What size engine is in a 1990 Subaru Loyale?
The typical 1990 Loyale in North America used a 1.8-liter flat-four engine (about 1,839 cc). Some export markets offered a smaller 1.6-liter option. Engine size can vary by market and trim, so it’s best to verify your exact vehicle.
In 1990, Subaru’s Loyale lineup followed the Leone-derived engineering, with engine choices differing by region. This article breaks down the common configurations and shows how to confirm the exact displacement on a specific car.
Engine options by market
Market and trim influenced which engine was installed in the Loyale. The following summarizes the typical configurations you might encounter.
- United States and Canada: 1.8-liter flat-four engine (approximately 1,839 cc). This engine was commonly paired with fuel injection in later 1980s–1990 Loyale models.
- Other markets (Europe, Australia, and certain Asia markets): 1.6-liter flat-four engine (approximately 1,593 cc), with variations that included carbureted or fuel-injected setups depending on the year and model.
In short, the Loyale offered two main displacements in that era: the 1.8L most common in North America and the 1.6L option in several export contexts.
How to confirm your Loyale's engine size
To determine the exact displacement on your specific vehicle, use these steps. Each method helps verify the engine size when documentation isn’t clear.
- Inspect the engine block and timing cover area for a stamped engine size (for example “1.8L” or “1.6L”). This stamp is commonly located near the top of the block or on the timing belt cover.
- Check the under-hood emission label or the vehicle’s service plate, which sometimes lists the engine displacement and engine code.
- Refer to the VIN and build sheet. Some Subaru service resources or VIN lookup tools can indicate the engine family/displacement associated with that VIN, especially when cross-checked with model year and market.
If you’re unsure, a local Subaru dealer or a trusted mechanic can decode the engine size for you using the VIN and a service bulletin or parts catalog.
Summary
The 1990 Subaru Loyale most often carried an 1.8-liter flat-four engine in North American markets, with a 1.6-liter option seen in some export variants. To know your exact displacement, check for a stamped size on the engine or review the hood/engine bay labels, consult the service manual, or have a dealer verify via the VIN.
How much is a 1990 Subaru Legacy worth?
The value of a used 1990 Subaru Legacy ranges from $725 to $5,267, based on vehicle condition, mileage, and options. Get a free appraisal here.
How much is a 1991 Subaru Loyale worth?
The value of a used 1991 Subaru Loyale ranges from $696 to $4,272, based on vehicle condition, mileage, and options. Get a free appraisal here.
What kind of engine is in a Subaru Legacy?
The Subaru Legacy has offered a range of engines, but recent models typically feature a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter 4-cylinder boxer engine or a more powerful, turbocharged 2.4-liter 4-cylinder boxer engine. Older models have included a 3.6-liter 6-cylinder boxer engine.
You can watch this video to learn about the history of Subaru Legacy engines: 55sDonutYouTube · Apr 16, 2020
Current and recent engines
- 2.5-liter 4-cylinder: This is the standard, naturally aspirated engine, producing around 182 horsepower in recent models.
- 2.4-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder: This is an optional, more powerful engine found in higher trims like the Sport and Touring XT, delivering approximately 260 horsepower.
Older and past engines
- 3.6-liter 6-cylinder: Previously offered in models like the 3.6R, this engine produced 256 horsepower.
- 2.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder: Higher-performance trims in previous generations, such as the 2.5 GT, came with a turbocharged 2.5-liter boxer engine.
This video demonstrates the engine removal process for an older Subaru Legacy: 58sValley Mobile AutomotiveYouTube · Jun 5, 2025
Engine technology
- Boxer design: Like other Subaru engines, the Legacy uses a horizontally opposed "boxer" layout, which places the cylinders on opposite sides of the crankshaft.
- Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT): Most modern Legacy models come equipped with a CVT, although some older models or specific markets offered a manual transmission.
- All-Wheel Drive (AWD): Subaru's symmetrical all-wheel drive system is a standard feature on all Legacy models.
What engine does a 1992 Subaru Loyale have?
1.8 L
Engine
| Base engine size | 1.8 L |
|---|---|
| Cylinders | Flat 4 |
| Base engine type | Gas |
