Subaru has made its mark in the SUV world by offering standard all-wheel drive on each of their vehicles. They call their system "Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive" because the engine is mounted in-line with the drivetrain, enabling "seamless power transfer" to all four wheels. Each Subaru is powered by a Boxer engine, which puts the cylinders in-line and horizontally opposed to each other, unlike other V-type designs or standard in-line engines. The Boxer layout allows for a lower center of gravity, and provides a natural balance for the engine. Subaru's standard warranty provides 3 years/36,000 miles of basic protection and 5 years/60,000 miles of powertrain coverage.

Manuals for Subaru cars:

Subaru Forester

Forester is currently in its third generation. First genii (1997 - 2002) and second genii (2003 - 2008) models pioneered the tall wagon look, and represent the entry level for Subaru SUVs. Four trim levels of Forester are available for 2012: Base; Premium; Limited; and Touring. Two horizontally-opposed Boxer engine options will be produced, a naturally-aspirated 2.5-liter 4-cylinder variant (170 hp) and a turbocharged version (224 hp).

Subaru XV Crosstrek

The Subaru XV Crosstrek might be marketed as crossover, but that usually implies some sort of SUV with carlike attributes. In actuality, the Crosstrek is more like a car with SUV-like attributes. Much like Subaru has done in the past with its Outback model, the smaller XV Crosstrek hatchback features an elevated ride height, a more off-road-ready suspension and rugged looks.

Subaru Tribeca

The Tribeca, Subaru's first midsize sport-utility, is a relatively recent addition to the crossover SUV segment. Bigger and taller than the company's other utility vehicles, it's meant to be a viable alternative to established Japanese crossover competitors as well as other more upscale sport-utilities.The Subaru Tribeca (originally known as the B9 Tribeca) succeeds in that regard. However, there's not much to push the Tribeca beyond that "alternative" status.