Subaru STARLINK Navigation
Subaru’s infotainment and navigation system is called STARLINK Multimedia. It’s fitted across the Outback, Forester, XV (now Cross), Impreza and Legacy, with navigation available on higher specification grades. STARLINK uses an SD card for navigation map storage on models up to approximately 2022, after which some variants moved to online connected navigation.
Which Subaru Models Have SD Card Navigation?
- Subaru Outback (BN/BS from 2014, BT from 2020)
- Subaru Forester (SJ from 2013, SK from 2018)
- Subaru XV / Crosstrek (GP from 2012, GT from 2017)
- Subaru Impreza (GP from 2012, GK/GT from 2016)
- Subaru Legacy (BM/BR from 2009)
Navigation is typically standard on SE, SE Premium and above specification levels.
SD Card Slot Location
On STARLINK-equipped Subaru models, the SD card slot is typically located on the lower face of the head unit or inside the centre console storage area. The slot is labelled — check your Subaru handbook for the exact location if you’re unsure.
Checking Your Map Version
From the STARLINK home screen: Menu → Settings → System → Software Information or Map Version. Note both the software version and map version — you’ll need these to confirm you’re ordering the correct update card.
Installing the Map Update
- Start the engine
- Insert the new navigation SD card into the slot
- STARLINK will detect the card and display an update prompt
- Confirm to begin — keep the engine running throughout
- The update typically takes 20–40 minutes
- Leave the card inserted after completion for ongoing navigation use
Subaru e-BOXER Models
Subaru’s mild hybrid e-BOXER models (XV e-BOXER, Forester e-BOXER, Outback) use the same STARLINK navigation system and SD card update process. The hybrid system has no effect on the infotainment or navigation update procedure — update as you would any Subaru with STARLINK.