Segment:
Compact Crossover SUV
Key Selling Points:
Standard Symmetrical AWD, Practicality, Safety, Off-road Capability (for its class)
Competitors:
Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, Mazda Tribute
Powertrain Layout:
Front-engine, Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive
Target Audience:
Families, outdoor enthusiasts, those seeking all-weather capability.
Engine:
2.5L Naturally Aspirated (EJ251), 2.5L Turbocharged (EJ255)
Transmission:
4-Speed Automatic (4EAT), 5-Speed Manual
Drivetrain:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) System
Suspension:
Front MacPherson Struts, Rear Multi-Link Independent Suspension
Brakes:
Front Vented Discs, Rear Discs (ABS Standard)
Electrical:
Complete Wiring Diagrams, ECU, Fuses, Relays, Lighting, Ignition, Charging System
Body And Chassis:
Body Panels, Doors, Glass, Frame, Structural Components
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning System
Fuel System:
Fuel Tank, Pump, Injectors, Lines, Emissions Control
Steering:
Power Rack and Pinion Steering System
Maintenance:
Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks, Spark Plug Replacement, Belt Replacement
Repair:
Engine Overhaul, Transmission Rebuild, Suspension Component Replacement, Brake System Service, Electrical Component Repair
Diagnostics:
OBD-II Codes, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Component Testing
Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic flowcharts for common and uncommon issues
Specifications:
Torque Specifications, Tolerances, Clearances, Fluid Capacities, Electrical Schematics
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic scheduled maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical system diagnostics and repair.
Engine Code Naturally Aspirated:
EJ251
Displacement Naturally Aspirated:
2.5 Liters (2498cc)
Configuration Naturally Aspirated:
Horizontally-Opposed (Boxer), 4-Cylinder, DOHC, 16-Valve
Horsepower Naturally Aspirated:
165 hp @ 5600 RPM
Torque Naturally Aspirated:
166 lb-ft @ 4000 RPM
Engine Code Turbocharged:
EJ255 (for XT models)
Displacement Turbocharged:
2.5 Liters (2457cc)
Configuration Turbocharged:
Horizontally-Opposed (Boxer), 4-Cylinder, DOHC, 16-Valve, Turbocharged
Horsepower Turbocharged:
210 hp @ 5600 RPM
Torque Turbocharged:
235 lb-ft @ 3600 RPM
Injection Type:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Required Octane:
87 Octane (91+ for Turbocharged)
Type:
5-Speed Manual Transmission
Type:
4-Speed Automatic Transmission (4EAT) with Electronic Control
AWD Type:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive System (Viscous Coupling Limited Slip Center Differential)
Automatic Modes:
Hold Mode, Sport Shift (on select models)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Subaru ATF-HP or equivalent
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Subaru 75W-90 API GL-5 Gear Oil
NHTSA Frontal Crash Test:
5-Star (Driver), 4-Star (Passenger)
IIHS Side Impact Test:
Good
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Traction Control:
Optional on some models, VDC (Vehicle Dynamics Control) on higher trims
Airbags:
Front Dual-Stage Airbags, Optional Side Curtain Airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seatbelts with pretensioners
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH System
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 3.75 months (severe conditions), 7,500 miles or 7.5 months (normal conditions)
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 15 months
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 15 months
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles (Platinum)
Timing Belt Replacement:
105,000 miles or 105 months (critical replacement interval for EJ series engines)
Engine Oil Type And Capacity:
SAE 5W-30 API SG or SH, 4.7 US quarts (with filter) for EJ251/EJ255
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent silicate-free long-life coolant
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Subaru Genuine ATF or Dexron II/III equivalent
Head Gaskets:
While less prevalent than in earlier EJ engines, head gasket leaks can still occur. The manual details inspection and replacement procedures.
Catalytic Converter:
Premature failure can occur, often indicated by P0420/P0430 codes. Manual covers diagnostic steps.
Oxygen Sensors:
Can fail over time, impacting fuel economy and emissions. Manual provides testing procedures.
Automatic Transmission Problems:
Some models may experience delayed engagement or shifting issues; manual covers diagnostic and repair for 4EAT.
Subaru Philosophy:
Focus on All-Wheel Drive, Boxer Engines, Safety, and Durability
Generation:
First Generation (1997-2002), Second Generation (2003-2008)
Redesign Notes:
The 2003 model represents the second generation, featuring a larger chassis, improved styling, and updated powertrains compared to the first generation.
Manufacturing Location:
Gunma Prefecture, Japan