Segment:
Compact Crossover SUV
Differentiation:
Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, Boxer Engine, Sporty Handling, Practicality
Key Competitors:
Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, Mazda Tribute, Nissan Xterra
Powertrain:
Reliable Boxer engines with Symmetrical AWD
Utility:
Hatchback utility, higher ground clearance than sedans
Engine:
2.5L SOHC Naturally Aspirated (EJ251), 2.5L DOHC Turbocharged (EJ255 - for XT models)
Transmission:
Manual (5-speed), Automatic (4-speed)
Drivetrain:
All-Wheel Drive (Symmetrical AWD), Front Differential, Rear Differential, Transfer Case
Suspension:
Front Struts, Rear Shock Absorbers, Springs, Control Arms, Bushings, Stabilizer Bars
Brakes:
Front Disc, Rear Disc, ABS System, Parking Brake
Steering:
Power Steering System, Steering Column, Steering Rack/Gearbox
Electrical:
Battery, Alternator, Starter, Ignition System, Lighting, Fuses, Relays, ECUs, Wiring Diagrams
HVAC:
Air Conditioning, Heating, Ventilation, Blower Motor, Evaporator, Condenser
Body:
Exterior Panels, Doors, Hood, Liftgate, Bumpers, Glass, Interior Trim
Maintenance:
Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plugs, Belts, Hoses, Fluid Flushes
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting Guides, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) Interpretation
Repair:
Engine Overhaul, Transmission Rebuild, Suspension Component Replacement, Brake System Repair, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Replacement
Specifications:
Torque Specifications, Component Dimensions, Clearance Checks
Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine/transmission rebuilds)
Engine Type:
EJ251 (Naturally Aspirated)
Displacement:
2.5 Liters (2498 cc)
Configuration:
Horizontally Opposed (Boxer) 4-Cylinder
Valvetrain:
SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft), 16 Valves
Horsepower:
Approx. 165 hp @ 5600 rpm (varies slightly by year)
Torque:
Approx. 166 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (varies slightly by year)
Injection:
Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Engine Type:
EJ255 (Turbocharged - for XT models)
Displacement:
2.5 Liters (2498 cc)
Configuration:
Horizontally Opposed (Boxer) 4-Cylinder, DOHC
Horsepower:
Approx. 210-220 hp (varies by year and specific XT model)
NHTSA Front Driver:
4/5 Stars (for early models)
NHTSA Front Passenger:
4/5 Stars (for early models)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Optional (standard on some higher trims/later years)
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger Front Airbags, Optional Side Airbags
Head Unit:
Factory AM/FM/CD Player (Cassette on some earlier models). Optional Premium Sound System.
Speakers:
4-6 speaker configuration
Vehicle Stability Control:
VDC (Vehicle Dynamics Control) became available on higher trims in later years of this generation.
Oil Change:
Every 3,750 miles or 3 months (severe duty), 7,500 miles or 6 months (normal duty) - consult manual for exact specification
Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed
Spark Plugs:
Platinum: Approx. 60,000 - 100,000 miles (consult manual)
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles or 30 months
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-30 (API SG or higher)
Coolant:
Subaru Super Coolant or equivalent (Blue)
Transmission Fluid Atf:
Subaru ATF-HP or equivalent
Manual Gear Oil:
SAE 75W-90 GL-5
Head Gaskets:
Common failure point on EJ25 engines, especially early naturally aspirated models. Look for coolant leaks or milky oil.
Oil Leaks:
Can occur from valve covers, oil pan, or rear main seal.
Awt Control Module:
Intermittent AWD issues can sometimes be traced to the AWD control module.
Radiator Fans:
Fan motors can fail, leading to overheating.
Philosophy:
Subaru is known for its commitment to safety, AWD technology, and unique Boxer engine architecture.
Generation 1:
SF Series (1997-2002). Introduced as a more car-like alternative to traditional SUVs, based on the Impreza platform. Known for its distinctive styling and practicality.
Generation 2:
SG Series (2003-2008). A significant redesign with a larger body, improved interior, and updated powertrains, including the turbocharged XT model.
