Segment:
Compact Crossover SUV
Key Competitors:
Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Nissan X-Trail, Mazda CX-5
Powertrain:
Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD)
Design:
Wagon-like utility with SUV stance
Handling:
Boxer engine contributing to low center of gravity
Engine:
Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, emissions, starting and charging systems
Transmission:
Manual and automatic transmissions, clutch, drivetrain components (driveshafts, differentials)
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, disc brakes, drum brakes, parking brake, ABS
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension, steering system, wheel alignment
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, instruments, audio system, power accessories, charging system, starting system
Body:
Body panels, interior trim, doors, windows, seats, exterior lighting
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes
Repair:
Component removal, installation, and repair for all major systems
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based diagnostics
Engine Rebuild:
Detailed engine disassembly, inspection, and reassembly procedures
Electrical Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step guides using wiring diagrams and test procedures
Level:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete overhaul)
Configuration:
2.5L Horizontally-Opposed (Boxer) 4-Cylinder
Displacement:
2457 cc (149.9 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke:
99.5 mm x 80.0 mm
Valve Train:
DOHC, 16 valves
Horsepower:
173 hp @ 5600 rpm
Torque:
166 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Turbo Horsepower:
224 hp @ 5600 rpm (XT models)
Turbo Torque:
235 lb-ft @ 2800 rpm (XT models)
Induction:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, 87 octane (91 octane recommended for optimal performance)
Alternate Engine:
EJ255 (Turbocharged - XT models)
NHTSA Front Driver:
5-Star
NHTSA Front Passenger:
5-Star
NHTSA Side Impact Front:
5-Star
NHTSA Side Impact Rear:
5-Star
AWD:
Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Vcs:
Available Vehicle Stability Control (VSC)
TCS:
Available Traction Control System (TCS)
Airbags:
Front dual-stage airbags, front side-impact airbags, front and rear side-curtain airbags
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system
Audio System:
Standard AM/FM/CD player with 4-6 speakers, optional premium audio
Navigation:
Optional factory-installed navigation system
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control
Auxiliary Input:
Standard auxiliary audio input jack
Bluetooth:
Optional Bluetooth hands-free connectivity
Oil Change:
Every 3,750 miles or 3 months (severe conditions) / 7,500 miles or 6 months (normal conditions)
Tire Rotation:
Every 7,500 miles
Engine Air Filter:
Every 30,000 miles or as needed
Cabin Air Filter:
Every 15,000 miles or as needed
Spark Plugs:
Every 105,000 miles (platinum tipped)
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-30, API SL or SM, ILSAC GF-3 or GF-4
Coolant:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue), 50/50 mix with distilled water
Transmission Fluid Auto:
Subaru ATF HP (Genuine Subaru)
Transmission Fluid Manual:
SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil (GL-5)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid:
Subaru ATF-HP or Dexron III
Head Gaskets:
While less prevalent than in earlier models, some EJ25 engines can still experience head gasket leaks. The manual will detail inspection and replacement procedures.
Oil Leaks:
Rear main seal and oil pan gasket leaks can occur. Manual provides guidance on diagnosis and repair.
Suspension Wear:
Control arm bushings and sway bar links can wear over time, affecting ride and handling. Manual covers replacement.
Foundation:
Founded in 1917 as Fuji Heavy Industries
Core Philosophy:
Focus on safety, durability, and unique engineering (e.g., Boxer engine, AWD)
First Generation:
1997-2002
Second Generation:
2003-2008 (This manual covers the later part of this generation)
Third Generation:
2009-2013
Assembly Location:
Gunma Plant, Japan