Home FAQ

Do all subarus have 4 wheel drive?

Not exactly. Subaru is renowned for its all-wheel-drive heritage, and most models come with symmetrical AWD. However, the BRZ sports coupe is rear-wheel drive, and that remains the sole non-AWD model in the current lineup.

Why AWD is a brand hallmark

Since the company’s modern era began, Subaru has prioritized all-wheel drive as a core feature. AWD is marketed as a key safety and performance advantage, particularly in winter conditions, rain, and uneven terrain. This approach distinguishes Subaru from many mainstream brands that offer AWD only on select trims or as an option.

Which Subarus typically come with AWD

AWD is standard on most current Subaru models

The following models are commonly equipped with symmetrical AWD as standard or widely available across trim levels. Always check the exact transmission on the trim you’re considering, as configurations can vary by country or model year.

Impreza (sedan and hatchback)

Forester

Outback

Legacy

Crosstrek (XV)

Ascent

WRX and WRX STI

In summary, the vast majority of the current Subaru lineup emphasizes AWD, making it a distinguishing feature for most buyers who choose Subaru. Always verify the drivetrain on the exact trim and market you’re shopping in, as there can be regional differences.

The exception: a rear‑wheel‑drive sports option

BRZ and its GR86 counterpart

The BRZ is designed as a lightweight, rear-wheel-drive sports coupe. It shares its platform with the Toyota GR86, which is also rear-wheel drive. This pairing remains the only current Subaru model that does not use AWD, and there is no factory AWD option offered for these specific sports coupes in the U.S. lineup.

Subaru BRZ — rear-wheel drive

Toyota GR86 — rear-wheel drive (the Toyota counterpart)

For buyers seeking AWD in a performance-oriented package, Subaru’s WRX or other practical models offer AWD, while the BRZ/GR86 family targets enthusiasts with a different drivetrain philosophy.

Summary

In the current lineup, Subaru’s reputation for AWD is mostly accurate: most models use symmetrical AWD as standard, delivering enhanced traction and stability. The notable exception is the BRZ, which is rear-wheel drive (with the GR86 serving as its Toyota sibling). If AWD is a priority, you’ll find it across most models; if you’re drawn to a pure rear-drive sports car, the BRZ/GR86 pairing fits that niche.

Are there two wheel drive subarus?

Standard two-wheel drive vehicles, like the Subaru BRZ, offer the best bang for your buck. They also offer the best gas mileage, so you can keep saving even after you take home your 2WD.

Are AWD and 4WD the same?

No, AWD (all-wheel drive) and 4WD (four-wheel drive) are not the same, though they both send power to all four wheels. The key difference is that AWD is designed for on-road performance and automatically engages, while 4WD is for off-road capability and typically requires driver input to lock the system for more extreme conditions.
All-Wheel Drive (AWD)

Function: Designed for safety and performance on paved and unpaved roads, automatically sending power to all four wheels when needed, such as during slippage.
System: Uses a center differential to send power to the wheels. In many systems, the car primarily runs in two-wheel drive until sensors detect wheel slip and engage the all-wheel drive system.
Best for: Everyday driving in various weather conditions like rain, snow, or ice.
Considerations: Less fuel-efficient than 2WD but generally more fuel-efficient than 4WD, as it's less complex and doesn't always have all four wheels powered.

Four-Wheel Drive (4WD)

Function: Designed for serious off-road use, providing maximum traction and torque.
System: Typically uses a transfer case that allows the driver to manually engage 4WD. Some systems can lock the differentials for more extreme off-road situations, which is not usually possible with AWD.
Best for: Off-roading in deep snow, mud, sand, or other challenging terrain.
Considerations: Adds weight and complexity, which can impact fuel efficiency and handling on pavement. It may also require a specific mode for use on dry, paved roads to avoid damaging the drivetrain.

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.

Is Subaru AWD the same as 4WD?

Subaru uses an All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, which is different from traditional Four-Wheel Drive (4WD) because it is automatically and continuously engaged, providing a balance of performance and efficiency for daily driving. In contrast, 4WD systems are typically manually engaged for more demanding off-road conditions and are not designed for continuous use on pavement. Subaru's Symmetrical AWD continuously distributes power to all four wheels to improve traction in various conditions, while 4WD is primarily for heavy-duty off-roading and towing.
Subaru AWD vs. traditional 4WD

Feature	Subaru AWD	Traditional 4WD
Operation	Fully automatic and continuous; system automatically adjusts power to all four wheels	Typically requires manual engagement by the driver
Design	Aims to balance on-road performance and efficiency for everyday use	Designed for maximum traction in low-speed, off-road, and extreme conditions
Power Distribution	Power is continuously distributed and can shift between the front and rear axles based on real-time sensor data	Power is often locked to both front and rear axles for equal torque, which can cause issues when turning on high-traction surfaces
Best For	All-weather driving (rain, snow, ice), stability, and improved acceleration on paved roads	Rough off-road terrain, rock crawling, and towing heavy loads
Subaru Systems	Subaru's Symmetrical AWD is a permanent, continuous system. Some models also feature "X-Mode" for enhanced low-speed traction control in slippery situations.	Not available on standard Subaru models; found on dedicated off-road or truck-focused competitors

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.