Subaru commemorates 40th anniversary of AWD

MISSISSAUGA, ON, Feb. 14, 2012 /CNW/ - Subaru Canada, Inc. (SCI) today announced that this year marks the 40^th anniversary of the debut of Subaru symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) vehicles since the Subaru Leone Estate Van 4WD was first introduced in Japan in 1972. During the past 40 years, Subaru has continued to be a pioneer of passenger AWD vehicles. In fact, the total production*¹ of Subaru AWD vehicles has reached 11,782,812 units (as of January 31, 2012). This is approximately 55.7 percent of total vehicle sales for Subaru.

*¹ including the production of part-time 4WD vehicles

Subaru's AWD system provides traction effectively by distributing engine torque to all four wheels in a balanced manner. With the combination of Subaru symmetrical full-time AWD and Subaru's horizontally opposed SUBARU BOXER engine, the whole powertrain is mounted with side-to-side symmetry and the transmission sits back from the front axle within the wheelbase. This layout optimizes the longitudinal-transverse weight balance, bringing stable traction on a multitude of road surfaces and driving conditions. Excellent stability at high speeds and superb cornering and responsiveness are also realized, making Subaru symmetrical full-time All-Wheel Drive a core technology that underpins Subaru's core philosophies of safety and driving enjoyment.

Through continuous research and development over the past 40 years, Subaru has refined its AWD technologies from a basic technology capable of rough road driveability to the advanced engineering available today, achieving high stability in rainy, snowy or high speed conditions and allowing Subaru's AWD system to be paired with a transmission that best meets each model's characteristics. This latest technology includes four-wheel traction management, which gives firm and accurate grip continuously to all four wheels at once. This four-wheel control expertise is also utilized for the development of front-wheel drive and rear-wheel drive vehicles, broadening Subaru's driving pleasure to reach more customers.

These core philosophies - peace of mind and driving pleasure - are a key component of Subaru's global brand statement, Confidence in Motion, and Subaru will realize these objectives by continuing to utilize these unique technologies.

Supplementary information

- Subaru symmetrical AWD systems -

• Viscous-coupling limited-slip centre differential AWD: Mechanical AWD for manual transmissions.
  This set-up maintains a 50/50 torque split at all times to provide heightened response under all possible conditions. This transmission and AWD system is tailor-made for those who desire maximum control and sport satisfaction.
  Legacy (MT models), Outback (MT models) Forester (MT models), WRX, Impreza (MT models)
• Electronically-controlled Multi-Plate Transfer Clutch AWD: Electronically controlled AWD for enhanced fuel efficiency and stability.
  Subaru's original electronically controlled MPT (Multi-plate Transfer Clutch) adjusts torque distribution to the front and rear wheels in real time to suit driving conditions. The Multi-plate Transfer Clutch AWD maintains a 60/40 torque split front-to-rear for more predictable handling, and then automatically adjusts to a 50/50 split under strong acceleration or when road conditions warrant.
  Legacy 2.5i (CVT models), Outback 2.5i (CVT models), Forester (4EAT models), Impreza (CVT models)
• Variable torque distribution AWD: Electronically controlled sporty AWD for enhanced turning performance.
  A compact AWD system that combines the centre differential using the planetary gear set with an electronically controlled hydraulic multiple-disc clutch limited-slip differential. An uneven 45:55 front/rear torque distribution is continuously variable using a multiple disc clutch limited-slip differential. Torque distribution is controlled automatically up to an equal 50:50 front and rear to suit road surface conditions for superb stability. By distributing torque with an emphasis on the rear wheels, turning performance is enhanced to provide aggressive and sporty driving.
  Legacy 3.6R, Outback 3.6R, Tribeca
• Multi-mode Driver Controlled Centre Differential AWD: Performance-directed AWD for maximum versatility.
  Tailor-made to withstand the significant torque of the WRX STI, the multi-mode Driver Controlled Centre Differential (DCCD) allows for the adjustment of the electromechanical centre differential to ensure precise handling in all conditions. The Auto mode is for all-around driving; torque distribution automatically varies between 41/59 and 50/50 (front/rear) as conditions warrant. By tightening the centre differential, the Auto [+] mode enhances traction and stability on slippery roads, targeting a 50/50 torque split, front/rear. The Auto [-] mode targets a 41/59 (front/rear) torque split for enhanced turning capability and more responsive handling. Lastly, Manual mode offers the driver a 6-step adjustment of the centre differential locking.
  WRX STI

About Subaru Canada, Inc.
Subaru Canada, Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. of Japan. Headquartered in Mississauga, Ontario, the company markets and distributes Subaru vehicles, parts and accessories through a network of over 85 authorized dealers across Canada.

SOURCE Subaru Canada Inc.

For further information:

Joe Felstein or Julie Lychak               
(905) 568-4959     

Amyot Bachand
Media Relations, Quebec Region
(514) 691-9276