Segment:
Mid-size sedan and wagon, often favored for its All-Wheel Drive capability and practicality.
Key Competitors:
Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Mazda6, Ford Fusion, Volkswagen Passat
Selling Points:
Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, Boxer engine configuration, comfortable ride, practical interior, good safety ratings.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, engine management, fuel system, exhaust system, ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system
Drivetrain:
Manual transmission, automatic transmission (including Lineartronic CVT on some models), transfer case, differentials (front, center, rear), drive shafts, axles
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (including ABS/VDC), wheels and tires
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instruments and controls, wipers and washers, climate control system, audio system, power windows/locks/mirrors, SRS airbags, immobilizer system
Body:
Exterior body panels, interior trim, doors, windows, roof, seats, bumpers, body sealing
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement
Repair:
Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement, electrical component diagnosis and repair, body panel repair
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), sensor testing, component testing, wiring diagrams, flowcharts
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized Subaru tools required for specific repair procedures
Level:
Comprehensive: covers basic maintenance to complete engine/transmission overhauls and advanced electrical diagnostics.
Engine Options:
2.5L EJ253 SOHC (Naturally Aspirated), 2.5L EJ255 DOHC Turbocharged (GT models)
Engine Displacement Na:
2457 cc
Engine Displacement Turbo:
2457 cc
Horsepower Na:
170-173 hp @ 5,800 rpm (varies slightly by market/configuration)
Torque Na:
170-173 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm (varies slightly by market/configuration)
Horsepower Turbo:
265 hp @ 5,600 rpm
Torque Turbo:
247 lb-ft @ 2,000-5,200 rpm
Induction:
Sequential multi-point fuel injection (MPI) with electronic throttle control
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum recommended, 91 octane recommended for GT models)
Transmission Type Standard:
5-speed manual transmission (e.g., TY756 for non-turbo, TY856 for turbo GT)
Transmission Type Optional:
4-speed automatic transmission (e.g., TV1B3WBAA) or Subaru's Lineartronic Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) on select models
AWD System:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system with viscous center differential (manual) or electronically controlled multi-plate transfer clutch (automatic/CVT)
Length:
Approx. 4,745 mm (186.8 in)
Width:
Approx. 1,780 mm (70.1 in)
Height:
Approx. 1,475 mm (58.1 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2,750 mm (108.3 in)
Length:
Approx. 4,790 mm (188.6 in)
Width:
Approx. 1,780 mm (70.1 in)
Height:
Approx. 1,535 mm (60.4 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2,750 mm (108.3 in)
Trunk Volume:
Approx. 14.7 cu ft (subject to configuration)
Cargo Volume Seats Up:
Approx. 31.2 cu ft
Cargo Volume Seats Down:
Approx. 71.3 cu ft
Curb Weight Base Model:
Approx. 1,460 kg (3,219 lbs)
Curb Weight Gt Model:
Approx. 1,570 kg (3,461 lbs)
NHTSA Front Impact:
5-Star (for both driver and passenger in most configurations)
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Yes (often recognized as a Top Safety Pick)
Electronic Stability Control:
Standard (Vehicle Dynamics Control - VDC)
Traction Control:
Standard
Airbags:
Front, side-curtain, and front-seat side airbags
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH system
Audio System:
Base models typically feature a 4-speaker or 6-speaker AM/FM/CD stereo; higher trims offer premium audio, subwoofer, and auxiliary input jack.
Navigation:
Optional factory navigation system available on higher trim levels.
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control.
Tire Pressure Monitoring:
Standard Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).
Bluetooth:
Optional Bluetooth hands-free connectivity on some models.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions).
Service Intervals Filters
Engine Oil Filter Replacement:
At every oil change (e.g., Subaru part numbers 15208AA15A or equivalent).
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.
Fluid Specifications Engine Oil
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 0W-20 (recommended for most models, check owner's manual for specific engine variants).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.8 US quarts (4.5 liters) with filter change for 2.5L NA engine.
Fluid Specifications Transmission Auto
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
Subaru ATF-HP (or equivalent spec, check manual).
Fluid Specifications Transmission Cvt
Cvt Fluid Type:
Subaru CVT Fluid (NS-2 or NS-3, check specific model/year).
Fluid Specifications Coolant
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent silicate-free, long-life coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water).
Fluid Specifications Brake
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Engine Common Problems:
Head gasket leaks (less common on EJ253 than previous EJ series), oil consumption, occasional valve stem seal issues.
Transmission Common Problems:
CVT belt wear/failure on high-mileage units, occasional issues with torque converter lock-up in automatics.
Suspension Common Problems:
Worn sway bar links and bushings, front strut bearing noise.
Manufacturer Origin:
Japan
Core Philosophy:
Known for its Boxer engines, All-Wheel Drive systems, and practical, durable vehicles.
Previous Generation:
4th Generation (2005-2007)
Design Philosophy 5Th Gen:
More upscale and refined design compared to previous generations, increased interior space, and introduction of optional Lineartronic CVT.
Assembly Location:
Gunma Plant, Japan
