Segment:
Mid-size Sedan/Wagon
Key Differentiators:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive standard on all trims, Boxer engine configuration, reputation for durability and safety.
Competitors:
Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Mazda6, Nissan Altima, Ford Fusion.
Engine Options:
2.5L Naturally Aspirated Boxer, 2.5L Turbocharged Boxer (GT trims), 3.6L Naturally Aspirated Boxer (2010-2012, 6-cyl Boxer).
Body Styles:
Sedan, Sport Wagon (prior to 2015 model year revision).
Engine:
2.5L (NA and Turbocharged), 3.6L Boxer Engines
Transmission:
CVT (Lineartronic), 5-Speed Manual, 5-Speed Automatic
Drivetrain:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) System
Suspension:
Front Strut, Rear Multi-link, Stabilizer Bars
Brakes:
Front and Rear Disc Brakes, ABS, EBD, Brake Assist
Steering:
Electric Power Assisted Steering (EPAS)
Electrical:
12V System, Charging System, Ignition, Lighting, Power Accessories, Body Control Module (BCM)
HVAC:
Air Conditioning, Heater, Climate Control
Body And Trim:
Exterior Panels, Interior Trim, Doors, Windows, Seats
Safety Systems:
Airbags, Seatbelts, SRS System
Diagnostics:
OBD-II, DTC Codes, Troubleshooting Flowcharts
Maintenance:
Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plugs, Belts, Hoses, Fluid Checks
Repair:
Engine Overhaul, Transmission Rebuild, Suspension Component Replacement, Brake Service
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Procedures for All Major Systems, Symptom-Based Troubleshooting
Diagnostics:
Component Testing, Wiring Diagrams, Pinouts
Technical Specifications:
Torque Specifications, Clearances, Tolerances, Lubricant Types
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive Electrical Schematics for All Systems
Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical diagnostics and bodywork repair)
Transmission Type 2.5I:
5-Speed Manual
Transmission Type 2.5I Opt:
CVT (Lineartronic) - Introduced 2010
Transmission Type 2.5Gt:
5-Speed Automatic (SportShift)
Transmission Type 3.6R:
5-Speed Automatic (SportShift)
AWD System Type:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive
Cvt Features:
Paddle Shifters (on some trims/model years), Manual Mode simulation
NHTSA Front Crash Driver:
Good (2010-2013 models)
NHTSA Front Crash Passenger:
Good (2010-2013 models)
IIHS Side Impact:
Good (2010-2013 models)
IIHS Roof Strength:
Good (2010-2013 models)
Traction Control:
Standard
Electronic Stability Control:
Standard (Vehicle Dynamics Control)
Airbags:
Front, Side Curtain, Front Side Airbags standard on most trims.
Seatbelts:
3-point ELR seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters.
Head Unit Options:
Base AM/FM/CD stereo, optional touch-screen navigation systems with Bluetooth, USB input.
Display Size:
Varies by trim and option package (e.g., 6.5-inch or 7-inch touchscreens).
Cruise Control:
Standard on all trims.
Rearview Camera:
Optional on some trims, integrated with navigation system.
Bluetooth:
Available on most trims for hands-free calling and audio streaming.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 3.75 months (severe driving), or 7,500 miles or 7.5 months (normal driving), refer to manual for specific conditions. Use synthetic oil.
Engine Air Filter:
Every 15,000 miles or 15 months (severe driving), or 30,000 miles or 30 months (normal driving).
Cabin Air Filter:
Every 15,000 miles or 15 months (severe driving), or 30,000 miles or 30 months (normal driving).
Spark Plugs 2.5L:
Iridium type, 60,000 miles.
Spark Plugs 3.6L:
Iridium type, 60,000 miles.
Engine Oil 2.5L:
SAE 0W-20 (API SN or higher), Synthetic Recommended. Capacity: 4.8 US quarts (4.6 L) with filter.
Engine Oil 3.6L:
SAE 0W-20 (API SN or higher), Synthetic Recommended. Capacity: 6.9 US quarts (6.5 L) with filter.
Coolant:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent long-life coolant. Capacity: Approx. 7.3 US quarts (6.9 L) for 2.5L, 8.5 US quarts (8.0 L) for 3.6L.
Transmission Fluid Cvt:
Subaru CVT Fluid (NS-2 or NS-3 equivalent). Capacity: 5.0 US quarts (4.7 L) for service refill.
Transmission Fluid Auto:
Subaru ATF-HP. Capacity: 4.8 US quarts (4.5 L) for service refill.
Differential Fluid Front:
Subaru Extra-S Gear Oil or API GL-5, SAE 75W-90. Capacity: 1.1 US quarts (1.0 L).
Differential Fluid Rear:
Subaru Extra-S Gear Oil or API GL-5, SAE 75W-90. Capacity: 1.4 US quarts (1.3 L).
Cvt Issues:
Some reports of premature wear or failure, often linked to fluid service intervals and heat management. Manual details proper service procedures.
Head Gasket Issues:
While less prevalent than on earlier EJ series engines, the 2.5L NA engine can still experience head gasket leaks. Manual provides diagnostic and repair procedures.
Turbo Issues 2.5Gt:
Potential for turbocharger wear or failure if oil is not maintained properly. Manual covers turbo inspection and replacement.
Oil Consumption:
Some 2.5L engines may exhibit higher than normal oil consumption, particularly at higher mileage. Manual covers oil consumption testing and engine diagnosis.
Brand Focus:
Subaru is known for its horizontally opposed Boxer engines and standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, emphasizing capability and safety.
Generation Covered:
Fifth Generation (2010-2014 model years). This generation saw a significant redesign with a larger platform, new powertrain options (including CVT), and a shift in styling.
Assembly Location:
Lafayette, Indiana, USA (Subaru of Indiana Automotive, Inc.)
