Subaru X-Mode is a software program engineered to increase traction and control under the most vicious road conditions. It is a feature that is standard on all Ascent, Crosstrek, Forester, and Outback models equipped with the Lineartronic CVT. X-Mode works in addition to the all-wheel-drive system to give drivers even greater traction and control. Here are some key features of X-Mode:

• X-Mode uses lower gear ratios to generate extra power at the wheels, which helps the driver make the most of the power that is available.
• AWD control is improved by raising the front/rear coupling force when X-Mode is ON, which helps the driver drive power more evenly between the four wheels, maximizing the traction of the tires.
• Hill Descent Control helps maintain vehicle starting speed for safer maneuvering at low speeds (under 12 mph) .
• X-Mode complements Subaru symmetrical full-time AWD to allow drivers to take the road less traveled, get muddier, and have more daring adventures.
• X-Mode provides advanced, all-road capability and rugged performance, especially on uneven surfaces or challenging inclines.
• X-Mode has two different settings tailored to specific driving conditions, namely, snow/dirt and deep snow/mud.

Subaru X-Mode uses sensors to learn when wheels are losing traction, and it makes changes to other components of the vehicle to maintain traction in the most challenging situations.