Can the Subaru Forester Drive on Sand?
Subarus of all kinds are known for their ability to handle precarious offroad conditions. However, even though Subaru vehicles typically have all-wheel drive, experienced drivers still might be hesitant to drive their Subaru into sandy beach conditions to avoid the risk of becoming stuck in sand. The Subaru Forester is indeed an AWD (all-wheel drive) vehicle that is capable of handling sandy conditions. However, recent models include various traction control measures that assist with these conditions, such as the dual-function X-Mode. This essentially allows users to input the conditions they are experiencing (dry sand/dirt/snow powder or deep snow/mud), which allows the computer-controlled engine to control the amount of throttle and engine output accordingly. This helps the driver to maintain control and ensure that they can escape situations where other vehicles would get stuck. That said, it is still recommended that drivers maintain awareness of off road conditions and come prepared with assistive devices (air pumps/tire gauge, shovel, traction boards, etc.) should conditions warrant them.
How does X-mode keep you from Getting Stuck?
In almost all modern cars, traction control is an included feature that assists drivers from falling prey to adverse road conditions. When the car detects slippage, whether due to rain, ice, or other conditions, traction control works by dictating how much throttle and engine output is applied to ensure the vehicle does not lose control. In general, Subaru’s X-Mode works as an upgraded traction control. Essentially, X-Mode serves the same role as traditional traction control but includes inputs so that the driver can tell the car what conditions they are driving in to maximize the effectiveness of the system. For example, if a driver was driving their new Subaru Forester in loose dry conditions like the beach or a dirt road, they could select that option, allowing their Forester to input the proper amount of throttle control to best get out of that situation. With this technology, Subaru’s X-Mode greatly improves a driver’s ability to escape situations that normal cars and trucks would struggle to escape
Does X-mode Work in the Dirt and the Snow?
Subaru’s X-Mode, as an improved traction control system, is specially designed to work in adverse conditions, such as loose dirt or fresh powdery snow. Designed as a dual-function traction control system, X-Mode is designed to handle two separate categories of adverse conditions: Deep Snow/Mud and Snow/Dirt. As the title implies, both dirt and snow are conditions well handled by this setting, but also include conditions such as loose gravel and slippery or wet rocks. In this setting, X-Mode improves control and traction by determining engine/throttle input, reducing wheelspin, and directing power to specific wheels that have the most traction and grip. In downhill settings, X-Mode works to ensure a consistently slow and even speed, making sure that the vehicle does not lose control, in snow or on the beach!
How does X-mode help Off-road?
There are several ways that Subaru’s X-Mode improves performance for the Forester and other recent Subaru models. X-Mode includes dual settings, both for Deep Snow/Mud-like conditions and for Snow/Dirt conditions. Because these are essentially improved traction control devices, X-Mode improves driving performance in these conditions by limiting the amount of control to the throttle as well as inputting specific amounts of power to individual wheels. When combined with the higher amount of torque and engine power generated by the 2.5-liter engine, this allows drivers to ensure that they are able to conquer any adverse off-road conditions with ease, whether the road is path cut across the beach, or made of loose dirt, rocks, or mud!
When to use Subaru’s Dual function X-mode
Because the all-new model Subaru Foresters include standard traction control, there is little need to use the X-Mode functionality when driving on paved roads and other surfaces. X-Mode is designed to be used when Forester drivers encounter difficult off-road terrain, such as beaches, gravel, ice/snow, and muddy roads. Although most Subarus come standard with AWD, it is recommended to use X-Mode control settings when encountering more difficult conditions, as it will help ensure that drivers do not get stuck.
Test Drive an X-mode on a Subaru Forester at Rafferty Subaru
If you are an outdoorsy individual, someone with a family, or just interested in Subarus in general, there is likely some aspect of the Subaru Forester that will interest you. Regardless of your lifestyle, ensuring that you and your family stay safe when driving or riding in a vehicle is paramount. Subarus are well-known for their safety features, and X-Mode further improves their reliability and safety, when driving on the roads or on the beach! Stop by Rafferty Subaru today to try out the new Subaru Forester and experience the incredibly safe and reliable Subaru Forester.
