A Helpful Glossary of Subaru Terms

The automobile industry loves to use certain terms, acronyms and abbreviations to refer to things like the various technology components, engineering standards, option packages, vehicle trim levels, or many other things that might not be crystal clear to the rest of us.

Since we're big proponents of educating our customers here at Mitchell Subaru, we thought we'd provide a bit of explanation on what some of the more common terms are, and what they really stand for. (Call it a "Car-Speak-to-English" translator.)

This glossary grows with time, so if you ever wonder to yourself, "what does THAT mean?", just reach out to us, and we'll be happy to explain!

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive

The simple facts on real traction with Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. See it tested, explained and proven.

Lineartronic CVT

It stands for Continuously Variable Transmission, and this innovative technology has been engineered to work seamlessly with the SUBARU BOXER engine and Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive to help reduce fuel consumption. The stepless gear ratio allows the engine to run within its optimal power range for improved fuel economy, while its lightweight, compact design helps the vehicle stay as agile as it can be.

In Automatic Mode, it adjusts instantly to match your acceleration, eliminating the need to shift and preserving the vehicle's momentum often lost with conventional automatic transmissions. In 6-Speed Manual Mode, paddle shifters are mounted for fingertip control, giving you the power to select the gear ratio that best suits your driving situation. The result is a sharper and sportier driving experience.

SUBARU BOXER Engine

Drawn from a century of intelligent performance, the horizontal layout of the SUBARU BOXER engine combines balance with power and efficiency. And every Subaru comes with a SUBARU BOXER engine.

Like the jabs of a boxer, where the engine got its name, the SUBARU BOXER layout allows the engine to be positioned in-line with the drivetrain for maximum transfer of power. Many other engines are transverse, or turned perpendicular, and can require additional drivetrain components to transfer power, reducing vehicle efficiency.

The punch-counterpunch movements of the boxer's pistons cancel out each other for a smoother running engine without having to use additional components to counteract them as in many in-line and V-type engines.

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