Did Subaru ever make a 4WD?
Yes. Subaru has built four-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive systems for decades, and AWD has become a defining feature of the brand.
Subaru’s four-wheel-drive story goes back to the early 1970s, with the Leone offering a 4WD option. Over time, AWD became more widespread and refined, culminating in the brand’s now-identity Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and its broad lineup of AWD-equipped vehicles.
A timeline of Subaru's four-wheel-drive lineage
To understand Subaru's AWD commitment, here is a concise timeline of key milestones and models that featured four-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.
Early 1970s: Leone introduces 4WD
In 1972 Subaru launched the Leone with a four-wheel-drive option in many markets, marking the brand’s first production use of AWD/4WD technology.
1980s–1990s: AWD expands across the lineup
Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Subaru broadened AWD availability across more models, including sedans, wagons, and early SUVs, with configurations designed to handle varied terrain and weather.
Mid-1990s: Symmetrical AWD becomes a brand feature
In the mid-1990s Subaru formalized its all-wheel-drive approach with the Symmetrical AWD layout—engine, transmission, and drivetrain aligned in a straight line with a center differential—for balanced handling and traction.
Key models and their AWD heritage
The following model lineages illustrate Subaru's emphasis on four-wheel drive and all-wheel drive. The list below highlights notable models and how AWD was integrated.
- Leone (early 1970s): first production model to offer a 4WD option in many markets.
- Legacy family (1990s): introduced Symmetrical AWD, shaping the brand's technology philosophy.
- Impreza family (1990s): popularized AWD in a compact car format; later the WRX/STI variants amplified AWD performance cues.
- Outback (1994–): a Legacy-derived wagon with AWD that helped popularize the crossover/estate segment.
- Forester (1997–): SUV with AWD as standard or widely available across trims.
- Crosstrek/XV (2012–): compact crossover where AWD is standard or widely available in most trims.
Note: Exact availability and drivetrain configurations vary by market and model year, but AWD has remained a core feature across Subaru's mainstream lineup.
Current status: AWD remains a Subaru hallmark
Today, Subaru continues to market its vehicles with all-wheel drive as a core attribute. The brand’s platform strategy centers on Symmetrical AWD paired with a horizontally opposed engine and refined all-weather performance, features that underpin Subarus across the lineup—from sedans and wagons to SUVs and crossovers.
Summary
Yes—Subaru has a long history of four-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive vehicles, beginning in the early 1970s with the Leone. AWD became a defining feature of the brand, culminating in the Symmetrical AWD system and a lineup in which models like Impreza, Legacy, Outback, Forester, and Crosstrek routinely use AWD to deliver traction and confidence in diverse conditions.
Did Subaru ever make a 4x4?
At the start of the 1970s, Subaru introduced the GL/DL sedan and related vehicles with four-wheel-drive (4WD), offered for the first time on an on-road vehicle.
What year did Subaru go all-wheel drive?
1972
The Symmetrical All Wheel Drive drive-train layout was introduced in 1972. Both became standard equipment for mid-size and smaller cars in most markets by 1996.
What was the first Subaru 4WD?
The Subaru Leone 4WD Estate Van, Japan's first AWD passenger car, was introduced to the market in September 1, 1972. FHI had started mass production of Leone 4WDs at its Gunma plant in July 1972.
Is AWD or 4WD better in snow?
AWD is better for daily driving on plowed and maintained roads. It automatically adjusts to changing conditions without driver input. 4WD is better for extreme conditions—like deep, unplowed snow or backcountry adventures where extra control and torque are essential.
