What kind of engine does a Subaru Baja have?
The Subaru Baja uses a 2.5-liter horizontally opposed four-cylinder engine from Subaru’s EJ-series, and it is naturally aspirated (not turbocharged).
Launched for model years around 2003–2006, the Baja is a compact pickup-crossover that shared its powertrain with contemporary Subaru wagons and crossovers such as the Legacy and Outback. The standard engine is a 2.5L flat-four (EJ25) that typically produces about 165 horsepower and 166 lb-ft of torque. In some late-year revisions, intake timing adjustments (AVCS) offered a modest bump in throttle response and efficiency, but no factory turbo option was available for the Baja. Transmission choices included a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic, and the engine is generally regarded as reliable within Subaru’s 2.5L lineup. Regular maintenance is important, as the EJ25 family has well-known head-gasket concerns in certain setups.
Engine configuration and specs
Key details about the Baja’s engine configuration and performance.
- Engine type: horizontally opposed (boxer) four-cylinder
- Displacement: 2.5 liters (approximately 2,457 cc)
- Valvetrain: dual overhead camshafts (DOHC); variable valve timing available on some years
- Turbocharger: none (naturally aspirated)
- Power output: typically around 165 hp; some late revisions note up to about 173 hp in certain markets
- Torque: approximately 166 lb-ft (225 Nm)
- Transmission options: five-speed manual or four-speed automatic (4EAT)
- Platform compatibility: shared with Subaru Legacy/Outback models of the era
In summary, the Baja’s engine profile centers on Subaru’s dependable 2.5L flat-four, with no factory turbo offered and a straightforward pairing to manual or automatic transmissions.
Performance notes by year
What buyers could expect in terms of output and refinements across production years.
- 2003–2004: commonly cited as 165 hp and 166 lb-ft of torque for US-market Baja models
- 2005–2006: minor refinements like AVCS in some configurations; official output generally remained in the same range (with occasional reports of slight bumps in certain markets)
- Overall: power delivery is typical of a mid-2000s non-turbo Subaru 2.5L engine, prioritizing reliability and broad torque across the rpm band
These notes reflect the Baja’s engine within Subaru’s EJ25 family, emphasizing a conservative, reliable setup rather than high performance.
Maintenance and reliability considerations
- Regular timing-belt intervals and timing-belt kit replacement per Subaru recommendations
- Coolant system upkeep is important to prevent overheating and potential head-gasket issues
- Head-gasket concerns are a known risk for many EJ25 engines; ensure inspection and preventative maintenance
- Use manufacturer-recommended fluids and follow service intervals for spark plugs, filters, and seals
Proper upkeep helps mitigate common EJ25 vulnerabilities and keeps the Baja’s boxer engine running smoothly.
Summary
The Subaru Baja is powered by a 2.5-liter horizontally opposed four-cylinder (EJ25) engine that is naturally aspirated and not turbocharged. Producing about 165 hp and 166 lb-ft of torque (with minor late-year refinements pushing some outputs higher in certain markets), the engine is paired with either a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic. While renowned for reliability within its class, the EJ25 requires routine maintenance to address known head-gasket and cooling-system considerations. Overall, the Baja’s powertrain reflects Subaru’s mid-2000s approach to practicality and durability rather than high performance.
Which 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.
Why was Subaru Baja discontinued?
The Baja wqs discontinued due to the factory deciding to make the Camry because it was more profitable.
Is the Subaru Baja reliable?
Customers praise its reliability, with many reporting over 100,000 miles of trouble-free use.
What engine is in the Subaru Baja?
| Subaru Baja | |
|---|---|
| Powertrain | |
| Engine | 2.5 L EJ251 H4 (2003–2004) 2.5 L EJ253 H4 (2005–2006) 2.5 L EJ255 H4 turbo |
| Transmission | 4-speed automatic 5-speed manual |
| Dimensions |
