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What kind of engine is in the Subaru Forester?

The Subaru Forester, a popular compact SUV, is known for its reliable and efficient engine. At the heart of the Forester is a Boxer engine, a unique design that sets Subaru apart from other automakers.


What is a Boxer Engine?


A Boxer engine, also known as a flat engine, is a type of internal combustion engine in which the pistons move horizontally, opposed to the more common vertical arrangement. In a Boxer engine, the pistons move in opposite directions, creating a "boxer" motion that is inherently balanced, reducing vibrations and providing a smooth driving experience.


Subaru has been using Boxer engines in its vehicles for decades, and the Forester is no exception. The Forester's engine is a 2.5-liter, four-cylinder Boxer engine that delivers a respectable 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque.


Benefits of the Boxer Engine



  • Balanced Design: The Boxer engine's horizontally opposed pistons create a natural balance, reducing vibrations and providing a smoother ride.

  • Low Center of Gravity: The Boxer engine's flat design allows for a lower center of gravity, improving the Forester's handling and stability.

  • Durability: Boxer engines are known for their reliability and longevity, making them a popular choice for Subaru's lineup of vehicles.

  • Efficient Packaging: The Boxer engine's compact design allows for more efficient packaging, freeing up space in the engine bay for other components.


The Subaru Forester's Boxer engine is a key component of the vehicle's overall performance and reliability. Its unique design and inherent balance make it a standout feature in the compact SUV segment.

How long will a Subaru Forester engine last?


200,000 miles
How long do Subaru Forester engines last? With the right preventive maintenance services and care, Subaru Forester engines can last a long time, some reaching 200,000 miles or even more.



What is the difference between Subaru 2.0 and 2.5 engine?


The Crosstrek's 2.5-liter flat-four engine produces 182 horsepower and 178 pound-feet of torque, increases of 30 horsepower and 33 pound-feet compared to the 2.0-liter. Sharp-eyed Subaristi will note an additional two pound-feet compared to the previous 2.5-liter.



What engine does the Subaru Forester use?


All petrol-variants share a 2.5-litre, four-cylinder boxer-petrol engine (136kW/239Nm).



Which Subaru engine is best?


Considered "bulletproof," the EJ22 is often called Subaru's most reliable engine. It's a 2.2-liter four-cylinder boxer engine, and the estimated life of the EJs is over 250,000 miles, with many drivers reporting over 500k.



Why are Subaru Foresters not selling?


The popular Forester's five-month drop in sales performance has a lot to do with the economy. Many seniors look at the Forester and compare the price with the Crosstrek and can get an excellent all-wheel-drive vehicle for about $5,000 less—and even more so on the upper Touring trim level.



Do all Subaru Foresters have the same engine?


The X and XS models feature a 2.5 L SOHC EJ253 engine, while the XT model features a 2.5 L turbocharged DOHC engine. Both engines have timing belt (camshaft). The XT model uses the same Mitsubishi Motors TD04 turbocharger used in the Subaru Impreza WRX. All Forester 2.5 L engines are of the interference engine type.



What is the life expectancy of a Subaru 2.5 engine?


200,000 miles
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.



What are the disadvantages of boxer engines?


Boxer Engine Disadvantages

  • Its wide size makes it somewhat more difficult to work on, especially in tight quarters.
  • As a result of its position, maintenance and repairs are usually higher in cost, in part because it takes mechanics longer to do routine work, like changing spark plugs.



Do Subaru Foresters have engine problems?


With a loud and creaking engine and excessive oil consumption, the Subaru Forester has its share of problems that can throw displeasing halts in your way. We have compiled the Subaru Forester's worst years and its critical problems here. Significant gasket head problems in 2001 and before, with 1998 being the worst.



What is the weakness of a Subaru Forester?


Excessive oil consumption, unexpected acceleration, engine stalling while driving, the check engine light staying on, engine reluctance when accelerating, and the engine catching fire or malfunctioning are among the top engine issues expressed by 2015 Forester owners.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.