Subaru to Unveil New 4-Cylinder Boxer Engine This Year

Colum Wood
by Colum Wood

For the first time in two decades, Subaru is expected to debut an all-new 4-cylinder boxer engine later this year, which will be used in most models in its lineup to help improve fuel economy.

According to a report by Japan’s Nikkei business daily, the new engine will be between 2.0- and 2.5-liters with improved fuel economy by roughly 10 percent and will be used in everything from the Legacy to the Impreza. First, however, it will launch in the Forester. The new engine is also slated to get a CVT transmission – a notable improvement over the 4-speed auto-box in the Forrester and Impreza.

Subaru has confirmed that a new engine is being prepped to debut but no details have been provided.

It’s possible that the new engine could use both direct-injection and a start-stop system, two technologies that were showcased on the Hybrid Tourer Concept – a hybrid model that Subaru unveiled at last year’s Tokyo Auto Show. Subaru is also expected to deliver a hybrid model in 2012 based on an existing vehicle.

[Source: Automotive News]

Colum Wood
Colum Wood

With AutoGuide from its launch, Colum previously acted as Editor-in-Chief of Modified Luxury & Exotics magazine where he became a certifiable car snob driving supercars like the Koenigsegg CCX and racing down the autobahn in anything over 500 hp. He has won numerous automotive journalism awards including the Best Video Journalism Award in 2014 and 2015 from the Automotive Journalists Association of Canada (AJAC). Colum founded Geared Content Studios, VerticalScope's in-house branded content division and works to find ways to integrate brands organically into content.

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  • Josha Dupere Josha Dupere on Sep 02, 2010

    Can't wait to see what becomes of this. Subaru is one of the few manufacturers to see sales increases during the recession.

  • Tom wagner Tom wagner on Sep 02, 2010

    The anticipation could hurt sales of existing models for now?

    • Colum Wood Colum Wood on Sep 02, 2010

      That's always true. But most car buyers aren't informed enough to know this info. It's incredibly important though. Imagine how mad you'd be if you bought a 2010 Mustang GT instead of the new 2011 with the 5.0-liter.

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