Segment:
Compact Crossover SUV
Usp:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, Boxer Engine, Practicality, Durability
Competitors:
Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Nissan Xterra, Ford Escape
AWD:
Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive on all models
Ground Clearance:
Generous for its class, aiding off-road capability
Visibility:
Excellent outward visibility due to large glass areas
Engine Mechanical:
Yes (EJ25 SOHC, EJ25 DOHC)
Engine Management:
Yes (Fuel Injection, Ignition, Emissions)
Transmission Manual:
Yes (5-Speed) & Automatic (4-Speed)
Drivetrain:
Yes (All-Wheel Drive System, Differentials)
Brakes:
Yes (ABS, Disc/Drum configurations)
Suspension:
Yes (Front MacPherson Strut, Rear Multi-link)
Steering:
Yes (Power Steering System)
Electrical System:
Yes (Wiring Diagrams, Components, ECUs)
HVAC:
Yes (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning)
Body Exterior:
Yes (Panels, Bumpers, Glass)
Body Interior:
Yes (Trim, Seats, Dashboard)
Routine Maintenance:
Yes (Oil changes, filter replacements, tune-ups)
Troubleshooting:
Yes (Diagnostic Flowcharts, Symptom Analysis)
Component Replacement:
Yes (Engine, Transmission, Brakes, etc.)
Diagnostic Procedures:
Yes (OBD-II Codes, Sensor Testing)
Rebuilding Procedures:
Yes (Engine, Transmission overhaul)
Wiring Diagrams:
Yes (Complete, detailed schematics)
Specifications And Tolerances:
Yes (Torques, Clearances, Measurements)
Depth:
Comprehensive (Dealer Level Technician)
Engine Code Na:
EJ251 (2.5L SOHC)
Engine Code DOHc:
EJ253 (2.5L DOHC - later models, less common in this generation base)
Horsepower Sohc:
165 hp @ 5600 rpm (approx.)
Torque Sohc:
166 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (approx.)
Injection Type:
Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Configuration:
Horizontally-Opposed (Boxer) 4-Cylinder
Block Material:
Aluminum Alloy
Head Material:
Aluminum Alloy
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent silicate-free coolant
Transmission Type:
5-Speed Manual
Transmission Type:
4-Speed Automatic (with lock-up torque converter)
AWD System:
Variable torque distribution (manual) / Viscous coupling center differential (automatic)
Manual Trans Fluid:
SAE 75W-90 API GL-5 Gear Oil
Automatic Trans Fluid:
Subaru ATF HP or Dexron III/Mercon equivalent
NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:
4 Stars (1999-2002 models)
NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:
4 Stars (1999-2002 models)
NHTSA Side Impact Front Seat:
5 Stars (1999-2002 models)
ABS:
Standard on most trims
Airbags Front:
Driver and Passenger Airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seatbelts
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/CD player, optional premium sound system.
Navigation:
Not available from factory.
Traction Control:
Not typically available on early models of this generation.
Bluetooth:
Not available from factory.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 3 months (severe service) / 7,500 miles or 6 months (normal service) - refer to manual for specifics
Engine Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed (recommended every 30,000 miles)
Spark Plugs:
Replace every 100,000 miles (Platinum or Iridium)
Timing Belt:
Replace every 105,000 miles or 7 years (critical component for EJ25 engines)
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.5 US quarts (4.3 L) with filter (for 2.5L)
Engine Oil Viscosity:
5W-30
Coolant Capacity:
7.4 US quarts (7.0 L)
Head Gaskets:
Common failure point in EJ25 engines, often requiring replacement. Manual details diagnostic and repair procedures.
Oil Leaks:
Can occur from valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, and rear main seal. Manual provides inspection and replacement steps.
Cvt Failures:
N/A for this generation (CVT not offered).
Suspension Wear:
Control arm bushings, ball joints, and sway bar links can wear over time. Manual details inspection and replacement.
Subaru Philosophy:
Emphasis on All-Wheel Drive, boxer engines, safety, and durability.
First Generation:
Launched in 1997 (Japan), 1998 (North America) as a compact SUV/wagon.
Sf Generation Design:
Cylindrical chassis design, high beltline, wagon-like proportions transitioning to SUV.
Manufacturing Plant:
Gunma Manufacturing Plant, Japan
Car And Driver Alog:
Named to Car and Driver's 10 Best list multiple times for its class.
IIHS Ratings:
Generally received good ratings from IIHS for its class in crashworthiness.
Epa Fuel Economy City:
Approx. 17-19 MPG (Manual), 18-20 MPG (Automatic)
Epa Fuel Economy Highway:
Approx. 21-23 MPG (Manual), 22-24 MPG (Automatic)
