Subaru BOXER Engine: Complete Guide | Desjardins Subaru

If you're familiar with the brand, you might have already heard about the famous Subaru Boxer engine. But what makes this engine so different from others? Desjardins Subaru presents a complete guide to discover this ingenious technology and its many advantages.

What Makes the Subaru BOXER Engine Unique?

The Boxer engine gets its name from its unique design: its pistons move horizontally and oppositely, performing a face-to-face motion. The pistons are symmetrically arranged at a flat 180-degree angle. They mimic a movement similar to the punches of boxers!

It was the German engineer Karl Benz who invented this in 1897. At Subaru, the development of the first Boxer engine dates back nearly 60 years.

At the time, Subaru's research and development team was convinced that the inherent advantages of this type of engine made it the best choice. A unique solution emerged: using more expensive aluminum, which allowed for a 15% lighter engine block than other engines in the same class!

Thus, in 1966, the Boxer engine was found for the first time at the heart of the Subaru 1000 EA 52. The sedan was then equipped with a 1.0 L engine developing 55 horsepower.

In 2008, the EJ25 turbo engine (the engine of the Subaru Impreza, Forester, Legacy, and Outback) won the title of engine of the year! The Boxer engine with direct injection of the WRX was also cited among Wards' 10 best engines in 2014 and 2016.

Several manufacturers have chosen the simplicity of traditional engines, but not Subaru. Indeed, the manufacturer continues to use this type of engine despite a more complex installation. The result: Subaru engines are unique and renowned for their exceptional driving quality.

What Are the Advantages of Subaru BOXER Engines?

A Lower Center of Gravity

The horizontal arrangement of the pistons gives the engine a low and flat profile, which lowers the center of gravity of the engine and the vehicle itself. When compared to V or inline engines, which are configured vertically, Boxer engines provide better stability in turns, more controlled road behavior, and, consequently, much more driving pleasure.

Sharper Handling

A lowered center of gravity generally means a better driving feel, increased road contact. This results in better cornering stability, more responsive handling, and better avoidance capability. Vehicles equipped with Boxer engines offer both agile and safe road behavior.

Smoother Acceleration

This type of engine is compact, lightweight, and positioned symmetrically and low in the chassis, ensuring smoother and more direct power production. The accelerations are linear and responsive!

Better Performance Efficiency

The pistons move side by side, a naturally better-balanced configuration, so they induce less vibration, generate better performance, and reduce wear on moving parts.

Reduced Vibrations

Due to their horizontal arrangement, each piston movement is countered by an opposing piston, naturally balancing the engine. This unique feature minimizes vibrations, meaning a quieter, more comfortable, and overall more pleasant drive.

Better Power Transfer

Because the engine is aligned with the drive system axis, it results in optimal power transfer. In contrast, many engines have a transverse or perpendicular mounting, requiring additional components to transfer power. The design of Subaru engines simplifies the system and increases efficiency.

What Is the Impact of Such an Engine on Performance and Reliability?

The design of Boxer engines stands out in terms of road behavior and performance, especially when paired with other advanced technologies like the symmetrical all-wheel drive. This combination notably allows for great towing capacities for Subaru SUVs .

As for reliability, the performance efficiency of Subaru engines helps reduce wear on parts, ensuring a longer lifespan. While they do not require more maintenance than other types of engines, they remain complex.

Since they are rarer, it is best to entrust their maintenance and repairs to professionals who know them well. Who better than certified Subaru technicians to take care of a Subaru engine?

Which Models Are Equipped with the Subaru BOXER Engine?

Today, all models offered by Subaru Canada are equipped with Boxer engines, except for the electric SUV Solterra. The Japanese manufacturer has developed a varied range of naturally aspirated or turbo engines.

The Subaru Ascent, Legacy, Outback (optional), and WRX are equipped with a 2.4 L turbocharged engine. To maximize its performance, the WRX uses a twin-scroll turbocharger and a high-efficiency intercooler.

As for the engine of the Subaru Crosstrek and Impreza, you can opt for a 2.0 L or a 2.5 L, both naturally aspirated, for a power of 152 or 182 horsepower respectively.

Does the Subaru BOXER Engine Have a Greener Impact Than Other Traditional Engines?

Yes, and this is particularly true with the latest generation of engines. Thanks to their efficiency, power transfer, and optimal engine power curve, they are capable of producing more power with less fuel than other traditional engines.

Indeed, Subaru has managed to eliminate various types of energy losses over the years to achieve better energy efficiency. As mentioned, these engines are lightweight and reduce the number of components compared to vertical arrangements! This helps reduce the consumption of cars, but also of Subaru SUVs . Subaru is also moving towards even greener solutions, notably with the introduction of the e-Boxer engine , integrating mild hybridization to further optimize efficiency.

In short, the Boxer engine stands out with its unique design, which prioritizes driving pleasure and comfort. Whether you're into sports cars, sedans, or SUVs, enjoy all the benefits of this engine with one of our models and make a great deal with our Subaru offers .

Our Subaru dealership in Quebec near Beauport can provide you with more information and guide you in your choice! We look forward to sharing our passion with you.

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