Why SUBARU: Technology

The Symmetrical AWD

Taking you wherever you want to go.

Symmetrical AWD, comprising of a longitudinally mounted Horizontally-Opposed SUBARU BOXER engine which achieves the low center of gravity and a symmetrically designed AWD drivetrain, is the system that Subaru has focused on for the best stability, safety and on-road performance at all times on all roads and in poor conditions. And ...

The Symmetrical AWD

Symmetrical AWD, Subaru’s own four-wheel drive system. Its greatest feature is that the powertrain, the core of which is the horizontally opposed engine, is symmetrically laid out in a straight line. As the four wheels bear weight equally with this basic layout, the road-hugging property of the tires is excellent and outstanding driving performance is achieved. It maximizes the potential of four-wheel drive. In addition, with symmetrical AWD, the heavy transmission is located near the center of the vehicle. Furthermore, the engine is the light, compact, and low center-of-gravity horizontally opposed engine. Due to its superior weight balance, the moment of inertia is low when turning and braking so the driver can enjoy the superior handling. At the same time, as the vehicle is stable and comfortable, the driver can enjoy a pleasant drive.

Mechanism like no other delivers ideal performance

Stable even in sudden bad weather. Challenges the roughest roads. Runs along the intended line. And lets you drive with confidence regardless of your driving skill. SUBARU's original core mechanism heightens stability, traction and agility to deliver such ideal performance.

SUBARU delivers peace of mind even in sudden bad weather

SUBARU's power train is well-balanced with a horizontally opposed engine and transmission in a linear and symmetrical layout which minimizes left/right weight difference. This delivers stable driving for peace of mind even in sudden bad weather.

SUBARU lets you proceed without hesitation regardless of the road that awaits you

SUBARU believes AWD is the ideal drive system. As AWD distributes power to all four wheels, the tires firmly grip even slippery or rough roads, enabling powerful driving.

SUBARU lets you drive the way intend to

With SUBARU, vehicle swaying is controlled in all directions so you can drive smoothly along your intended line even on winding roads or during sudden steering.

X-Mode

One button elevates driving confidence and provides advanced, SUV-like control. The all-new X-Mode brings a whole new meaning to security and peace of mind, regardless of how rough or slippery a road may be as it works to coordinate the engine, transmission, Symmetrical AWD and brakes to safely drive over almost any type terrain. X-Mode assists in those cases where the vehicle starts moving faster as it drives downhill, like when driving down snowy roads or gravel slopes. Hill Descent Control maintains the vehicle’s speed so the driver can focus more on steering.

X-Mode

Hill Descent Control

Symmetrical AWD: Four Types to Match Every Model

Active torque split AWD

An AWD system developed exclusively for 4-speed automatic transmission, E-4AT (with manual mode) and Lineartronic models to maximise the reliable driving performance of AWD models under any driving conditions. The Lineartronic CVT (Continuous Variable Transmission) uses a chain instead of a belt—allowing a greater span of overall ratios for...

Variable Torque Distribution AWD

An AWD system designed exclusively for 5-speed automatic transmission, E-5AT (with manual mode) models to provide aggressive, sporty driving with increased turning abilities all while retaining the fundamental driving stability offered by the Symmetrical AWD. An uneven 45:55 front and rear torque distribution has been set for the front and rear tyres. Sending...

Viscous Centre Differential AWD

An AWD system for manual transmissions with a simple layout consisting of a centre differential and viscous LSD. A 50:50 front and rear torque distribution is set under normal conditions. This maximises traction and provides driving backed with stability. When the front or rear wheels slip and traction is lost, or the wheel speed differs between the front...

Multi-mode DCCD

The Driver’s Control Centre Differential (DCCD) allows the centre differential locking of the WRX STI to be dialed in and adjust its handling. It adjusts both an electromagnetic multi-plate transfer clutch and mechanical locking of a Limited Slip Differential (LSD) to distribute torque to the front and rear wheels. Auto Mode identifies the ideal power distribution for...