Segment:
Mid-size Crossover SUV / Station Wagon
Key Competitors:
Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Ford Escape, Nissan X-Trail/Rogue, Mazda CX-5 (later models)
All Wheel Drive:
Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system on most models
Ground Clearance:
Higher than many competitors, offering light off-road capability
Horizontally Opposed Engine:
Subaru's signature Boxer engine for a lower center of gravity
Safety Focus:
Reputation for safety and good crash test performance
Powertrain:
Engine, transmission, drivetrain, exhaust, fuel system, cooling system
Chassis:
Suspension, steering, brakes, wheels, tires
Body:
Exterior, interior, doors, windows, seats, body panels
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, instrumentation, power accessories, starting/charging, infotainment system
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections
Repair:
Component removal and installation, system diagnostics, troubleshooting, repair procedures
Diagnostics:
OBD-II diagnostics, fault code interpretation, symptom-based troubleshooting
Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to advanced engine/transmission overhaul and electrical diagnostics)
Standard Transmission:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (4EAT)
Optional Transmission:
5-speed Manual Transmission (available on some 2.5i models)
AWD System:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive with Electronic Control (Active AWD for automatic transmissions)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Subaru ATF HP (Genuine Subaru Fluid recommended) or equivalent DEXRON III/MERCON compatible fluid
Automatic Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approx. 3.5-4.0 quarts (8.0-8.5 liters) for drain and fill
Length:
Approx. 189.4 inches (4810 mm)
Width:
Approx. 70.1 inches (1780 mm)
Height:
Approx. 61.4 inches (1560 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 104.3 inches (2650 mm)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 8.1 inches (206 mm)
Cargo Volume Seats Up:
Approx. 33.5 cu ft (948 liters)
Cargo Volume Seats Down:
Approx. 68.3 cu ft (1934 liters)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3350 - 3650 lbs (1520 - 1655 kg)
NHTSA Front Impact:
5-Star Driver, 5-Star Passenger
IIHS Front Offset Crash Test:
Good
IIHS Side Impact Crash Test:
Good
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
E Brake Force Distribution:
Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)
Traction Control:
Traction Control System (TCS) and Vehicle Stability Control (VDC)
Airbags:
Frontal airbags, side-impact airbags, available curtain airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seatbelts with pretensioners
Head Unit Features:
Standard AM/FM/CD player, optional 6-disc CD changer, available premium audio system (e.g., Harman Kardon), auxiliary audio input.
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control
Climate Control:
Manual or automatic climate control systems depending on trim level.
Auxiliary Input:
Auxiliary audio jack for connecting external music players.
Engine Oil Change:
Every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 3.75 months (severe conditions) / Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 7.5 months (normal conditions). Check manual for specifics.
Service Intervals Filters
Oil Filter Replacement:
Replace with every oil change.
Service Intervals Timing Belt
Timing Belt Replacement 2.5I:
Every 105,000 miles (168,000 km) or 105 months. Highly recommended to replace water pump and idler pulleys at the same time.
Fluid Specifications Coolant
Engine Coolant:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent P-HOAT coolant (Ethylene Glycol based, Phosphate/Silicate free)
Engine Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 6.8 - 7.4 quarts (6.4 - 7.0 liters), depending on engine
Fluid Specifications Brake
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid
Fluid Specifications Power Steering
Power Steering Fluid:
Genuine Subaru Power Steering Fluid or Dexron III/Mercon ATF
Head Gaskets 2.5I:
While less prevalent than in earlier EJ engines, head gasket leaks can still occur, particularly on the 2.5L SOHC engine. The manual will detail inspection and replacement procedures.
Wheel Bearings:
Front and rear wheel bearings can wear prematurely, especially in vehicles driven in areas with road salt or frequent submersion. Manual covers diagnosis and replacement.
Evaporative Emissions System Leaks:
Can cause check engine lights due to P0442/P0455 codes. Manual assists in diagnosing EVAP system components like charcoal canister, purge valve, and vent valve.
Automatic Transmission Performance:
While generally reliable, some cases of delayed shifting or hesitant engagement may occur. Manual provides diagnostic steps and fluid maintenance recommendations.
Tire Size Example:
215/55R17 (common for higher trims), 205/55R17 (base models)
Company Origin:
Japanese manufacturer with a long history of producing reliable vehicles, known for AWD and Boxer engines.
Generation Transition:
The 3rd generation (BP/BL) represented a significant redesign from the 2nd generation, moving to a more car-like crossover platform while retaining AWD and Subaru's signature engineering.
Manufacturing Location:
Mainly Japan (Gunma Plant)
