Do Subarus have all-wheel drive or 4 wheel drive?
Most Subarus use all-wheel drive (AWD) rather than four-wheel drive (4WD). In today’s lineup, AWD is standard on nearly all models, with the notable exception of the BRZ, which is rear-wheel drive (RWD). There are no current Subaru models that rely on traditional 4WD with a low-range transfer case.
How Subaru’s drivetrain philosophy works
Subaru markets its approach as Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, a permanent AWD system designed to distribute power evenly to all four wheels for balanced handling and traction in varied conditions. This setup is integrated with a center differential and vehicle dynamics controls to maintain stability, especially in rain, snow, and light off-road conditions. It differs from a traditional 4WD system, which often uses a two-speed transfer case and can be locked for off-road use.
AWD vs 4WD: what’s the difference?
All-wheel drive (AWD) typically operates full-time or on-demand, sending torque to the wheels with the most grip to improve everyday stability on paved roads and in adverse weather. Four-wheel drive (4WD) usually refers to a selectable system with a transfer case and often a low-range gear for rugged off-road use. In Subaru’s lineup, the relevant distinction is that AWD is the standard, permanent setup, while 4WD with a low-range option is not part of modern Subarus.
Current lineup and drivetrain
Below is a snapshot of Subaru models that ship with all-wheel drive as standard in the United States today.
- Forester — Symmetrical AWD standard across trims
- Outback — Symmetrical AWD standard across trims
- Crosstrek — Symmetrical AWD standard (including hybrid versions)
- Legacy — Symmetrical AWD standard
- Impreza — Symmetrical AWD standard
- Ascent — Symmetrical AWD standard
- WRX — Symmetrical AWD standard
Among current models, the notable exception to this AWD rule is the BRZ, a two-door sports coupe that uses rear-wheel drive.
Bottom line
For buyers shopping Subaru today, AWD is the default and most practical choice for traction and stability in all weather. The BRZ stands out as the one current model with rear-wheel drive, while traditional 4WD with a transfer case is not offered in modern Subarus.
Summary
Subaru’s identity in the market centers on all-wheel drive. With few exceptions, nearly every model features Symmetrical AWD as standard, providing balanced traction across conditions. The sole notable exception is the BRZ, which uses rear-wheel drive. If you’re seeking typical 4WD capability, you won’t find it in Subaru’s current lineup; AWD is the practical standard for everyday driving and inclement weather.
Is Subaru a four wheel drive?
Yes, nearly all Subaru models are 4-wheel drive, using a standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, with the exception of the BRZ sports car. This system is designed to provide traction and stability at all times by automatically and constantly distributing power to all four wheels as needed, unlike traditional 4x4 systems that often need to be manually engaged.
You can watch this video to learn how Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system works: 59sSubaruYouTube · Jan 27, 2023
- Standard on most models: Every new Subaru vehicle, including cars and SUVs, comes standard with Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, except for the BRZ.
- Always active: The system is always on, so power is continuously sent to all four wheels to help with traction in various conditions, from dry roads to snow and rain.
- Automatic power distribution: The system automatically adjusts power to the wheels with the most grip to maintain control and prevent slipping without any input from the driver.
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.
Do all Subarus have AWD or 4WD?
Every model in the Subaru lineup except the Subaru BRZ comes standard with an AWD system. While the type of AWD system may vary slightly between models, they all come equipped with it. Almost all used Subaru vehicles also have AWD.
Which Subaru has all-wheel drive?
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. Take a moment to learn more about the drivetrain on each of our Subaru all-wheel drive models.
