
Subaru is a brand that’s long been admired for its all-wheel-drive vehicles, reliability, and rugged appeal. Whether you’re tackling snow-covered roads, enjoying a weekend adventure, or commuting through city streets, Subaru cars have something to offer. However, Subaru has a wide variety of models, each with its own version and trim level, which can make it challenging to decide which is the right fit for you.
In this post, we’ll break down what car buyers should consider when trying to decide between different versions of Subaru cars, from the compact sedans and hatchbacks to SUVs and performance models. Let’s dive in!
1. Consider the Type of Subaru: Sedan, Hatchback, or SUV
The first step in choosing the right Subaru is determining what type of vehicle fits your needs. Subaru offers a range of body styles, each designed for different purposes.
- Sedans: If you’re looking for something smaller and more fuel-efficient, Subaru sedans like the Impreza and Legacy are good options. The Impreza, available in both sedan and hatchback versions, is a compact car ideal for city driving, while the Legacy offers more space and a more refined ride.
- Hatchbacks: If you want something more versatile than a sedan, Subaru’s Impreza Hatchback and Crosstrek offer a combination of practicality and sportiness. They offer more cargo space while still maintaining good fuel efficiency.
- SUVs: Subaru’s Forester, Outback, and Ascent are great choices for anyone who needs more space, comfort, and off-road capability. The Forester is compact and practical, the Outback blends the utility of an SUV with the comfort of a wagon, and the Ascent is perfect for larger families with three rows of seating.
2. Evaluate Your Performance Needs
Subaru is known for its all-wheel-drive (AWD) technology, which comes standard in almost all of its models, ensuring enhanced stability and traction in challenging weather conditions. But beyond AWD, you’ll want to consider performance aspects like horsepower, towing capacity, and off-road capabilities.
- For performance-oriented buyers: The Subaru WRX and Subaru BRZ offer a sportier driving experience. The WRX, known for its rally-inspired performance, offers a turbocharged engine and great handling, while the BRZ is a rear-wheel-drive sports coupe ideal for those who enjoy agile cornering and a fun, responsive ride.
- For off-road enthusiasts: Subaru’s Outback and Crosstrek are fantastic choices for drivers who like to venture off the beaten path. Both models are equipped with Subaru’s X-Mode and Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, making them capable off-road vehicles. The Outback offers more rugged features and higher ground clearance, while the Crosstrek is more compact and maneuverable for tight trails.
- For everyday driving with moderate power: The Forester and Legacy provide an excellent balance of power and efficiency. The Forester is ideal for those who want a versatile, family-friendly SUV, while the Legacy provides a more refined driving experience, ideal for long commutes and road trips.
3. Trim Levels and Features
One of the most important factors when deciding between different Subaru models is choosing the right trim level. Each Subaru model comes in multiple trims, with various features, performance enhancements, and price points. Here’s what to look for:
- Base Trim: Subaru’s base models are a great option if you’re on a budget or simply need a reliable, straightforward car with the essential features. Expect standard features like AWD, basic infotainment, and safety technology.
- Premium Trims: The Premium trim is often the sweet spot, offering a good balance of added features like a larger touchscreen, advanced driver assistance systems, and enhanced interior materials. This trim is great for buyers who want a bit more luxury and comfort without going overboard.
- Sport and Limited Trims: The Sport and Limited trims come with extra features like a power-adjustable driver’s seat, heated seats, premium sound systems, and more advanced tech. These trims are perfect for buyers looking for more comfort and technology but without jumping to the highest trim.
- Touring and Wilderness Models: If you want the most features and ruggedness, Subaru’s Touring and Wilderness trims are the most feature-packed. The Wilderness trims, available for models like the Outback and Forester, offer off-road-oriented features like skid plates, enhanced suspension, and rugged tires. Meanwhile, Touring trims focus on luxury with leather upholstery, upgraded tech, and advanced safety features.
4. Think About Space and Comfort Needs
Subaru is well-known for providing ample space in its vehicles, but the amount of space varies significantly across its models. Whether you need space for family, pets, or cargo, consider the following:
- Small and Compact: The Impreza and Crosstrek are perfect for those who need a smaller, easy-to-park vehicle but still want Subaru’s AWD capabilities. While they offer decent interior space, they’re best suited for smaller families or solo drivers with moderate cargo needs.
- Medium-Sized Families: The Forester and Outback are ideal for medium-sized families. They have generous cabin space, with the Outback offering slightly more cargo room and the Forester delivering a spacious interior with excellent visibility.
- Larger Families: For larger families or those who frequently transport a lot of gear, the Ascent is Subaru’s full-size SUV with three-row seating. It has ample passenger and cargo space, making it an ideal choice for families with more than two children or anyone who needs to haul heavy loads.
5. Safety Features and Technology
Subaru has earned a reputation for its commitment to safety, and every new Subaru comes with EyeSight Driver Assist Technology as standard, which includes features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and pre-collision braking. However, higher trims come with even more advanced safety features:
- DriverFocus Distraction Mitigation System: Available on higher trims of models like the Outback and Forester, this system uses facial recognition to detect if a driver is distracted or drowsy.
- Starlink Multimedia System: Subaru’s infotainment system, Starlink, is standard on most models, but higher trims often offer larger touchscreens, navigation, and better connectivity features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
6. Fuel Efficiency
Fuel efficiency can vary between Subaru models, especially when comparing sedans to SUVs. Generally, Subaru’s smaller cars, like the Impreza, are more fuel-efficient, with an average of around 30-36 mpg on the highway. The Crosstrek also offers a great balance of fuel efficiency and rugged capability. On the other hand, larger models like the Outback and Ascent have slightly lower fuel economy, with the Outback achieving around 33 mpg on the highway and the Ascent around 27 mpg.
7. Budget Considerations
Subaru vehicles are known for their longevity, and while they tend to be priced higher than some competitors, their reliability and resale value make them a good long-term investment. Start by setting a budget and determining what you need in terms of space, performance, and features. Subaru models typically start around the mid-$20,000 range for base trims, with higher trims going up to the mid-$40,000 range for fully loaded models like the Outback Touring or Ascent Limited.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Subaru for You
Subaru has a model for nearly every kind of driver, whether you need a compact car, a rugged off-roader, or a spacious family vehicle. When deciding between different versions of Subaru cars, consider your specific needs: Do you prioritize performance, space, or off-road capability? Would you rather have a more affordable, basic model or a feature-rich trim? By keeping these factors in mind, you’ll be able to make a more informed decision and find the Subaru that perfectly fits your lifestyle.