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Subaru SI-Drive

Some Subarus are equipped with additional driver controls on automatic models that allow you to control the driving experience called SI-Drive. If you’ve ever wondered what the different modes mean, we’ll outline them below.

Subaru Outback H6 with central button to control the driving mode.
Subaru Outback H6 with driving mode selector

If you have an SI-Drive driving mode selector, it usually won’t be engaged until you choose a mode. That means the Subaru will stay in a default mode that equalizes power and fuel economy.

Intelligent Mode
If you push the knob, you’ll engage the [I] Intelligent mode. In this setting, your Subaru will change your drive settings to maximize fuel economy. It does this by opening the throttle more gradually and shifting the car more smoothly to deliver more efficient driving and reduce your Subaru’s emissions. The team here at Soobie Surgeons prefers this mode for the majority of the team, because it gives you the most comfortable ride and the only hurry we’re in is to get your car back to you!

Sport Mode
In sport mode, the throttle responds more swiftly than in intelligent mode, but still keeps the throttle and transmission settings mellow to allow for a mix of power and mileage. Sport mode is ideal for daily driving, as it allows for good highway driving and cruising down thoroughfares.

Sport Sharp (#) Mode
Pocket rocket? No, just sport sharp mode. Sport sharp allows your Subaru’s throttle to be the most responsive it can be. Between the throttle and quick shifting of the transmission, sport sharp mode gives you the most aggressive power of the three modes. Your Subaru will stay in its lower gears for a longer amount of time before shifting, so you’ll be zooming in no time. This mode is the best when you’re in the mood for a joyride, or you’re looking to accelerate quickly onto the highway.


Driving in the rain

Driving in the rain

Your Subaru’s all wheel drive provides great traction in the rain, but here are some tips you can follow to be even safer in the spring storms! Next time you’re out in your Forester, Outback, Impreza, Ascent, or Legacy, you can keep yourself safe by following these six simple guidelines.

Six tips for safe driving in bad weather, highlighted lower on the page.
Photo courtesy of Oregon DOT
  1. Turn on your windshield wipers – This is a no-brainer, but are your wipers up to snuff? They ought to be replaced on your Subaru every six months.
  2. Turn on your headlights – It’s important to make sure your Subaru’s headlights, low beams and turn signals are all working correctly. Check these out by having someone else work the controls while you stand in front of your car. In inclement weather, having your low beams on will help other drivers to see you.
  3. Turn off your cruise control – Cruise control is a great way to save on gas and do your part for the environment by getting the most miles per gallon you can get in your Subaru. However, during inclement weather its important you stay alert and in full control of your Subaru.
  4. Slow down – Slippery roads make it difficult to stop, even with all wheel drive, so make sure you give yourself extra reaction time by slowing down.
  5. Increase your stopping distance – Like slowing down, increasing the distance between yourself and the vehicle in front of you will give you more time to react if the car in front of you starts to slip. Subaru’s eyesight technology on new cars can assist with stopping, but its still important to keep a safe distance, even in normal driving conditions.
  6. Steer clear of standing water – Rain can cause large puddles to form on the road, which will it turn cause you to hydroplane and lose control of your Subaru. Do your best to avoid water on the road, especially because you never know how deep it may be!

As always, Soobie Surgeons can help you make sure everything is working on your Subaru. Your safety and comfort is our priority!


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