Which subarus have the EJ22 engine?
The EJ22 2.2-liter engine was most commonly found in late-1990s Subaru Legacy and Outback models, with some appearances in other trims and markets. Availability varied by region and model year, so checking the engine code on the vehicle is essential for certainty.
Below we explain the EJ22’s role in Subaru’s lineup and then identify the primary models that used this engine, along with notes on regional differences and how to confirm exactly which engine is in a given car.
What is the EJ22 engine?
The EJ22 is a 2.2-liter horizontally opposed (boxer) engine within Subaru’s EJ family. It was produced in various configurations (including DOHC and SOHC variants) and was most widely deployed as a naturally aspirated 2.2L powerplant during the 1990s. In different markets, the EJ22 appeared in different trims of the same model line, so exact specs and suffix codes can vary by country and year.
Which Subaru models used the EJ22?
The following list highlights the primary models and configurations where the EJ22 was commonly found. The EJ22 powered many non-turbo, mid-range trims of these models during the 1990s, with regional differences in availability.
- Subaru Legacy (mid-1990s to late-1990s in many markets) — the 2.2L EJ22 was a standard non-turbo option in several Legacy sedan and wagon variants.
- Subaru Outback (1990s, as the Legacy wagon variant) — many Outback models used the EJ22 2.2L engine in North American and other markets during the same era.
- Subaru Impreza (mid- to late-1990s, depending on market) — some base/trims of the Impreza offered the EJ22 2.2L as an alternative to other engine options.
In practice, the exact applicability of the EJ22 depended on regional market offerings and model year. If you’re evaluating a specific car, verify the engine code on the engine block (for example, EJ22D, EJ22E, etc.) and cross-check with the vehicle’s VIN or service documentation.
Notes on variants and regional differences
The EJ22 family included several variants across different regions and configurations. While the 2.2L engine was the core in many markets, some locales used slightly different suffix codes or paired the 2.2L with different intake/valvetrain setups. Turbocharged engines in Subaru lines typically used other displacements (such as EJ20 family), so EJ22 turbo variants are not common in the same way as the naturally aspirated 2.2L engines. Always confirm the exact engine code on the engine plate for precise identification.
How to verify a specific car's engine
To be certain a given Subaru has the EJ22, use these steps:
- Check the engine block for the exact engine code (e.g., EJ22D, EJ22E). The code is usually stamped on a machined pad near the intake manifold or on the side of the engine block.
- Consult the vehicle’s VIN and corresponding build sheet or factory brochure to confirm the original engine option by trim and market.
- If in doubt, ask a Subaru-certified technician to decode the engine type from the ECU or service records.
Conclusion: The EJ22 served as a workhorse 2.2L engine for several 1990s Subaru Legacy/Outback configurations and, to a lesser extent, certain Impreza trims. Market-specific availability means you should verify the exact engine code on any car you’re considering.
Summary
The EJ22 is a 2.2-liter boxer engine best known for powering many 1990s Legacy and Outback models, with some Impreza variants in certain regions. Because regional options varied, always confirm the engine code on the block and cross-check with the vehicle’s documentation to identify the exact EJ22 configuration in a given car.
