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When did Subaru stop making a V6 Outback?

Subaru has discontinued the V6 version of its popular Outback crossover SUV, focusing instead on more fuel-efficient four-cylinder models. The change took effect in the 2020 model year, marking the end of the V6 Outback after over two decades on the market.


The Rise and Fall of the Subaru Outback V6


The Subaru Outback was first introduced in 1994 as a more rugged, off-road-capable version of the Legacy wagon. For many years, Subaru offered a V6 engine option alongside the standard four-cylinder, providing buyers with more power and towing capacity.


However, as consumer preferences shifted towards better fuel economy and lower emissions, the V6 Outback became less popular. Subaru made the decision to discontinue the V6 variant starting with the 2020 model year, focusing instead on improving the efficiency and performance of the four-cylinder Outback models.


The Current Subaru Outback Lineup


Today, the Subaru Outback is available exclusively with four-cylinder "Boxer" engines, either a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated unit or a 2.4-liter turbocharged option. These engines provide a good balance of power and fuel economy, meeting the needs of most Outback buyers.


Subaru has also introduced new technologies and features to the Outback in recent years, such as improved all-wheel-drive systems, advanced safety features, and a more premium interior design. These updates have helped the Outback remain a popular choice in the midsize crossover segment.


The Impact of the V6 Outback Discontinuation


The discontinuation of the V6 Outback model is part of a broader industry trend towards smaller, more efficient engines. As automakers strive to meet increasingly stringent fuel economy and emissions regulations, the V6 option has become less common across many vehicle segments.


For Subaru Outback buyers, the loss of the V6 may be felt by those who require the additional towing capacity or performance that the larger engine provided. However, the four-cylinder models still offer a compelling blend of capability, efficiency, and value that has made the Outback a long-standing favorite among midsize crossover shoppers.

What year did Subaru have engine problems?


Subaru WRX and WRX STI: 2008-2014 Models
The performance-oriented Subaru WRX and WRX STI from 2008 to 2014 unfortunately did not escape their own set of difficulties. These cars were plagued with engine problems.



Do they make 6 cylinder cars anymore?


Whether it is an electric powertrain or a small-displacement turbocharged engine, automakers are doing more with less or using completely different forms of propulsion. But regardless of where things are going, the V6 engine is still one of the cornerstones of the current automobile market.



Which Subaru Outback has a 6 cylinder engine?


Models available included the base "Outback", the "Outback Limited" which added a sunroof and cloth/leather seats and the "Outback H6" which included the 6-cylinder engine with VDC as described in this article.



Does Subaru still make a V6?


While BMW has abstained from the V6 engine platform because it wouldn't meet its NVH (Noise, Vibrations, and Harshness) standards, Subaru hasn't adopted a V6 engine into its lineup for an entirely different reason that has nothing to do with how V6 engines operate.



Which subarus have flat 6?


You can also find the 3.6-liter Flat-6 Subaru Boxer Engine with 256 horsepower in Subaru Legacy, Outback, Forester, and Tribeca model vehicles.



Which Subaru's have 6 cylinders?


The Subaru XT was the first Subaru to possess a 6 cylinder engine and this was an ER engine. Since then, Subaru has created two other 6 cylinder engine ranges: the EG engine and the EZ engine.



How long will a Subaru Outback 3.6 last?


With regular maintenance and responsible driving, Subaru Outbacks typically last 200,000 to 300,000 miles.



What year did V6 come out?


1950
The first V6 engines were designed and produced independently by Marmon Motor Car Company, Deutz Gasmotoren Fabrik and Delahaye. Engines built after World War II include the Lancia V6 engine in 1950 for the Lancia Aurelia, and the Buick V6 engine in 1962 for the Buick Special.



Is Subaru Outback 2019 4 or 6 cylinder?


Subaru offers the Outback with two engine options and one difficult choice: go with the base 175-hp 2.5-liter four-cylinder and suffer its lackadaisical performance, or shell out significantly more for one of the top two trim levels that give you access to the punchier 256-hp 3.6-liter six-cylinder.



When did Subaru stop using the 3.6 engine?


Starting with the 2020 model year, the six-cylinder EZ36 was dropped as the uplevel engine option for Subaru Legacy and Outback automobiles and instead the premium engine offered was the turbocharged four-cylinder FA24F, which was previously introduced for the 2019 model year as the sole engine option for the Subaru ...


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.