Which Subaru has a 6 cylinder engine?

In today’s lineup, Subaru does not offer a six-cylinder engine. Historically, however, several models used flat-6 powertrains, including the SVX, Tribeca, and certain Legacy/Outback variants.

This article surveys Subaru’s six-cylinder era, identifies the models that used six cylinders, and explains why the company moved toward four-cylinder engines in its current lineup.

Six-cylinder Subarus in history

The following models illustrate Subaru's use of six-cylinder engines across its history. Availability varied by year and market.

• Subaru SVX (1992–1997): 3.3-liter flat-6 engine (EG33).


• Subaru Tribeca (2005–2014): 3.0-liter flat-6 engine (EZ30).


• Subaru Legacy/Outback (late 2000s–early 2010s): 3.6-liter flat-6 engine (EZ36) available in higher trims or certain years.

These six-cylinder configurations spanned distinct eras for Subaru, with the flat-6 layout chosen for smoothness and power delivery in larger or performance-oriented models. The exact years and trim availability varied by market.

Are six-cylinder Subarus available today?

No. As of the 2024–2025 model years, Subaru does not offer a factory six-cylinder engine in its new vehicles. The brand now relies on four-cylinder powertrains, including naturally aspirated and turbocharged options, to balance efficiency and performance. For buyers seeking six-cylinder power from Subaru today, the options are limited to used models from the earlier era described above.

Summary

Subaru’s six-cylinder era included notable models such as the SVX, Tribeca, and certain Legacy/Outback variants powered by flat-6 engines. In recent years, Subaru shifted entirely to four-cylinder engines in new vehicles, prioritizing efficiency and emissions considerations. The legacy of the six-cylinder Subarus remains on the used market for enthusiasts and collectors.

Is the Subaru 3.6 engine any good?

The 3.6 has adequate power that it's a non-issue but you'll never confuse it with a fast vehicle either... It's just the bare minimum to drive around and not want to bang your head into the steering wheel. The EZ36 is generally regarded as one of the best engines Subaru have produced.

Does the Subaru Forester have a 6 cylinder engine?

No, the Subaru Forester does not come in a 6-cylinder engine; it has exclusively used a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder boxer engine in recent model years. The 6-cylinder engine is offered in other Subaru models, such as the larger Outback and Legacy, but not the Forester. 

• Forester engine: The Forester is equipped with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder horizontally opposed "boxer" engine. 
• Other models: Subaru's 6-cylinder engines are found in larger vehicles like the Outback and Legacy, though higher trims of the Outback may offer a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder instead. 
• Historical context: Some older, high-performance versions of the Forester (like a 2004 model with a turbocharged 2.5L) had more power than some 6-cylinder engines, but the standard models did not have 6 cylinders. 

Do any Subarus have 6 cylinder engines?

Yes, Subaru has produced several models with six-cylinder engines, though they are no longer in production and are now only available on the used market. These were flat-6 boxer engines used in vehicles like the XT6, Alcyone SVX, Outback, Legacy, and Tribeca. 
History of Subaru's 6-cylinder engines

• ER27: Subaru's first 6-cylinder engine, a 2.7L engine used in the 1988–1991 Subaru XT6. 
• EG33: A 3.3L engine that replaced the ER27, found in the Subaru Alcyone SVX from 1991–1996. 
• EZ Series: This is the most recent series, with the EZ30 and EZ36 models. 
  • The EZ30 was used in the Subaru Legacy and Outback as an optional engine. 
  • The EZ36, a 3.6L engine, was also used in the Legacy and Outback, and was the standard and sole option in the Subaru Tribeca. 

Availability

• Subaru ceased production of its 6-cylinder engines in 2019, with the 2019 Outback and Legacy being the last models to feature one. 
• You can find these 6-cylinder models on the used car market. Some examples include the Subaru Liberty (known as the Legacy in some markets) and Outback from various model years. 

Is it better to have a 4 cylinder or 6-cylinder?

Neither is definitively better; a 6-cylinder engine generally offers more power and smoothness, making it ideal for performance or heavy-duty applications, while a 4-cylinder is usually better for fuel efficiency and is more common in smaller, cost-effective cars. The "better" engine depends on what you prioritize, such as power, fuel economy, or cost. 
This video explains the pros and cons of both V6 and 4-cylinder engines: 46s4 Old School Car GuysYouTube · Jul 15, 2024
6-cylinder engines

• Pros: More horsepower and torque, better for towing and hauling, generally smoother and quieter operation. 
• Cons: Worse fuel economy, higher cost to purchase and maintain. 
• Best for: Performance vehicles, SUVs, trucks, and drivers who need to tow or who prioritize a smoother, quieter ride. 

4-cylinder engines

• Pros: Better fuel economy, lower purchase cost, smaller and lighter. 
• Cons: Less power and torque, can feel less smooth than a 6-cylinder, especially without turbocharging. 
• Best for: Commuting, city driving, and budget-conscious buyers who want better fuel efficiency. 

This video compares the performance and fuel efficiency of both engines: 59sScotty KilmerYouTube · May 9, 2020
The role of turbocharging

• Increased power: Modern 4-cylinder engines are often turbocharged, which can give them power outputs comparable to naturally aspirated 6-cylinders. 
• Compromise: A turbocharged 4-cylinder can provide a good balance of power and fuel efficiency, though it may not offer the same level of smoothness as a 6-cylinder. 

You can watch this video to learn how turbochargers improve the performance of 4-cylinder engines: 17sForged 4x4YouTube · Sep 14, 2025