manifold, often with heat shielding, is a clear sign.
- Turbo-specific charge pipes and intercooler plumbing guiding air from the turbo to the intake point are common in turbo models.
- Some engines use compact turbo architectures wrapped in protective covers; in others, the turbo is more conspicuous and accessible.
Some newer Subarus use compact or tucked layouts, so the absence of a visibly obvious turbo is not a definitive answer—documentation should be checked for confirmation.
VIN, window sticker, and official specs
Documentation provides the authoritative answer. If you want a definitive yes or no, these sources are your best bet.
- Window sticker (Monroney label) and the factory build sheet list the engine and whether it is turbocharged.
- VIN decoding or the dealer’s service/parts records can reveal the exact engine code and turbo designation associated with the vehicle.
If you’re unsure after a quick look, ask a Subaru dealer to verify the engine code for the VIN you’re examining.
Model-year and market variations
Turbo availability isn’t identical across all markets or generations. Some years offered turbo variants across several trims, while others did not.
- In the U.S., WRX and WRX STI are the primary turbocharged sedan options, with other trims occasionally offering turbo engines in specific years or markets.
- European, Asian, and other markets have had turbocharged Impreza, XV/Crosstrek, Forester, and Outback variants with different engine codes and naming conventions.
- Engine designs evolve: modern turbo Subarus often use newer turbo architectures (for example, FA-series engines) that differ from older EJ or FB designs.
When buying used, verify the exact engine code and turbo status for that model year and market to avoid confusion.
Bottom line and verification steps
To determine whether a Subaru is turbocharged, combine badge checks, hood-and-engine visuals, and official paperwork. For a definitive answer, rely on the window sticker or a dealer-confirmed engine code tied to the VIN.
Summary
Turbo Subarus are usually identified through WRX/ STI badges, a functional hood scoop, and turbo-related engine-bay plumbing, but the most reliable verdict comes from official documentation or VIN decoding. When in doubt, consult the dealer or review the vehicle’s build sheet for confirmation.
How do I tell if my car is turbo or not?
Comments Section
- look on back of car for word turbo.
- Examine paperwork from when you bought the car.
- open the hood and check.
- ask a mechanic or the dealer to show you the turbocharger under your hood. If they can't, you don't have one.
How to tell if a Subaru is turbo?
You can tell if your Subaru is a turbo by looking for an "XT" or "Turbo" badge on the rear, checking under the hood for a flat, gray intercooler on top of the engine, and looking for a hood scoop. A test drive can also reveal the distinct power surge of a turbo engine, and your car's vehicle handbook will have the official engine information.
Physical and visual checks
- Check for badges: Look for a "Turbo," "XT," or "T" badge on the trunk or rear doors.
- Look under the hood:
- Intercooler: A turbocharged engine has a horizontal, flat, gray intercooler located on top of the engine, often towards the back. It will have metal piping leading to it. A non-turbo engine will lack this component, or have a round rubber air intake tube instead.
- Hood scoop: Many turbo models, especially WRX and certain Forester and Outback trims, have a scoop on the hood that sits over the intercooler.
- Look at the exhaust: Some turbo models have a dual exhaust, but this is not always the case, so check other indicators as well.
Other methods
- Check the vehicle handbook: The owner's manual will clearly state the engine specifications, including whether or not it is turbocharged.
- Check the VIN or build sheet: The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) or a build sheet can provide detailed information about the original factory specifications.
- Feel the difference: A turbo engine provides a noticeable surge of power when you accelerate, especially compared to a naturally aspirated engine.
What Subaru models have turbo?
Current and recent Subaru models with turbo engines include the WRX, Outback XT, Forester (recent models), Legacy XT, and Ascent. Older models that have been available with turbo engines include certain versions of the Impreza and Legacy GT.
You can watch this video to learn more about the turbocharged Subaru Outback: 1mChasing CarsYouTube · Mar 21, 2023
- WRX: A performance-focused model that features a turbocharged engine.
- Outback XT: Available in various XT trims (like Onyx Edition XT, Wilderness, Limited XT, and Touring XT), featuring a turbocharged engine for increased power.
- Forester: The 2025 model and recent versions offer a turbocharged engine.
- Legacy XT: Available in the Limited XT and Touring XT trims, which come with a turbocharged engine.
- Ascent: A spacious SUV that is available with a turbocharged engine.
- Older Models: Historically, certain Impreza and Legacy GT models were also offered with turbocharging, though these are not available in the current lineup.
How do I know my Subaru engine type?
A Subaru engine typically includes a sticker or engraving that helps identify the motor size. The usual Subaru engine identification locations are the engine block or the driver's side strut tower. An example of the code you'll find is EJ253ASAFB, and it provides detailed information about your Subaru's engine.
