Subaru X-MODE technology is perfect for when you refuse to let tough conditions limit your adventures. This advanced system, in concert with Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD), combines smart engineering with easy operation to deliver confidence-inspiring performance when you need it most. Whether you’re navigating winter storms in the Poconos or just exploring back-country trails, X-MODE delivers the capability you need. Our team at John Kennedy Subaru Plymouth has put together this guide to tell you all there is to know about Subaru X-MODE.
What Is X-MODE in a Subaru?
You can think of Subaru X-MODE as your vehicle’s off-road coach. It’s a driver-activated system that gives you better control on slippery surfaces such as mud, snow, and gravel, making it perfect for Pennsylvania’s varied landscape, working with Subaru’s AWD to boost performance when conditions get tricky. What makes it special is its ability to deliver power gradually to stop wheel spin, keep you in lower gears on steep climbs, and spread power more evenly between the front and rear wheels.
X-MODE amps up the electronically-controlled limited-slip differential and uses Subaru Intelligent Drive technology across your engine, transmission, and other components. You’ll find standard X-MODE on the base Ascent, Crosstrek, Outback, and Premium Forester models, while the dual-mode system comes optional on select trims and standard on all Solterra models. The dual-mode system gives you preset modes for snow/dirt and deep snow/mud conditions, which can be pretty handy when you’re picking the right setting for different terrain.
Ground clearance varies across Subaru’s lineup to maximize off-road ability. The 2025 Crosstrek with X-MODE gets up to 9.3 inches of clearance on the Wilderness trim and 8.7 inches on other trims. Dual-function X-MODE with 8.7 inches of ground clearance is available on the Sport, Limited, and Touring trims of the Forester. The 2025 Outback comes with X-MODE and 9.5 inches of clearance on the Wilderness trim (8.7 inches on other trims), while the 2025 Solterra electric SUV features X-MODE with 8.3 inches of ground clearance.
How To Use X-MODE Effectively
Getting X-MODE going is as simple as pushing a button that controls five vehicle systems at once: engine management, transmission control, AWD coupling logic, brake integration, and hill-descent control. You can activate it below 25 mph, and it’ll work up to 18 mph max. If you go faster than that, it shuts off automatically for safety. Hill-descent control kicks in below 12 mph and handles your throttle and brakes on steep downhills, so you can focus on steering while it controls your speed.
The dual-function modes include Snow/Dirt for moderate conditions and Deep Snow/Mud for tougher situations. Use Snow/Dirt when you’re dealing with light snow, gravel roads, or dirt trails with decent traction. Pick Deep Snow/Mud when you’re facing deeper snow, thick mud, or super slippery conditions that need maximum help. There are speed limits and specific scenarios where each mode works best.
X-MODE uses more fuel when it’s on, so only turn it on for tough driving, not highway cruising. If you want to be really smart, activate it before you hit difficult terrain, not after you’re already stuck. Just don’t forget to turn it off when you return to normal driving — your wallet will thank you.
Real-World Applications of X-MODE
Pennsylvania winters create perfect X-MODE scenarios. The state spends about $171 million yearly on winter road prep, using 2,238 plow trucks and 396 rental trucks to clear 95,000 total snow lane miles. Even with all that preparation, Pennsylvania still sees too many fatalities on snowy and icy roads due to aggressive driving, speeding, and careless lane changes. Winter temps range from 19°F to 33°F with roughly 38 inches of annual snowfall, creating conditions for rain, sleet, snow, and hail. X-MODE gives you the confidence to drive and survive in any weather.
X-MODE spreads torque across all four wheels, mimicking a locked differential effect, which makes it perfect for deep ruts, steep climbs, and slippery mud. A pro tip from users: disable vehicle stability control in low-traction spots since it can cut power during wheel slip.
The Advantages of X-MODE in Modern Driving
X-MODE transforms Subaru vehicles into capable adventure machines, and their safety credentials are impressive. For example, the Subaru Outback earned a five-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Administration and a Top Safety Pick from the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety, with standard EyeSight driver-assist technology working alongside X-MODE capabilities. Standard Symmetrical AWD provides traction in all weather and trail conditions, while standard front skid plates give extra protection against obstacles.
According to Consumer Reports, Subaru ranks number one in dependability, which says something about their commitment to long-term reliability. About 97% of Outback vehicles from the last 10 years are still on the road, with the Subaru Crosstrek ranking first out of 26 compact SUVs with a reliability rating of 4.5/5 and an average annual repair cost of $492, according to RepairPal. J.D. Power reliability scores show consistent improvement, with the 2024 Crosstrek hitting 85/100. To learn more about X-MODE tech or Subaru’s safety features, contact us for expert guidance.
Experience X-MODE Technology at John Kennedy Subaru Plymouth
If you’re ready to experience the confidence that comes with X-MODE, visit us at John Kennedy Subaru Plymouth and test-drive any X-MODE-equipped vehicle. Our knowledgeable team will show you how this innovative technology can transform your driving experience, whether you’re commuting through winter weather or exploring Pennsylvania’s most demanding terrain. Once you own a Subaru with X-MODE technology, our expert service team can help you maintain optimal performance for years of dependable operation.
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