What kind of engine is in a Subaru?
Subaru’s hallmark is the boxer engine — a horizontally opposed arrangement with flat-4 or flat-6 cylinders. In recent years, the brand has focused on two main engine families, FA and FB, including turbocharged variants for performance models, while many everyday models use naturally aspirated versions.
The boxer engine: Subaru’s signature design
The defining feature of Subaru’s engineering is the boxer, or horizontally opposed, engine layout. In this design, opposing cylinders lie flat and move in opposite directions. This arrangement helps lower the engine’s center of gravity and, paired with Subaru’s standard symmetrical all-wheel drive, contributes to stability and balanced handling on varied roads.
How it differs from other layouts
Compared with inline or V engines, the boxer’s compact width and low height aid handling and packaging in all-wheel-drive applications. Maintenance considerations vary by generation, with timing components, cooling systems, and head gasket history being common topics for owners of older flat-four designs.
Engine families Subaru uses today
Subaru’s modern lineup centers on two primary engine families, with the older EJ family largely phased out. The following list highlights the core families you’ll encounter in current and recent models.
- FA family: modern four-cylinder engines including 2.0L and 2.4L variants; turbocharged versions appear in higher-performance or higher-trim models.
- FB family: slightly larger four-cylinder engines, typically 2.0L and 2.5L naturally aspirated options used in many mainstream models.
- EJ family: older flat-four/flat-six engines that Subaru has largely retired in favor of FA/FB, though late-model used examples may still be found in some markets or on the used-car market.
These engine families define Subaru’s current lineup, balancing efficiency, power, and the brand’s trademark all-wheel-drive performance.
Current and notable variations
In recent models, Subaru offers a mix of naturally aspirated and turbocharged boxer engines. Turbocharged variants deliver higher power for performance-oriented trims, while naturally aspirated versions emphasize efficiency and daily drivability.
Performance-focused and collaborative models
Turbocharged boxer engines are designed to deliver stronger acceleration while preserving the brand’s signature AWD feel. In certain sport and performance-oriented models, these engines are tuned for higher output, whereas other trims prioritize efficiency and smoothness for everyday driving. Subaru has also collaborated with Toyota on shared platforms, influencing engine design and application across related models such as the BRZ sports coupe, which uses a flat-four configuration.
What to know when buying
If you’re shopping for a Subaru, decide whether you want brisk performance or everyday efficiency. Turbocharged variants offer more power but can entail higher maintenance and fuel use, while naturally aspirated FA/FB engines provide reliable, straightforward operation with strong fuel economy. It’s also wise to check the service history for cooling, timing components, and any head gasket concerns, particularly on older flat-four designs.
Summary
Subaru’s engines are built around the boxer layout—horizontally opposed cylinders—primarily in flat-4 and flat-6 configurations. The current lineup centers on the FA and FB engine families, with turbocharged variants available in performance-oriented models. This design choice, paired with standard symmetrical all-wheel drive, defines Subaru’s distinctive driving dynamics and reliability.
Which Subaru has a 6 cylinder engine?
Subaru models that have featured 6-cylinder engines include the Legacy, Outback, and Tribeca from certain model years, as well as older models like the Alcyone (XT6) and Alcyone SVX. The most recent 6-cylinder models are typically found in the 3.6R versions of the Legacy, Outback, and Tribeca, with the last 6-cylinder engine produced for the 2019 Outback.
| Model | Years with 6-Cylinder Engine |
|---|---|
| Outback | ~2001–2019 |
| Legacy | ~2002–2019 |
| Tribeca | ~2006–2014 |
| Alcyone (XT6 in the U.S.) | 1988–1991 |
| Alcyone SVX | 1991–1996 |
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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.
What type of engine does Subaru use?
Subaru Boxer Engine
For over 45 years Subaru has been solely committed to the Subaru Boxer Engine in ALL of their models. The innovative design is part of Subaru's core DNA.
What is the most common problem with Subaru engines?
One of the most notorious issues plaguing Subaru vehicles is head gasket leaks, particularly in older models with the EJ series engines. These leaks can lead to coolant loss, overheating, and potential engine damage if left untreated.
