Subaru to End Combustion Vehicle Sales in Europe by 2028
The automaker will phase out models like the Outback and Forester in Europe after 2027 to shift toward an all-electric lineup.
Updated on Oct. 19, 2026 in Electric Vehicles
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Subaru will discontinue its lineup of combustion-powered vehicles in Europe after 2027. The company is set to transition to a fully battery-electric model range starting in 2028.
Why it matters
The decision is driven by the need to comply with tightening European emissions and safety regulations. By shifting to electric, Subaru avoids the significant costs required to recertify older engines and update existing electrical architectures for safety compliance.
The European Outback currently utilizes a 2.5-liter, 169-horsepower boxer engine, while the mild-hybrid Impreza, Crosstrek, and Forester use a 2.0-liter engine producing 136 horsepower.
The players
Subaru
A Japanese automobile manufacturer known for its signature boxer engine design and symmetrical all-wheel-drive technology.
The details
Subaru will cease European sales of the Outback, hybrid Impreza, Crosstrek, and Forester after 2027. Moving forward, the brand will maintain its presence in the region with the Solterra, Uncharted, and E-Outback models.
Timeline
Subaru introduced the boxer engine in 1966.
Combustion-powered sales in Europe conclude after 2027.
The all-electric transition in Europe begins in 2028.
Roadmap
This transition marks the end of a 60-year era for the brand in Europe, moving away from its legacy boxer engine technology that defined its historical identity. It positions the automaker to prioritize battery-electric vehicle development to remain competitive against rivals in a market shifting away from traditional internal combustion.
European consumers currently relying on combustion-powered Subaru models will see their vehicle options limited to all-electric offerings starting in 2028. Buyers should prepare for potential shifts in maintenance expectations and infrastructure requirements as the brand completes its transition.
The takeaway
Subaru's pivot highlights how regional environmental regulations are compelling manufacturers to abandon decades of engine development in favor of electrification. Customers should evaluate how these model changes will affect their long-term vehicle purchasing and servicing plans in the region.
Further reading
For more on how global automakers are navigating the transition to battery power, visit Electric Vehicles.
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