Segment:
Compact Crossover SUV
Positioning:
Known for its standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, practicality, and off-road capability.
Competitors:
Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Nissan Rogue, Mazda CX-5, Ford Escape
Standard AWD:
Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system across all trims.
Horizontally Opposed Engine:
Subaru's signature Boxer engine for a lower center of gravity and improved balance.
Visibility:
Excellent outward visibility due to large windows and raised seating position.
Cargo Capacity:
Generous cargo space with a user-friendly tailgate.
Engine Coverage:
2.5L Naturally Aspirated (EJ253), 2.5L Turbocharged (EJ255)
Transmission Coverage:
5-Speed Manual Transmission (TY754VB/VC), CVT (Lineartronic)
Drivetrain Coverage:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD)
Body And Chassis Coverage:
Body panels, frame, suspension, steering, brakes, exhaust, fuel system
Electrical Coverage:
Wiring diagrams, diagnostics, ECUs, sensors, lighting, audio system
Type:
Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual
Engine Mechanical:
Engine overhaul, cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing belt/chain, seals, gaskets
Engine Electrical:
Ignition system, fuel injection, sensors (MAF, O2, knock, etc.), ECU diagnostics, starting and charging systems
Transmission And Drivetrain:
Manual transmission repair, CVT service, differential service, driveshafts, AWD system maintenance
Suspension And Steering:
Front and rear suspension component replacement, alignment procedures, power steering system repair
Brakes:
Brake system diagnostics, disc brake service (pads, rotors), caliper overhaul, ABS system troubleshooting
Body And Interior:
Door mechanisms, interior trim removal/installation, glass replacement, body panel repair
Heating And Air Conditioning:
HVAC system diagnostics, refrigerant service, component replacement
Electrical And Electronics:
Lighting, wipers, horn, power windows, central locking, SRS (Airbag) system
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic fault codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting guides
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major systems
Diagnostics:
Diagnostic procedures for engine, transmission, ABS, airbags, and other electronic systems
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical specifications
Depth:
Comprehensive - from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds
Engine 1 Name:
2.5L DOHC 16-Valve Boxer Engine (EJ253)
Engine 1 Displacement:
2457 cc
Engine 1 Bore X Stroke:
99.5 mm x 79.0 mm
Engine 1 Compression Ratio:
10.7:1
Engine 1 Horsepower:
170 hp @ 5800 rpm
Engine 1 Torque:
174 lb-ft @ 4100 rpm
Engine 2 Name:
2.5L DOHC 16-Valve Turbocharged Boxer Engine (EJ255)
Engine 2 Displacement:
2457 cc
Engine 2 Horsepower:
265 hp @ 5200 rpm (XT Trim)
Engine 2 Torque:
247 lb-ft @ 2000-5200 rpm (XT Trim)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 Octane minimum recommended, 91 Octane recommended for XT)
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent silicate-free, long-life coolant
Transmission Type 1:
5-Speed Manual Transmission (TY754VB/VC)
Transmission Type 2:
Lineartronic Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)
AWD System:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (Mechanical AWD for manual, Electronic AWD for CVT)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil
Cvt Fluid:
Subaru CVT Fluid (K0014YA000)
IIHS Rating:
Top Safety Pick (2012)
NHTSA Overall Rating:
4/5 Stars (overall)
Electronic Stability Control:
Standard (Vehicle Dynamics Control)
Traction Control:
Standard
Airbags:
Front, front-side, and side-curtain airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point height-adjustable front seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters, rear 3-point seatbelts
Audio System:
Optional touch-screen infotainment system with navigation, Bluetooth, and rearview camera integration.
Connectivity:
USB port, auxiliary audio input, Bluetooth hands-free calling and audio streaming.
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control.
Rearview Camera:
Available on higher trims or as an accessory, integrated with infotainment system.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.
Spark Plug Replacement Na:
Every 105,000 miles (168,000 km) (Iridium type).
Transmission Fluid Change Cvt:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 36 months.
Timing Belt Replacement:
NA (this generation uses a timing chain)
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 0W-20 Synthetic (API SN or higher)
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.8 US quarts (4.5 liters) with filter for 2.5L NA.
Coolant Capacity:
7.2 US quarts (6.8 liters) for 2.5L NA.
Head Gaskets:
Less common on this generation's EJ253 compared to earlier models, but always a potential concern with Subaru EJ engines. Check for coolant leaks or white smoke.
Cvt Longevity:
While generally reliable, adhering strictly to CVT fluid change intervals is crucial for longevity. Some early CVT models experienced issues, though the 2012 is generally considered robust.
Oil Consumption:
Some EJ25 engines can exhibit minor oil consumption, especially at higher mileage. Regular oil level checks are recommended.
Manufacturer Origin:
Japan
Brand Focus:
Known for horizontally opposed ('Boxer') engines and Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive systems.
First Generation Debut:
1997
Fourth Generation Debut:
2012 (for the 2013 model year in most markets, but this manual specifically covers the 2012 model year designation)
Design Changes 2012:
Marked the introduction of the fourth generation, featuring a new chassis, updated styling, and improved interior.
Manufacturing Locations:
Japan (Gunma Plant)