Are subarus fwd or rwd?
Subarus are predominantly all-wheel drive (AWD) across the lineup; the notable exception is the BRZ, which uses rear-wheel drive (RWD). There are no mainstream front-wheel-drive Subarus sold in the United States today.
To understand what that means, this article explains how Subaru configures its drivetrains, which models use AWD or RWD, and what that implies for performance, safety, and ownership in different conditions.
Subaru's drivetrain philosophy
Here are the core Subaru models and their drivetrains as of model-year 2024–25, reflecting the brand's emphasis on all-wheel traction.
- Forester — AWD standard (Symmetrical AWD)
- Outback — AWD standard (Symmetrical AWD)
- Impreza — AWD standard (Symmetrical AWD)
- Crosstrek — AWD standard (Symmetrical AWD)
- Legacy — AWD standard (Symmetrical AWD)
- WRX — AWD standard (Symmetrical AWD)
- Ascent — AWD standard (Symmetrical AWD)
- BRZ — Rear-wheel drive (RWD)
In practice, Subaru positions itself as an all-wheel-drive brand, underscoring traction and stability in poor weather, with the BRZ representing its sole non-AWD model in the current lineup.
Why AWD is central to Subaru
Symmetrical AWD design
Subaru’s Symmetrical AWD uses a balanced drivetrain layout with a horizontally opposed engine and a direct connection to the wheels. This configuration aims for even weight distribution, reduced drivetrain losses, and consistent traction along the vehicle’s centerline.
Safety and performance benefits
AWD helps with grip during acceleration on wet or snowy roads and can improve stability in corners. Subaru also pairs AWD with stability control and driver-assistance tech to enhance overall safety and confidence behind the wheel.
The BRZ exception: RWD sports car in the lineup
Why BRZ is RWD
Developed in partnership with Toyota, the BRZ is designed as a rear-wheel-drive sports coupe that prioritizes driver engagement, balance, and a traditional FR (front-engine, rear-wheel-drive) layout. AWD is not offered on the BRZ.
What this means for buyers
For shoppers in regions with winter weather or variable conditions, Subaru’s AWD lineup provides traction and peace of mind across most models. If a buyer specifically wants a pure rear-wheel-drive experience for sport-oriented driving, the BRZ is the relevant option, though it lacks AWD traction. Overall, new Subarus in the U.S. market today are not marketed with FWD options; AWD is the prevailing standard except for the BRZ.
Summary
Subaru has built a reputation around all-wheel drive, with nearly every model offering AWD as standard. The BRZ stands out as the sole exception with rear-wheel drive, making Subaru a brand commonly associated with AWD performance and stability rather than front-wheel-drive dynamics.
Are there any subarus that are RWD?
You might have heard that every Subaru is an AWD model, but are all Subarus really AWD? With the exception of the Subaru BRZ, a track-ready sports car with RWD, all Subaru models come with Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive.
Are there subarus without AWD?
Every vehicle in the Subaru lineup comes standard with Subaru AWD, except the BRZ sports car.
Is there any FWD Subaru?
Subaru has offered front- and all-wheel drive layouts for the Impreza.
Is Subaru RWD or FWD?
Subaru calls its all-wheel drive design symmetrical because of how the vehicle's engine and drivetrain are arranged. The two halves would look like mirror images if you cut a Subaru in half from front to back, making it symmetrical.
