What is the Subaru Crosstrek engine 2.0 L 4 cylinder?

The Subaru Crosstrek, a popular compact crossover SUV, is equipped with a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine that delivers a balance of power, efficiency, and reliability. This engine, which is the standard offering across the Crosstrek lineup, is a key component that contributes to the vehicle's versatile performance and off-road capabilities.

Engine Specifications and Performance

The Subaru Crosstrek's 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine produces 152 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque. This engine utilizes Subaru's BOXER design, which features a horizontally opposed cylinder layout that provides a lower center of gravity for improved handling and stability. The engine is paired with either a 6-speed manual transmission or a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), both of which help optimize power delivery and fuel efficiency.

In terms of performance, the Crosstrek's 2.0L 4-cylinder engine provides a responsive and capable driving experience, whether on the highway or navigating off-road terrain. The engine's torque characteristics, combined with the vehicle's standard all-wheel-drive system, allow the Crosstrek to tackle a variety of driving conditions with confidence.

Fuel Efficiency and Emissions

The Subaru Crosstrek's 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine is also known for its impressive fuel efficiency. When equipped with the CVT, the Crosstrek achieves an EPA-estimated 28 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway. This efficiency is further enhanced by Subaru's use of direct fuel injection and other advanced engine technologies.

In addition to its fuel-efficient performance, the Crosstrek's 2.0L 4-cylinder engine also meets stringent emissions standards, making it an environmentally-conscious choice for eco-minded consumers.

Reliability and Durability

Subaru is renowned for the reliability and durability of its vehicles, and the Crosstrek's 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine is no exception. This engine has a proven track record of reliable performance, with many Crosstrek owners reporting long-lasting service from their vehicles. The engine's robust design and Subaru's commitment to quality manufacturing contribute to its reputation for dependability.

Overall, the Subaru Crosstrek's 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine is a versatile and capable powerplant that delivers a balance of power, efficiency, and reliability, making it a key component of the Crosstrek's well-rounded performance and appeal.

What is the difference between the 2.0 L and 2.5 L Crosstrek?

The main differences between the Subaru Crosstrek 2.0 and 2.5 are power and trim level, with the 2.5L engine offering a significant horsepower and torque increase (182 hp, 176 lb-ft) over the 2.0L (152 hp, 145 lb-ft). This translates to better performance, especially when accelerating, while fuel economy is nearly the same between the two. The 2.5L engine is typically found in higher trims like the Sport and Limited, while the 2.0L engine is standard on base and premium trims.
 
This video compares the 2.0L and 2.5L engines in the Subaru Crosstrek: 1mAutomotive Anonymous YouTube · Mar 8, 2024
Power and performance

• 2.5L Engine:
  • Produces 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque. 
  • Provides a more noticeable boost in performance, making the vehicle feel quicker and more responsive, especially when passing or merging. 
• 2.0L Engine:
  • Produces 152 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque. 
  • Can feel sluggish to some drivers, requiring more pressure on the accelerator pedal. 

Fuel economy

• Fuel efficiency is very similar between the two engines.
• 2.5L: Approximately 27 city / 34 highway MPG.
• 2.0L: Approximately 28 city / 33 highway MPG. 

Trim and transmission

• 2.5L Engine:
  • Available on Sport and Limited trims. 
  • Paired exclusively with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). 
• 2.0L Engine:
  • Available on Base and Premium trims. 
  • Mated to a CVT; a manual transmission option was available but has been discontinued. 

Which one should you choose?

• Choose the 2.5L if: You want better acceleration and more power for your money, and your budget allows for a higher trim level. 
• Choose the 2.0L if: You prioritize saving money on the purchase price and are satisfied with adequate, though less powerful, performance for daily driving. 

What year Crosstrek to stay away from?

Years to potentially avoid for the Subaru Crosstrek include the 2016 and 2018 models due to issues like drivetrain vibrations, infotainment problems, and oil consumption. The early years of the first generation, specifically 2013-2015, should also be approached with caution due to common issues like oil consumption and head gasket problems with the 2.5-liter engine. 
Years with more reported issues

• 2016: Has been associated with drivetrain vibrations and faulty infotainment systems. 
• 2018: This model year is known for excessive oil consumption, glitchy technology, and a serious safety concern regarding the rear wheels kicking out, causing fishtailing. 
• 2013-2015: These early models, particularly with the 2.5L engine, are prone to head gasket problems and excessive oil consumption. The 2012 Impreza shared this generation and also had issues with its CVT and oil consumption. 

Other years to consider

• 2017: Generally considered a safer bet with fewer reported issues and recalls. 
• 2019: While some sources suggest avoiding it due to numerous recalls and a significant number of complaints related to the ECM software causing unexpected engine stalls, other owners have reported it as reliable. 
• 2021: This model year has received positive marks for reliability. 
• 2023: This year is often recommended as one of the better choices in the second generation. 

How long will a Subaru 2.0 engine last?

Engine Lifespan: Subaru engines are known for their durability and longevity, with many drivers reporting engines that last well beyond 200,000 miles with proper maintenance. The key to extending the lifespan of your Subaru engine is regular maintenance, including oil changes, fluid checks, and tune-ups.

Which Crosstrek has the best engine?

The best engine for a Subaru Crosstrek is generally the 2.5-liter Boxer engine, which produces 182182182 horsepower and is available on the Sport, Limited, and Wilderness trims. While the base 2.0-liter engine (152152152 hp) is sufficient for city driving, the 2.5-liter provides a much more confident experience, especially for highway merging and passing, with comparable fuel economy. 
This video compares the 2.0L and 2.5L engines in the Subaru Crosstrek: 50sDriven By GearsYouTube · Jun 26, 2024
2.5-liter Boxer Engine 

• Power: 182182182 hp and 176176176 lb-ft of torque. 
• Benefits: A noticeable and worthwhile improvement over the base engine, making highway driving, passing, and merging easier and more responsive. It also adds more capability, especially on the Wilderness trim which has a higher ground clearance and more off-road features. 
• Fuel Economy: Similar to the 2.0-liter engine, with up to 343434 highway MPG. 
• Best for: Drivers who frequently drive on highways, need more passing power, or want better performance for their vehicle. 

You can watch this video to learn more about the performance of the 2.5L engine in the Subaru Crosstrek: 1mAuto Buyers Guide | Alex on AutosYouTube · May 8, 2023
2.0-liter Boxer Engine 

• Power: 152152152 hp and 145145145 lb-ft of torque. 
• Benefits: More affordable and offers slightly better fuel efficiency. 
• Fuel Economy: Up to 333333 highway MPG. 
• Best for: Drivers who primarily drive in the city and are looking to save on the initial purchase price. 

Which one to choose

• If your budget allows, the 2.5-liter engine is the recommended choice due to its significant performance upgrade and comparable fuel efficiency. 
• The 2.0-liter engine is adequate if your driving is mostly around town and you prioritize the lower cost.