Segment:
Performance Compact Sedan/Hatchback (All-Wheel Drive Rally-Inspired).
Key Competitors:
Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, Volkswagen Golf R, Ford Focus RS.
Vehicle Philosophy:
Blend of daily drivability and track-inspired performance, symmetrical all-wheel drive, turbocharged boxer engine, driver-focused cockpit.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine overhaul, diagnosis, repair procedures, timing belt/chain, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, lubrication system, cooling system.
Engine Management:
Fuel injection, ignition system, emissions control, ECU diagnosis, sensor testing, turbocharger system.
Transmission:
6-speed manual transmission (TY85) repair, overhaul, clutch replacement, AWD system (DCCD) service and diagnosis.
Drivetrain:
Front and rear differentials, driveshafts, hub assemblies, wheel bearings.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, struts, springs, bushings, alignment specifications.
Brakes:
Brake system diagnosis, hydraulic system, ABS, EBD, brake pad/rotor replacement, caliper service, parking brake.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, starter, lighting, power windows, central locking, infotainment, wiring diagrams.
Body And Chassis:
Body panel repair, rust prevention, interior trim removal, glass replacement.
HVAC:
Air conditioning, heating, ventilation system diagnosis and repair.
Safety Systems:
Airbag system diagnosis and service, seatbelt mechanisms.
Preventative Maintenance:
Oil change, filter replacement, fluid checks, spark plug replacement, brake inspection, tire rotation.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting guides, electrical circuit testing.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and adjustment for all major systems.
Diagnostics:
Detailed guides on using diagnostic tools, interpreting sensor data, and pinpointing faults.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of Subaru-specific tools required for certain procedures.
Depth Level:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to full engine rebuilds and complex electrical diagnostics).
Engine Type:
2.5L DOHC Turbocharged Boxer Engine (EJ257).
Horsepower:
305 hp @ 6000 rpm (approx).
Torque:
290 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (approx).
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI) with Sequential Electronic Fuel Injection.
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher recommended).
Bore X Stroke:
99.5 mm x 79.0 mm (approx).
Compression Ratio:
9.0:1 (approx).
Turbocharger:
IHI VF48 Twin-Scroll Turbocharger with intercooler.
Wheelbase:
103.3 inches (2625 mm) for Hatchback, 104.9 inches (2665 mm) for Sedan.
Length:
173.8 inches (4415 mm) for Hatchback, 180.9 inches (4595 mm) for Sedan.
Width:
70.7 inches (1795 mm).
Height:
58.1 inches (1475 mm) for Hatchback, 57.9 inches (1470 mm) for Sedan.
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3373-3417 lbs (1530-1550 kg) depending on body style.
Gross Weight Rating:
Approx. 4500 lbs (2041 kg).
Cargo Volume Hatchback:
Approx. 19.0 cu ft (rear seats up).
Cargo Volume Sedan:
Approx. 11.3 cu ft.
NHTSA Overall:
5-Star Overall Safety Rating (for comparable models/years, specific STI ratings may vary).
IIHS Ratings:
Good ratings in most IIHS crashworthiness tests for comparable models.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System.
Ebd:
Electronic Brake-force Distribution.
Vsc:
Vehicle Stability Control.
Traction Control:
Traction Control System (TCS).
Airbags:
Front dual-stage airbags, front side-impact airbags, side curtain airbags (front and rear).
Seatbelts:
3-point height-adjustable front seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters, rear 3-point seatbelts.
Child Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (under severe driving conditions), or 7,500 miles/12 months for normal conditions (refer to manual for specific details).
Engine Air Filter:
Replace every 15,000 miles or 12 months.
Cabin Air Filter:
Replace every 15,000 miles or 12 months.
Spark Plugs:
Replace every 30,000 miles (for iridium-tipped plugs).
Coolant Replacement:
Initial replacement at 60,000 miles or 60 months, then every 30,000 miles or 30 months thereafter.
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-30 (API SN or higher, ILSAC GF-5 or higher). Recommended: Subaru Synthetic Ester Oil 0W-20 (if permitted by manual for specific climate/use).
Transmission Fluid:
Subaru Extra-S Gear Oil (75W-90 GL-5) or equivalent for manual transmission and differentials.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Coolant:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent P-HOAT coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water).
Engine Reliability:
Head gasket failures (less common on EJ257 compared to earlier EJ25), piston ring land failures in high-stress applications, oil consumption.
Turbocharger:
Bearing wear, oil starvation if maintenance is neglected.
Clutch:
Can wear prematurely with aggressive driving.
Dccd:
Potential failure of the DCCD unit over time, especially with moisture ingress or heavy use.
Suspension:
Wear on bushings and end links due to performance-oriented setup.