As an automotive enthusiast and self-proclaimed "car geek", few brands captivate me as much as Subaru. Known for their rugged design, go-anywhere capability, and renowned safety – Subarus have cultivated a devoted following of outdoorsy, adventure-seeking drivers.
In this comprehensive guide, we‘ll explore all the types of Subaru cars and SUVs available today. From the compact Impreza to the family-hauling Ascent, I‘ll highlight the standout qualities of each model and trim. You‘ll learn about Boxer engines, Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, and the advanced safety tech these Japanese vehicles are revered for.
So buckle up as we shift into gear and tour Subaru‘s impressive lineup!
Subaru SUVs: Capable, Spacious, Adventure-Ready
The core of Subaru‘s lineup is their capable family of SUVs, designed with outdoor adventure in mind. Standard all-wheel drive allows them to traverse slippery trails that leave other SUVs spinning their wheels. Turbocharged Boxer engines provide smooth power even at high elevation. And ample cargo space swallows camping gear, kayaks, and more.
Let‘s explore the different SUV options:
Subaru Crosstrek
The Crosstrek blends hatchback driving dynamics with SUV ground clearance and ruggedness. Its 8.7 inches of ground clearance and advanced X-MODE traction system equip it well for forest service roads. The 152HP Boxer engine delivers brisk acceleration, while an optional plug-in hybrid model achieves 90MPGe fuel efficiency.
With up to 43mpg on the highway, the Crosstrek is one efficient little adventurer. It‘s no wonder Kelly Blue Book has named it best resale value in its class three years straight.
Subaru Forester
Beloved as a sensible, adventure-ready family hauler, the Forester packs generous space for passengers and gear. Trims like the new Forester Wilderness come equipped with all-terrain upgrades like protective skid plates, raised suspension, and matte black wheels. Yet it still achieves 33mpg on the highway.
Handsome styling, a suite of driver assist features (more on this later), and best-in-class visibility makes the Forester a smart choice.
Subaru Outback
The Outback is essentially a lifted wagon, combining car-like handling with the rugged attitude of an SUV. Standard roof rails support kayak carriers, bike racks, and cargo boxes to transport your gear into the wild. Generous ground clearance, protective body cladding, and X-MODE give it surprising off-road chops.
This is the Swiss Army Knife of Subaru‘s lineup. With ample passenger and cargo volume, the choice is easy to see why Outbacks account for almost half of Subaru‘s yearly sales. No wonder – they last seemingly forever and hold value remarkably well.
Subaru Ascent
As Subaru‘s largest SUV, the Ascent is a 3-row people hauler spacious enough for big families and their gear. Available captain‘s chairs and a massive cargo area make it our top choice for comfort, even on long road trips. Up to 72 cubic feet of cargo space means you can load this full-size SUV like a pack mule.
With up to 27 highway MPG and a suite of family-friendly features, the Ascent hits a sweet spot between size, efficiency and functionality.
Subaru Sedans & Hatchbacks: Safety-Focused, All-Wheel Drive
While less popular than their SUVs, Subaru sedans and hatchbacks retain the brand‘s focus on safety, reliability and foul weather traction. Available in fun-to-drive performers like the WRX or sensible Impreza, they blend efficiency, practicality and driving enjoyment.
Subaru Impreza
The compact Impreza is a long-running crowd favorite available in hatchback or sedan formats. Nimble handling accompanied by 37 highway MPG makes the Impreza surprisingly fun and efficient. Standard all-wheel drive gives it an edge over rivals in slippery conditions.
Roomier than you‘d expect, the Impreza still suffers from limited cargo space compared to hatchback rivals. But value pricing and high reliability ratings partially offset its limitations.
Subaru Legacy
Subaru‘s midsize sedan pairs refined road manners with foul weather capability. A quiet, comfortable cabin trimmed in high-end materials creates an upscale ambiance missing from some rivals. All-wheel drive comes standard, naturally, accompanied by 36MPG on the highway.
While a smooth ride and generous driver space earn praise, its trunk suffers from small volume compared to rivals like the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord. But don‘t let that stop you – the Legacy is among the highest-rated sedans for owner satisfaction.
Subaru WRX
Developed from Subaru‘s iconic rally racing cars, the sporty WRX blends race-tuned agility with everyday livability. Track-tested suspension tuning delivers razor sharp reflexes without sacrificing compliance and comfort. And Subaru‘s famed turbocharged Boxer engine growls with authority while zooming from 0-60 mph in under 5 seconds.
The functional cabin features seating for five and enough trunk room for a weekly grocery run. Combine that with a 6-speed manual transmission, and you‘ve got an engaging driver‘s car you can also use to pick up the kids.
Subaru Performance Cars: Engaging Drivers’ Vehicles
While small in number, Subaru‘s dedicated performance cars capture the brand‘s rally racing heritage in thrilling fashion. Turbocharged engines, advanced traction systems, and dialed-in chassis tuning equips them wonderfully for twisting backroads.
Subaru BRZ
Developed alongside Toyota, the BRZ coupe provides one of the last stands for lightweight, affordable, rear-wheel drive fun. Weighing under 3,000lbs and boasting a 2.4L naturally aspirated Boxer engine, the BRZ begs you to drop the top and go find some corners.
While horsepower is relatively modest at 228, it‘s enough to deliver 0-60mph in just 6.1 seconds. An engaging 6-speed manual transmission draws you into the experience, though a paddle-shift automatic is available if you insist. With accessible thrills at a reasonable price point, the BRZ keeps driver engagement affordable.
Subaru Electric & Hybrid Vehicles: Eco-Friendly All-Wheel Drive
In keeping with their outdoorsy, eco-friendly image, Subaru now offers impressive hybrid and all-electric models without sacrificing capability.
Subaru Solterra EV
The Solterra EV marks Subaru‘s first foray into battery-electric vehicles. Despite its green credentials, all-wheel drive still comes standard – because Subaru. Level 2 charging enables up to 220 miles of range, while DC fast charging regains 80% charge in around an hour.
Spacious seating for up to 5 is accompanied by generous cargo room. Tech-focused features include over-the-air software updates and Subaru‘s Star Drive driver assistance suite. With Subaru build quality and reliability now available in EV form, the Solterra is a tempting proposition.
Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid
Pairing a 2.0L gas engine with dual electric motors, the Crosstrek Hybrid achieves up to 35MPG combined fuel economy. Priced thousands below competitors, its plug-in hybrid drivetrain achieves 17 miles of EV range before seamlessly transitioning power sources.
Clever packaging retains generous cargo volume despite its battery pack. All the capability you expect from a Subaru comes standard. For those seeking improved efficiency without sacrificing foul-weather traction, the Crosstrek Hybrid checks all the right boxes.
Subaru Safety & Technology: Cutting-Edge Driver Assist
While their all-weather traction garners attention, Subaru vehicles also shine for their cutting-edge safety technologies. Earning consistently high ratings from IIHS and NHTSA crash testing, their reputation for safety is well-earned.
Subaru‘s Eyesight driver assistance suite comes standard across the lineup. It bundles essentials like automatic emergency braking with lane departure alerts to help avoid accidents. Top trims integrate driver monitoring systems to combat distraction and drowsiness. Options like front view monitors improve visibility on tight trails.
LED steering responsive headlights actively pivot into corners, illuminating your path for improved night vision. And extensive use of high-strength steel cages surround occupants with protection.
After studying Subaru‘s approach to safety, their success becomes self-evident. Their commitment to driver awareness and collision avoidance reveals an automaker that prioritizes what matters most.
Why Drivers Are Wild About Subarus
Given their darling status among Northwest residents, what explains the rampant appeal of Subaru vehicles? As an owner myself, I can distill the infatuation into a few key points:
All-Weather Capability: Between ride height, advanced AWD systems, and Grip Control, Subarus shrug off conditions that leave rival SUVs spinning their wheels. Mountain passes, forest service roads, and snowbound streets are handled with ease.
Quality & Reliability: Consistently topping reliability studies, Subarus achieve lengthy lifespans even in the hands of abusive owners. With 96% of vehicles sold in the last 10 years still on the road, they seem impervious to decay.
Safety Credentials: Cutting-edge driver aids and flawless crash test results give you confidence behind the wheel. It‘s no wonder Subaru drivers exhibit almost cult-like dedication.
If you prioritize foul weather traction, outdoor adventure, and leading safety tech, Subaru vehicles check every box. Now let‘s unpack the key questions buyers have about these compelling vehicles.
Frequently Asked Subaru Questions
What does Subaru AWD mean?
Subaru’s highly-regarded AWD systems are optimized for traction in low-grip conditions. By maintaining equal power distribution between front and rear axles, their Symmetrical AWD maximizes traction during acceleration, cornering and braking. Advanced systems like X-MODE fine-tune power delivery, maximizing grip on loose terrain.
What is a Subaru Boxer engine?
Subaru‘s trademark Boxer engines get their name from their horizontally-opposed cylinder layout, mirroring the back-and-forth motion of a boxer’s fists. Lauded for their smooth power delivery, these engines place their weight low in the chassis for better handling. Plus, their layout leaves space for larger crumple zones to better absorb crash impacts.
How long do Subaru cars last?
With proper maintenance, Subarus frequently log 250,000+ miles before requiring major repairs. Their durability means used Subaru models keep their value exceptionally well. In fact, Subarus top ALG’s residual value awards across multiple categories as they just keep going and going.
Why are Subarus popular in the Northwest?
Between mountain passes, frequent rain and snow, and legions of outdoor adventurers always loading up their gear, Subarus are purpose-built for the Northwest. Their reputation for reliability gives owners confidence they can handle miles of forest service roads deep into the Cascades. And Northwest drivers value Subaru‘s commitment to environmental values.
So if you’re ready to join the enthusiastic legions of Subaru owners, now’s the time! Reach out with any other questions – I’m always happy to dig into the incredible capabilities of these vehicles. They may have started as humble station wagons, but Subarus have forged an inspiring legacy they continue building upon today.
