What Makes a Subaru a Green Vehicle: PZEV

The Subaru PZEV Engine Explained by Subaru Drive Magazine

PZEV, or Partial Zero Emission Vehicle, is a type of vehicle that Subaru has been offering since the 2004 model ear - in 2,000 miles of driving, PZEV vehicles put out less pollution than mowing your lawn with a gas mower. The California Air Resources Board has even noted that the tailpipe emissions of PZEV-certified vehicles can be cleaner than the outside air in smoggy cities - wow!

To reduce the catalytic converter's performance, a PZEV engine has a finer mesh and higher volume of precious metals involved (platinum, palladium and rhodium), alongside double the effective cleaning surface. This reduces gases in the exhaust exiting the tailpipe.

There is also delayed ignition timing, which aids the converter in heating up to operating temperatures more quickly. This reduces cold-start emissions. The engine's fuel injectors are also tighter, which helps prevent emissions from fuel leakage.

"Bottom line: PZEV vehicles produce the lowest amount of tailpipe (greenhouse) emissions of any gasoline-only engines..." wrote Subaru Drive Magazine. "...In summary, PZEV vehicles allow drivers to reduce their impact 
on the environment without sacrificing performance by delivering 
a win-win combination of advantages: no alternative fuels 
required, safety, a relatively low cost, performance, and immediate environmental benefits."

Vermont requires PZEV-certified engines, as does California, New York, Connecticut, Oregon, Delaware, Pennsylvania, Maine, Rhode Island, Maryland, Massachusetts, Washington and New Jersey.

Need another reason to get a new Subaru? Check out our Why Subaru page, or take a look at our new Subaru inventory here!

All information and images via Subaru and/or Subaru Drive Magazine