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The History of the Boxer Engine and Its Used in Subaru Vehicles
February 27 2025

The History of the Boxer Engine and Its Used in Subaru Vehicles

Mark Miller Subaru South Towne Sandy UT

As you search for your next new vehicle, you’ve probably run across the bevy of reliable Subaru cars and SUVs available to drivers in Herriman. One reason these vehicles last so long comes from Boxer engine technology found under the hood of every gasoline-powered Subaru vehicle on Midvale roads.

Find out more details about Boxer engine technology and the Boxer engine’s history with our complete guide from Mark Miller Subaru South Towne. Then, schedule a test drive with our team to experience the engine firsthand.

 

Boxer Engine History Starts in Germany

The Boxer engine’s history goes back to Germany in 1887. That was when Karl Benz, half of the founder of Mercedes-Benz, invented the Boxer engine. It’s called that because the movement of the pistons resembles the motion of a boxer’s fists along a horizontal axis. So, instead of an up-and-down motion, you’ll see a sideways motion.

Porsche then put the Boxer engine in its 356 models in 1937 when the luxury automaker became popular. But then in 1966, Subaru decided to use Boxer engine technology in all of its models, and it still uses them today just like Porsche.

Advantages of Boxer Engine Technology in Subaru Vehicles

The first Boxer engine in history under the hood of a Subaru 1000 produced a compact, 1.0L engine generating 55 hp in 1966. Of course, the engines have gotten bigger and more powerful since then.

Take a look at the advantages of Boxer engine technology in Subaru vehicles:

  • Less vibration because the flat cylinders reduce the influence of vibration on-road behavior.
  • Better transmission of power thanks to the lower central position, the power is transmitted more smoothly and more directly to the wheels.
  • Increased maneuverability and better handling because of the lower center of gravity, giving South Jordan drivers a more comfortable and responsive ride.
  • Better coolant flow due to the low positions of the pistons.
  • Better safety in a head-on collision because engine parts would go lower.

Subaru Boxer Engine Technology Associated With AWD and CVT Transmission

On all gasoline-powered models offered by Subaru, including the Outback, Crosstrek, Forester, and Ascent, the Boxer engine technology is most often connected to its AWD and CVT transmission. These two advances allow Subaru to deliver incredible performance, comfortable driving, and maximum safety in all weather conditions due to better handling.

Test Drive a New Subaru for Sale in Sandy

Ready to get behind the wheel of an AWD Subaru? Contact us or call to schedule a test drive with our team. While you’re here, connect with our finance team if you’re ready to see what kind of loan terms you could get for your purchase.