What engine does WRX have?
The current Subaru WRX is powered by a 2.4-liter turbocharged flat-four engine (boxer), delivering about 271 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque.
In the latest generation, which began with the 2022 model year, Subaru moved to a larger turbocharged engine within the FA engine family for the WRX. The engine is paired with all-wheel drive and is offered with a 6-speed manual transmission in markets like the United States. Variations can occur by region and model year, but the 2.4-liter boxer engine is the defining powerplant powering modern WRX sedans.
Current WRX engine (2022–present)
Technical details of the current engine are summarized below:
- Displacement: 2.4 liters
- Configuration: Horizontally opposed (boxer) four-cylinder
- Turbocharged: Yes
- Fuel delivery: Direct injection (turbocharged FA family)
- Power: Approximately 271 horsepower
- Torque: Approximately 258 lb-ft
- Transmissions: 6-speed manual is standard in the U.S. market; a traditional CVT is not offered on the WRX in the United States
- Drivetrain: Symmetrical all-wheel drive (AWD) as standard
These specifications define the current WRX’s powertrain, emphasizing a balance of performance and all-weather capability with a boxer engine layout.
Engine evolution in the WRX through the years
A concise timeline helps illustrate how the WRX’s powerplant has evolved from its early days to the present:
- Early 2000s to mid-2010s: EJ-series turbocharged flat-four engines (various 2.0L and 2.5L configurations) powered the initial WRX and STI models, laying the groundwork for Subaru’s performance focus.
- Mid-2010s: Transition to the FA-series with a 2.0-liter turbo (FA20) powering the WRX, delivering refined efficiency and improved turbo response.
- 2022–present: Move to the 2.4-liter turbocharged flat-four (FA24) in the WRX, delivering higher output (around 271 hp) while maintaining the hallmark boxer setup and all-wheel drive.
The engine history reflects Subaru’s shift toward larger turbocharged boxer engines in pursuit of stronger mid-range torque and modern efficiency, while preserving the WRX’s performance-oriented character.
Notes on market variations
United States vs. other markets
In the United States, the WRX has traditionally emphasized a driving-focused experience, with a six-speed manual transmission available and all-wheel drive standard. Some markets outside the U.S. have offered different transmission options or trims, but the current U.S. WRX aligns with a manual gearbox and the 2.4-liter turbocharged engine as its defining powerplant.
Summary
The WRX’s powertrain has evolved from the turbocharged EJ-series flat-fours of the early era to Subaru’s modern FA-series, culminating in the current 2.4-liter turbocharged flat-four that powers the latest generation. With around 271 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque, paired to AWD and often a manual transmission in the U.S., the WRX remains defined by its distinctive boxer engine and performance-oriented setup.
What kind of engine is in a WRX?
Turbocharged SUBARU BOXER® Engine
2.4-Liter Direct-Injection Turbocharged SUBARU BOXER® Engine
The 2025 WRX features a standard 2.4-liter direct-injection turbocharged SUBARU BOXER engine.
What WRX has the EJ20?
WRX STI S207
WRX STI S207
The S207 used the 2 litre EJ20 engine which was tuned to 241 kW (328 PS; 323 hp) and 318 lb⋅ft (431 N⋅m) of torque.
Which WRX has the FA20 engine?
Subaru FA20 DIT Turbo Short Block Engine For 2015-21 WRX.
What engine does a 2012 WRX have?
A turbocharged, 2.5-liter horizontally opposed four-cylinder is installed beneath the WRX's functional hood scoop, generating 265 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 244 lb-ft. of torque at 4,000 rpm, plenty to motivate the WRX's 3,208 pounds.
