Segment:
Compact Crossover SUV
Usp:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (standard), practical cargo space, robust build
Key Competitors:
Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, Nissan Xterra
Subaru Advantage:
Standard AWD provides superior traction and stability in varied weather conditions
Utility:
High ground clearance and versatile cargo area for outdoor activities
Cost Savings:
Empowers owners to perform routine maintenance and repairs, significantly reducing labor costs
Powertrain:
Engine (2.5L naturally aspirated and turbocharged), transmission (manual and automatic), drivetrain, fuel system, exhaust system
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering, brakes (ABS, power assist), wheels and tires
Electrical:
Engine control, body control, lighting, audio system, power accessories, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), wiring diagrams
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, glass, interior trim, seats, climate control (HVAC), airbags
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, DTC interpretation, electrical system testing
Repair:
Component removal and installation, overhaul procedures, adjustments, calibration
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of Subaru-specific and general automotive tools
Depth:
Expert-level, covering everything from basic fluid checks to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, detailed wiring schematics, and precise torque specifications
Engine Description Na:
2.5-liter horizontally opposed (boxer) SOHC 16-valve flat-four, naturally aspirated
Horsepower Na:
165 hp @ 5,600 rpm
Torque Na:
166 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm
Engine Description Turbo:
2.5-liter horizontally opposed (boxer) DOHC 16-valve flat-four, turbocharged (GT/XT models)
Horsepower Turbo:
210 hp @ 5,600 rpm (GT), 230 hp @ 5,600 rpm (XT)
Torque Turbo:
235 lb-ft @ 3,600 rpm (GT), 235 lb-ft @ 3,600 rpm (XT)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, 87 octane recommended (91+ for turbo models)
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent silicate-free ethylene glycol coolant
Transmission Type:
5-speed manual transmission
Transmission Type:
4-speed automatic transmission with electronically controlled torque converter
AWD System:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive with viscous coupling center differential (manual) or electronically controlled multi-plate clutch (automatic)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear oil (check specific manual for exact Subaru specs)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Subaru ATF HP (High Performance) or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon compatible fluid
Length:
Approx. 175.8 inches (4465 mm)
Width:
Approx. 69.9 inches (1775 mm)
Height:
Approx. 63.0 inches (1600 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 103.0 inches (2616 mm)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 8.0 inches (203 mm)
Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seats:
Approx. 32.0 cubic feet (0.91 m³)
Cargo Volume With Rear Seats Folded:
Approx. 63.0 cubic feet (1.78 m³)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3,250 - 3,550 lbs (1474 - 1610 kg) depending on trim and drivetrain
Towing Capacity:
2,400 lbs (1089 kg)
NHTSA Front Impact:
★★★★☆ (4 stars for driver and passenger)
NHTSA Side Impact:
★★★★★ (5 stars for front and rear passengers)
IIHS Frontal Offset:
Good
Braking:
4-wheel disc brakes, optional ABS
Traction Control:
Standard Symmetrical AWD enhances traction; some models may have additional electronic traction aids
Airbags:
Front dual-stage airbags, optional front side-impact airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seatbelts with pre-tensioners and load limiters
Rollover Protection:
Designed for enhanced occupant protection in rollovers due to low center of gravity and AWD system
Audio System:
Standard CD player with AM/FM stereo, optional premium sound system with subwoofer
Display:
Basic LCD display for clock, radio, and trip information
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control
Auxiliary Input:
No factory auxiliary input; aftermarket solutions may be available.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 3 months (severe driving) / 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months (normal driving) - consult manual for specifics
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months
Spark Plug Replacement:
100,000 miles (160,000 km) for iridium-tipped spark plugs
Engine Oil Capacity Na:
4.7 US quarts (4.4 liters) with filter change (2.5L SOHC)
Engine Oil Spec Na:
API SM or SN, ILSAC GF-4 or GF-5, SAE 5W-30 synthetic or synthetic blend
Engine Oil Capacity Turbo:
4.7 US quarts (4.4 liters) with filter change (2.5L DOHC Turbo)
Engine Oil Spec Turbo:
API SM or SN, ILSAC GF-4 or GF-5, SAE 5W-30 full synthetic (recommended)
Head Gaskets:
While less prevalent on naturally aspirated EJ253 engines than earlier generations, monitoring for coolant leaks and oil consumption is advisable. Turbocharged models are more susceptible if not maintained properly.
Catalytic Converter:
Can degrade over time, especially with high mileage or poor engine maintenance.
Wheel Bearings:
Can wear out, particularly with off-road use or exposure to harsh conditions.
Cv Axles:
Protective boots can tear, leading to grease loss and CV joint damage.
Subaru Identity:
Known for its pioneering work in all-wheel drive technology and horizontally opposed engines, originating from aircraft manufacturing
Forester Concept:
Introduced in 1997 as a 'sport utility wagon' blending car-like handling with SUV utility
Second Generation Launch:
Launched in 2002 for the 2003 model year, the SG generation featured a more substantial SUV-like appearance, increased wheelbase, and refined powertrains.
Manufacturing Location:
Gunma Plant, Japan