Are there any FWD subarus?

Subaru’s lineup centers on all-wheel drive, and as of 2025 there are no front-wheel-drive models offered in the United States. The sole exception to the AWD rule is the rear-wheel-drive BRZ, which is not FWD.

In this article, we explore whether Subaru sells front-wheel-drive cars, how all-wheel drive is applied across the current lineup, and what that means for buyers who are considering traction, weather performance, and overall drivetrain expectations. We’ll also touch on historical context and any regional variations that might come up for non-US markets.

AWD as a core brand feature

Subaru has built its reputation on symmetrical all-wheel drive, a system designed to deliver power to all four wheels for improved traction in rain, snow, and uneven terrain. This approach is central to the brand’s identity and is applied across its current model range in most markets.

Current lineup and FWD status

The following overview outlines the models Subaru currently sells in the United States and how AWD applies to each model. This helps answer whether any FWD configurations exist in the modern lineup.

• Impreza — Symmetrical AWD is standard on all trim levels, including sedan and hatchback variants.


• Crosstrek — AWD is standard across all trims; the model is designed for light off-road use and adverse weather.


• Forester — All trims come with standard Symmetrical AWD, suitable for family practicality and variable conditions.


• Outback — AWD is standard, reflecting its crossover-wagon positioning and capability in rough weather.


• Legacy — The sedan variant typically includes standard AWD in most markets, providing stable handling in diverse conditions.


• Ascent — The three-row SUV is equipped with standard AWD across trims for family utility.


• WRX — A performance-oriented model with standard AWD to optimize acceleration and grip, especially in inclement weather.


• BRZ — This model is rear-wheel drive (RWD) and not AWD, representing a notable exception to Subaru’s AWD-first strategy.

Subaru’s current strategy centers on all-wheel drive for the vast majority of its lineup, with the BRZ as the notable exception that diverges from the AWD norm.

Market variations and historical notes

In discussing FWD, it’s important to distinguish between current offerings in major markets and historical or overseas configurations. Subaru’s U.S. lineup has consistently emphasized AWD as standard; there have been limited, regional variations in drivetrain choices in the past, but there has not been a sustained, production-wide front-wheel-drive option in recent models in major markets. The BRZ remains the only Subaru model that does not use the brand’s symmetrical AWD system, instead adopting rear-wheel drive.

BRZ: the single non-AWD exception

The Subaru BRZ is built on a front-engine, rear-wheel-drive platform developed with Toyota. It does not use Subaru’s symmetrical AWD system, aligning with its sports-car focus and characteristics. This makes the BRZ the sole model in Subaru’s modern lineup that is not AWD, rather than a front-wheel-drive model.

What this means for buyers

For buyers seeking a front-wheel-drive experience, Subaru’s brand lineup may not be the right fit. If AWD is a priority—whether for snow traction, wet-weather stability, or light off-road capability—Subaru offers a broad range of models with standard AWD. If a pure FWD experience is essential, other manufacturers are more likely to provide such options.

Additionally, shoppers should consider that AWD can add weight and affect fuel economy relative to front-wheel-drive platforms. Subaru’s AWD system is engineered for traction and confidence in a wide range of conditions, but the BRZ targets different driving dynamics with its rear-wheel-drive setup.

Summary

In summary, there are no front-wheel-drive Subarus in the current major-market lineup, with all models offering AWD as standard and the BRZ serving as the notable non-AWD exception (being RWD). For most buyers, Subaru’s AWD-focused lineup provides traction and safety benefits, while those who specifically want FWD will need to consider other brands.

Is the Subaru Forester FWD?

Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive.

What is the downside of fwd?

The main disadvantages of front-wheel drive (FWD) are its tendency to understeer, where the car continues straight instead of turning, and torque steer, which is a pulling sensation under acceleration due to unequal axle lengths. Other drawbacks include less stability in slippery conditions, reduced handling precision because the front wheels must both steer and accelerate, increased front tire wear, and lower towing capacity.
 
This video explains the differences between FWD and other drivetrains: 1mThe Engineers PostYouTube · Jan 16, 2022
Handling and stability

• Understeer: Because the front wheels are responsible for both steering and propelling the car, they can lose traction when turning and accelerating, causing the car to slide wide. 
• Torque steer: Unequal drive axle lengths in FWD systems cause the car to pull to one side under hard acceleration, making it harder to control. 
• Reduced stability: The weight of the engine is concentrated at the front, which can lead to less stability, especially in slippery conditions like snow or ice. 
• Less responsive steering: The front wheels doing double duty can lead to a less direct and precise steering feel. 

Performance and durability

• Lower towing capacity: The front wheels have to propel the car while also managing the weight of a trailer, which limits a FWD vehicle's towing ability. 
• Increased tire wear: The front tires have to handle both acceleration and steering forces, leading to faster wear. 
• Maintenance issues: The constant movement of the front CV axles can lead to a shorter service life for their protective boots. 

You can watch this video to learn more about torque steer and understeer in FWD cars: 1mChris VS CarsYouTube · Feb 9, 2022

Has Subaru ever made a FWD?

In the 1960s, Subaru introduced its first truck, the Sambar minitruck. Then in 1966, Subaru unveiled the 1000, the first car equipped with a front-wheel-drive system tied to a horizontally opposed engine.

Are any subarus front wheel drive?

With the exception of the Subaru BRZ, a track-ready sports car with RWD, all Subaru models come with Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. Take a moment to learn more about the drivetrain on each of our Subaru all-wheel drive models.