What engine does Subaru Ascent use?
The Subaru Ascent is powered by a 2.4-liter turbocharged flat-four engine, delivering about 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque.
In more detail, this engine belongs to Subaru’s modern boxer engine family and uses direct injection with a twin-scroll turbocharger. It is paired with Subaru’s Lineartronic continuously variable transmission (CVT) to balance strong mid‑range performance with daily efficiency.
Engine specifications
Below are the core technical figures that define the Ascent’s power unit:
- Displacement: 2.4 liters
- Configuration: Horizontally opposed four-cylinder (boxer)
- Turbocharger: Twin-scroll turbocharger
- Fuel system: Direct gasoline injection
- Power: 260 horsepower at 5,600 rpm
- Torque: 277 lb-ft from 2,000 rpm
- Transmission: Lineartronic CVT (continuously variable transmission)
- Fuel requirements: Premium unleaded recommended for maximum performance; regular fuel can be used with reduced output
These specifications illustrate Subaru’s approach to delivering robust acceleration and towing capability in a family-friendly SUV, while maintaining efficiency through a compact boxer design and advanced turbocharging.
Context and performance notes
As of the latest model years, the 2.4-liter turbocharged boxer engine remains the standard powertrain for the Ascent, and it shares the same basic configuration with other mid-size Subaru models that offer the 2.4L turbo option. Engine development focuses on strong low- and mid-range torque to assist highway merging and overtaking, while the turbocharging and direct injection help optimize efficiency for everyday driving.
Technical background
The engine is part of Subaru’s newer FA/FB family of boxer motors, commonly referenced in market materials as the 2.4-liter turbo (often noted with FA24F in technical disclosures). This family emphasizes a horizontally opposed layout, turbocharging, and direct fuel injection to balance power with efficiency across various trims and model years.
Performance context for buyers
For buyers evaluating the Ascent, the 2.4-liter turbo offers a blend of strong mid-range torque and comfortable highway performance. The CVT pairing aims to smooth out acceleration and support fuel efficiency on daily commutes and long trips, while still delivering confident towing capability when equipped accordingly.
Summary
The Subaru Ascent uses a 2.4-liter turbocharged flat-four engine that produces about 260 hp and 277 lb-ft of torque, paired with a Lineartronic CVT. This setup reflects Subaru’s focus on practical power, a boxer-engine philosophy, and a balance between performance and efficiency for a family-oriented SUV.
What engine does the Subaru Ascent use?
The Subaru Ascent uses a 2.4-liter turbocharged SUBARU BOXER® 4-cylinder engine that produces 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque across all trim levels. This engine is paired with a Lineartronic® CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) and comes standard with Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. It has a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds.
This video provides an overview of the Subaru Ascent engine, including its features and performance: 58sAutomotive Anonymous YouTube · Feb 15, 2025
Engine specifications
- Type: 2.4L turbocharged SUBARU BOXER® 4-cylinder
- Horsepower: 260 hp
- Torque: 277 lb-ft
- Transmission: Lineartronic® CVT with 8-speed manual mode
- Drivetrain: Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive
Performance features
- Towing Capacity: Up to 5,000 pounds
- X-MODE®: Enhances performance on low-friction surfaces by optimizing engine output and the all-wheel drive system
- Hill Descent Control: Included on most trims for controlling descent on steep inclines
- Trailer Stability Assist: Helps to keep the trailer stable while towing
What Subaru has a Toyota engine?
Subaru BRZ
Notably, the Subaru BRZ and Toyota 86 sports cars are joint efforts, blending Subaru's boxer engine expertise with Toyota's engineering and marketing strengths.
Does the Subaru Ascent have a good engine?
The Ascent is a very functional, easy-to-live-with three-row midsized SUV. Its turbocharged four-cylinder engine delivers ample power in daily driving and gets 22 mpg overall. The jumpy initial takeoff takes some getting used to, however.
Is the Subaru 2.4 turbo a good engine?
Yes, the Subaru 2.4L turbo engine is generally considered a good engine, offering significantly more power than the naturally aspirated versions while being built to be reliable and overbuilt. It provides better acceleration, towing capacity, and performance at high altitudes, but it is also more complex than a non-turbo engine and has lower fuel economy. Proper maintenance, such as more frequent oil changes, can help ensure long-term reliability.
Advantages of the 2.4L turbo engine
- More power and torque: It provides a significant increase in torque, making it feel much more responsive than the 2.5L non-turbo engine. This is especially beneficial for passing and merging.
- Stronger performance: The engine is more capable in situations that require more power, like climbing hills or towing.
- Built for reliability: It's considered an overbuilt engine, designed to be more reliable than older Subaru turbo engines, addressing some of the issues seen in previous generations.
- Can use regular fuel: The engine is designed to run on 87 octane regular gasoline.
Potential considerations for the 2.4L turbo engine
- Fuel economy: The turbo engine generally gets slightly lower fuel economy compared to the 2.5L non-turbo.
- Complexity: Turbocharged engines are more complex than naturally aspirated ones, which can mean more potential maintenance points, such as oil supply bolts and gasket leaks.
- Maintenance: To maximize longevity, frequent oil changes (every 3,750 to 5,000 miles) are recommended to prevent potential oil-related issues.
Verdict
The Subaru 2.4L turbo is a good engine if you prioritize power and performance. It's a reliable and capable engine, especially when you perform diligent maintenance. If your priority is the lowest possible maintenance complexity and fuel cost, the 2.5L naturally aspirated engine might be a better fit.
