Is WRX 6 cylinder?
No. The Subaru WRX is not a six-cylinder model. In its current generation it uses a turbocharged four-cylinder boxer engine, most recently a 2.4-liter flat-four delivering about 271 horsepower, with a six-speed manual available and a CVT option in certain configurations.
Current engine and configuration
To understand what powers today’s WRX and how it differs from six-cylinder setups in other brands or older Subarus, here is a concise look at the latest specifications and design choices.
- Engine: 2.4-liter turbocharged flat-four (boxer) engine, code FA24DIT
- Power: approximately 271 hp (varies by model year and market)
- Torque: about 258 lb-ft
- Drivetrain: Subaru Symmetrical all-wheel drive
- Transmission options: six-speed manual is common on many trims; CVT available in some configurations
These details show that the WRX remains a four-cylinder platform, optimized for a balanced combination of turbocharged performance and all-wheel-drive handling.
Historical context
Historically, Subaru has offered six-cylinder engines in some non-WRX models, such as certain Legacy and Outback variants, but the WRX lineup has consistently used four-cylinder powertrains in its modern iterations. The high-performance STI variant has also used turbocharged four-cylinder engines, not a six-cylinder.
What to know if you’re shopping
If a six-cylinder engine is a priority, you won’t find it in the current WRX lineup. You may need to look at older models or alternative Subaru lines, or consider other brands that offer six-cylinder turbo options. For WRX enthusiasts, the appeal lies in the four-cylinder turbocharged setup and the AWD chassis.
Summary
The WRX is not a six-cylinder. It relies on a turbocharged four-cylinder boxer engine in the current generation, providing strong performance with all-wheel drive. While Subaru has offered six-cylinder engines in other models in the past, they are not part of the WRX lineup today. For buyers seeking more cylinders, exploring older models or different brands may be necessary.
