When is the last time you looked under the hood of your car? Not to check your oil or replace your windshield wiper fluid, but to get to know your engine? Internal combustion engines are very common power sources for modern vehicles, but they all aren’t made the same. Different types of engines have different designs that have their own advantages and disadvantages.
Boxer engines, a less frequent option, stand out from other more popular designs and are a solid choice for drivers who need better handling, balance, and power. Subaru drivers with gasoline or hybrid models need to know the benefits of driving with a SUBARU BOXER® engine and what separates it from the other combustion engines on the market.
What is the Boxer Engine?
Internal combustion engine types are determined based on their configuration. The more popular being the inline and v-line and also the boxer engine. The most obvious difference between a boxer and a V-line or inline engine is the fact that it is a horizontally opposed engine, meaning its cylinders are fixed horizontally respective to its crankshaft. Contrastingly, inline engines have vertically placed pistons, and v-line engines have pistons that are positioned at an angle resembling a “V”. The “boxer” name comes from the pistons that “jab” out from the crankshaft.
Benefits of a SUBARU BOXER® Engine?
Despite its rarity, the boxer engine’s design and placement give it advantages over the other internal combustion engine types. This positioning of the boxer engine cylinders allows for a flat rectangular shaped engine that can sit lower in the vehicle giving a lower center of gravity. This results in greater lateral stability decreased roll when turning corners. This allows drivers to be better at predicting the handling and gives better balance. The horizontal positioning of the cylinders cancels out the force from their movement, balancing the engine and gives smoother acceleration.
Not all combustion engines are built to be compatible with electric batteries, especially older engines or brands who just don’t invest in creating hybrid models. Part of Subaru’s Love Promise includes sustainability and limiting their negative impact on the environment, including providing hybrid and fully electric vehicles. SUBARU BOXER® engines are compatible with electric batteries and are often feature in Subaru’s hybrid models which have limited emissions.
Find Your Next Subaru at Subaru of Macon
Need a car with superior handling from an engine that can get you through any type of weather? Consider choosing a Subaru model with the SUBARU BOXER® engine. Visit our website to check out our new and pre-owned inventory or contact us to schedule a test drive today!
