Segment:
Sport Coupe / Personal Luxury Car
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts seeking a unique, performance-oriented Subaru with advanced features for its era.
Key Competitors:
Toyota Celica, Honda Prelude, Mitsubishi Eclipse, Nissan 300ZX, Ford Probe
Distinguishing Features:
Unique 'bird's wing' glass canopy design, advanced AWD system, sleek aerodynamic styling, powerful flat-six engine (later models), driver-focused cockpit.
Covered Systems:
Engine Mechanical, Engine Fuel & Emissions Control, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Ignition System, Starting System, Charging System, Clutch, Transmission (Manual & Automatic), Driveline, Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brake System, Fuel System, Exhaust System, Electrical System (Body & Powertrain), Climate Control, Body & Frame, Interior Trim, Exterior Trim, Wiring Diagrams
Estimated Page Count:
1500+
Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Engine Systems:
Complete overhaul, component testing, timing belt replacement, fuel injection diagnostics, emissions control adjustments, turbocharger system (if applicable).
Transmission Systems:
Manual and automatic transmission disassembly, assembly, fluid changes, diagnostics, clutch service, AWD system operation and service.
Electrical Systems:
Detailed wiring diagrams for all circuits, component testing, diagnostic procedures for ECUs, sensors, actuators, lighting, and accessories.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Step-by-step troubleshooting guides for common and complex issues, symptom-based diagnostics, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation.
Repair Procedures:
Comprehensive instructions for engine rebuilds, suspension and steering component replacement, brake caliper overhauls, body panel repairs, interior component removal and installation.
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil change intervals, filter replacement, spark plug service, coolant flushes, belt tension checks, brake fluid replacement, tire rotation.
Depth:
Covers everything from basic preventative maintenance and fluid changes to complex engine diagnostics, transmission rebuilds, and electrical system troubleshooting. Suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.
Engine Type 1988:
Naturally Aspirated Flat-4 (Boxer)
Displacement 1988:
1.8 Liters (1781 cc)
Bore Stroke 1988:
92.0 mm x 80.0 mm
Compression Ratio 1988:
8.7:1
Horsepower 1988:
97 hp @ 5600 rpm (Naturally Aspirated)
Torque 1988:
103 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (Naturally Aspirated)
Turbocharged Variant Available:
Yes (XT Turbo)
Turbo Engine Horsepower:
135 hp @ 5600 rpm
Turbo Engine Torque:
145 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm
Fuel Delivery 1988:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type 1988:
Unleaded Gasoline
Required Octane Rating 1988:
87 (or higher)
Turbocharger Model If Applicable:
Garrett AiResearch T2
NHTSA Front Impact Rating:
Not Rated (NHTSA ratings were less standardized in 1988)
IIHS Crash Test Performance:
Not Tested
Braking System:
Power-assisted front disc brakes, rear drum brakes (standard). Optional front and rear disc brakes.
Anti Lock Braking System ABS:
Optional on select models.
Airbags:
Driver-side airbag standard from 1988 onwards.
Seat Belts:
3-point front seat belts, 2-point rear seat belts.
Rollover Protection:
Reinforced roof structure due to unique canopy design.
Audio System:
AM/FM stereo with cassette player. Optional premium sound system.
Display Technology:
Analog gauges, basic digital clock. No advanced displays.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most models.
Power Accessories:
Power steering, power windows, power door locks (standard or optional depending on trim).
HVAC System:
Manual climate control with A/C. Optional automatic climate control on some trims.
Oil Change Interval Miles:
3,750 miles or 6 months
Air Filter Replacement Interval Miles:
15,000 miles
Spark Plug Replacement Interval Miles:
30,000 miles
Timing Belt Replacement Interval Miles:
60,000 miles or 5 years
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 10W-30 API SG or SF
Engine Oil Capacity Quarts:
4.5 quarts (with filter)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water)
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-5 Gear Oil SAE 75W-90
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron III (or equivalent)
Common Engine Issues:
Head gasket leaks (especially on early EA82 engines), timing belt failure can cause catastrophic engine damage, distributor o-ring leaks.
Common Electrical Issues:
Wiring harness degradation, faulty power window motors, issues with the climate control system.
Common Mechanical Issues:
Clutch wear, front CV joint failure, suspension component wear (bushings, ball joints).
Subaru Focus:
Known for All-Wheel Drive technology and horizontally opposed ('boxer') engines.
Previous Generation:
Subaru RX Coupe (which shared the EA82 engine and AWD platform).
Design Inspiration:
The Subaru XT was conceived as a halo car for the brand, showcasing advanced aerodynamics and styling, paving the way for the more powerful SVX.
Successor Model:
Subaru SVX (introduced in 1991, but visually related).
Production Period:
1985-1991
Manufacturing Location:
Japan
Total Units Produced:
Approx. 58,000
Automotive Press Reviews:
Praised for its unique styling and all-wheel-drive capabilities, though criticized for its underpowered base engine and sometimes firm ride.
Import Car Of The Year Nominations:
None specifically documented for the 1988 model year in major publications, but considered a niche and innovative design.
Emissions Compliance:
Meets US EPA and California Air Resources Board (CARB) emissions standards for 1988.
