Segment:
Mid-size sedan, known for its standard All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system
Usp:
Standard symmetrical AWD, horizontally-opposed 'Boxer' engines, strong safety reputation
Key Competitors:
Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima, Ford Fusion, Mazda6
Differentiation:
Subaru's AWD and boxer engine configurations set it apart from most competitors in this segment.
Powertrain Options:
Naturally aspirated and turbocharged boxer engines, available with manual or automatic transmissions.
AWD System:
Subaru's signature Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive provides enhanced traction and stability in various conditions.
Safety Focus:
Designed with a focus on safety, featuring advanced airbag systems and robust chassis construction.
Benefit To Owner:
Enables owners to perform routine maintenance and repairs, saving significant costs on labor.
Benefit To Technician:
Provides factory-level accuracy for professional diagnostics and complex repairs.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, cylinder head, crankshaft, pistons, camshafts, timing system, lubrication system
Engine Performance:
Fuel delivery, ignition system, emission control, cooling system, turbocharger (for GT models)
Transmission Manual:
Clutch system, gearbox assembly, shifting mechanisms, gear ratios
Transmission Automatic:
Automatic transmission operation, torque converter, valve body, transmission control module (TCM), fluid service
Drivetrain:
All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, front differential, rear differential, driveshafts, CV joints, propeller shaft
Suspension:
Front suspension (MacPherson strut), rear suspension (multi-link), springs, shock absorbers, control arms, stabilizer bars
Steering:
Power steering system, steering column, steering rack, tie rods
Brakes:
Brake system components, hydraulic lines, master cylinder, brake calipers, rotors, ABS, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), parking brake
Body Exterior:
Body panel removal and installation, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, glass, sunroof
Body Interior:
Dashboard, seats, upholstery, interior trim panels, HVAC system components
Electrical Chassis:
Wiring diagrams, lighting system, horn, wipers, power windows, door locks, keyless entry
Electrical Powertrain:
Engine Control Module (ECM), Transmission Control Module (TCM), sensors, actuators, ignition coils
HVAC:
Air conditioning system, heating system, climate control module, refrigerant service
Safety Systems:
Airbag system (SRS), seatbelt pre-tensioners, related sensors and control modules
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, air filter replacement
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures, fault code interpretation, symptom-based diagnostics, electrical troubleshooting guides
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and overhaul
Component Rebuild:
Detailed procedures for engine, transmission, differential, and other major component rebuilds
Electrical Diagnostics:
Wiring harness testing, sensor testing, component circuit analysis, use of diagnostic tools
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specific tools required for certain repair procedures
Depth Level:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission overhauls)
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Includes detailed diagnostic flowcharts, trouble codes (DTCs), and component testing procedures
Torque Specifications:
Precise torque values for all fasteners and critical components
Clearances Tolerances:
Specifications for critical engine and chassis clearances and tolerances
Engine Code 2.5I:
EJ253 (2.5L SOHC Naturally Aspirated Flat-4)
Engine Code 2.5Gt:
EJ255 (2.5L DOHC Turbocharged Flat-4)
Engine Code 3.0R:
EZ30D (3.0L DOHC Naturally Aspirated Flat-6)
Engine Code Gt Spec.B:
EJ255 (2.5L DOHC Turbocharged Flat-4)
Horsepower 2.5I:
173 hp @ 5,600 rpm
Torque 2.5I:
166 lb-ft @ 4,400 rpm
Horsepower 2.5Gt:
265 hp @ 6,000 rpm
Torque 2.5Gt:
250 lb-ft @ 2,000 rpm
Horsepower 3.0R:
245 hp @ 6,600 rpm
Torque 3.0R:
219 lb-ft @ 4,200 rpm
Injection Type:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Requirement:
Regular unleaded gasoline (87 octane) for 2.5L NA; Premium unleaded gasoline (91+ octane) recommended for 2.5GT and 3.0R
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (blue) or equivalent silicate-free, long-life coolant.
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 6.7 US quarts (6.3 liters) for 2.5L models; Approx. 7.4 US quarts (7.0 liters) for 3.0L models.
Standard Transmission 2.5I:
5-speed Manual Transmission (5MT)
Standard Transmission Gt:
5-speed Manual Transmission (5MT) for GT; 6-speed Manual Transmission (6MT) for GT spec.B
Standard Transmission 3.0R:
5-speed Automatic Transmission (5EAT)
Optional Transmission 2.5I:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (4EAT)
Optional Transmission 3.0R:
N/A (5EAT was standard)
AWD Coupling Manual:
Viscous center coupling (VCD) for 5MT; Mechanical center differential for 6MT.
AWD Coupling Automatic:
Active All-Wheel Drive system with electronically controlled multi-plate clutch.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Subaru Extra-S (or equivalent) API GL-5 SAE 75W-90 gear oil. Capacity varies by model.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Subaru Genuine ATF HP (or equivalent) Dexron III/Mercon equivalent. Capacity varies by model.
Length:
Approx. 190.9 inches (4850 mm)
Width:
Approx. 70.1 inches (1780 mm)
Height:
Approx. 57.1 inches (1450 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 105.1 inches (2670 mm)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 5.9 inches (150 mm)
Curb Weight 2.5I Mt:
Approx. 3,296 lbs (1495 kg)
Curb Weight 2.5I At:
Approx. 3,318 lbs (1505 kg)
Curb Weight 2.5Gt Mt:
Approx. 3,445 lbs (1563 kg)
Curb Weight 3.0R At:
Approx. 3,505 lbs (1590 kg)
Trunk Volume:
Approx. 14.7 cubic feet (0.416 m³)
Wheelbase Pattern:
5x100mm
Tire Size 2.5I:
215/50R17
Tire Size 2.5Gt/3.0R:
225/45R18
NHTSA Front Crash Rating:
5 Stars (driver and passenger)
NHTSA Side Crash Rating:
5 Stars (front and rear passengers)
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Yes
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Esc:
Standard Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and Traction Control System (TCS)
Brake Assist:
Standard Brake Assist (BA)
Airbags:
Front dual-stage airbags, front side-impact airbags, front and rear side-curtain airbags.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters for all seating positions.
Chassis Design:
Subaru's Ring-Shaped Reinforcement Frame design for enhanced occupant protection.
Head Unit Options:
Factory single-CD/MP3 player with auxiliary input, optional navigation system, optional premium audio (e.g., Harman Kardon on higher trims).
Display Technology:
Central multi-information display (MID) in instrument cluster; touch-screen for navigation models.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control, integrated into steering wheel controls on many trims.
Tire Pressure Monitoring:
Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) is standard.
Keyless Entry Ignition:
Available keyless entry and push-button start on higher trims.
Auxiliary Input:
Standard 3.5mm auxiliary audio input jack.
Bluetooth:
Available Bluetooth hands-free connectivity on select trims.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 3 months for severe driving; 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months for normal driving (check owner's manual for exact specifications).
Engine Air Filter:
Replace every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or as needed based on conditions.
Cabin Air Filter:
Replace every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or annually.
Spark Plugs 2.5I Na:
Replace at 60,000 miles (96,000 km) with Iridium type plugs.
Spark Plugs 2.5Gt Turbo:
Replace at 30,000 miles (48,000 km) with colder heat range Iridium plugs as specified.
Timing Belt Or Chain:
EJ series engines use timing *belts*. Replacement recommended at 105,000 miles (168,000 km) or 7 years. *Note: The 3.0R EZ30D engine uses a timing chain which is generally maintenance-free for the life of the engine unless issues arise.*
Engine Oil Capacity 2.5L:
4.8 US quarts (4.5 liters) with filter change (check specific engine variant).
Engine Oil Capacity 3.0L:
6.9 US quarts (6.5 liters) with filter change (check specific engine variant).
Engine Oil Viscosity:
SAE 5W-30 is typically recommended for most conditions for all engines. Consult manual for extreme temperature variations.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 compatible brake fluid.
Head Gaskets Ej25:
While less common in this generation compared to earlier EJ engines, head gasket failures can still occur, especially in turbocharged models if overheated. The manual will detail inspection and replacement procedures.
Turbocharger Issues Ej255:
Turbocharger failure can occur due to oil starvation or debris. Proper maintenance is crucial. The manual covers turbocharger inspection and replacement.
Suspension Components:
Wear on bushings, ball joints, and sway bar links can occur over time, leading to noise or handling issues. The manual provides specifications for wear limits and replacement.
Automatic Transmission Solenoids:
Some reports of transmission solenoid issues leading to harsh shifting or engagement problems. The manual details solenoid testing and replacement.