Segment:
Performance Compact Sedan/Wagon
Usp:
Iconic rally-bred performance, Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, turbocharged boxer engine, driver-focused cockpit.
Key Competitors:
Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, Subaru WRX (standard models), Mitsubishi Eclipse GT, Mazda Mazdaspeed3.
Drivetrain:
Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system with Driver Controlled Center Differential (DCCD).
Engine Technology:
Horizontally opposed (boxer) turbocharged engine for a lower center of gravity and improved handling.
Suspension:
Performance-tuned independent suspension, front inverted struts, rear multi-link.
Brakes:
Performance braking system, often with Brembo calipers (front).
Powertrain:
Engine, fuel system, exhaust, cooling, lubrication, ignition, engine management, manual transmission, automatic transmission (if applicable), drivetrain, differentials, axles, driveshafts
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering, brakes (hydraulic and parking), wheels, tires, chassis frame, body structure
Electrical:
Charging system, starting system, lighting, ignition, instrumentation, audio system, power accessories, body control module (BCM), engine control unit (ECU), body wiring diagrams, chassis wiring diagrams
Body:
Exterior body panels, interior trim, seating, doors, windows, sunroof, bumpers, hood, trunk, HVAC system, climate control
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures, fault code interpretation, symptom-based troubleshooting, wiring diagrams for diagnostics
Repair:
Engine overhaul, transmission repair/rebuild, brake caliper overhaul, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair/replacement, body panel repair/replacement
Installation:
Component installation, accessory fitting, timing belt replacement procedures
Depth:
Comprehensive: From basic maintenance and fluid changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, advanced diagnostics, and detailed electrical troubleshooting.
Engine Type:
2.5L Turbocharged DOHC 16-Valve Flat-4 (EJ257)
Horsepower:
305 hp @ 6000 rpm (approx.)
Torque:
290 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (approx.)
Injection Type:
Sequential multi-point fuel injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
ECU:
Subaru Engine Control Unit (ECU) with advanced engine management capabilities.
NHTSA Front Impact:
5-star
NHTSA Side Impact:
5-star
IIHS Frontal Offset:
Good
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with EBD (Electronic Brake-force Distribution)
Traction Control:
Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) - often includes traction and stability control
Airbags:
Front airbags, front side-impact airbags, side curtain airbags (may vary by market/trim)
Seatbelts:
3-point height-adjustable front seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters, rear 3-point seatbelts
Structure:
Reinforced body structure with front and rear crumple zones.
Audio System:
Standard AM/FM/CD audio system with optional premium sound system. Speaker configurations vary by trim.
Navigation:
Optional factory navigation system available on select trims.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control functionality.
Dccd:
Driver Controlled Center Differential (DCCD) for adjustable torque split, allowing drivers to fine-tune handling characteristics.
Auxiliary Input:
Standard auxiliary audio input jack for external media players.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 6 months (severe driving) / 7,500 miles or 12 months (normal driving), consult manual for specifics.
Timing Belt Interval:
105,000 miles or 105 months (critical item, check manual for exact procedure).
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic (meeting API SN or equivalent). Consult manual for exact Subaru specs.
Transmission Fluid:
Subaru Extra-S Manual Transmission Fluid (or equivalent API GL-5, SAE 75W-90).
Differential Fluid:
Subaru Extra-S Differential Fluid (or equivalent API GL-5, SAE 75W-90).
Coolant:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent OAT coolant.
Engine Knock:
Potential for detonation or ringland failure due to high boost and inadequate octane, especially with modifications. Manual addresses diagnostic steps.
Clutch Wear:
High-performance clutch can wear faster under aggressive driving. Manual covers clutch inspection and replacement.
Turbocharger Issues:
While generally robust, proper maintenance (oil changes, cool-down periods) is crucial. Manual details turbocharger service.
Differential Noise:
Occasional reports of rear differential noise; manual covers inspection and fluid checks.
