Do Subarus have good suspension?
Subarus generally offer a comfortable, stable ride with confident handling in everyday driving, and most trims balance comfort with control. Sport-focused versions like the WRX or BRZ trade some comfort for sharper cornering, while larger or off-road oriented models provide more suspension travel for uneven surfaces.
How Subaru suspensions are engineered
The way a car rides is the result of a combination of chassis design, suspension geometry, and tuning. Subaru keeps a few core principles front and center across most of its lineup: stability in varied weather, a balanced feel through corners, and ride quality that suits daily driving as well as light off-road use. Below are the main factors that shape how Subarus ride on real roads.
- Symmetrical all-wheel drive (AWD) and a relatively low center of gravity help track stability and predictable handling in rain, snow, and on rough pavement.
- Most Subarus use an independent suspension setup on both ends, which improves bump absorption and tire contact with the road compared with simpler configurations.
- Suspension tuning for mainstream models emphasizes comfort and stability, smoothing out road imperfections without sacrificing control.
- Sport-oriented trims (such as WRX and BRZ) typically feature stiffer, sport-tuned suspensions designed for sharper steering response and reduced body roll, at the expense of some ride comfort.
- Chassis and subframe design are aimed at minimizing harshness from rough surfaces while maintaining predictable cornering dynamics.
Overall, the suspension approach across most Subarus aims to deliver a composed ride in everyday conditions, with clear trade-offs when you opt for sportier variants. For shoppers prioritizing comfort and stability, the bulk of the lineup tends to deliver a favorable balance.
Model-by-model ride characteristics
Different Subaru models and trims tilt more toward comfort or sport, affecting everyday ride feel. Here’s a snapshot of how popular models tend to ride in typical configurations.
- Outback: A comfortable, highway-friendly ride with a touch more road noise than some sedans, plus solid stability at speed and good capability for light off-road use.
- Forester: Emphasizes a soft, forgiving ride and ample passenger comfort, with predictable handling and good visibility.
- Crosstrek: Maintains comfort with a bit more tire compliance; the higher ride height can make road texture more noticeable, but it remains capable in light off-road conditions.
- Legacy: Generally refined and quiet with a smooth highway demeanor and ample damping to absorb imperfections.
- WRX and BRZ: Sport-tuned suspensions deliver firmer, more responsive handling and sharper cornering, but ride quality on rough pavement is noticeably stiffer.
- Ascent: Large SUV with a balanced ride for its size; stabilizes well on highways and handles bumps more comfortably than a sport-focused model.
In practice, if ride comfort is the priority, non-sport trims and models with larger wheel wells and touring-oriented tires tend to feel smoother. For enthusiasts seeking performance, the sport-oriented variants offer tighter control and quicker response at the cost of some comfort on rough roads.
Tips for improving ride comfort
If you already own a Subaru and want to maximize comfort, or you’re choosing between trims, these practices can help you land on a smoother ride.
- Choose tires that emphasize comfort and grip. OEM tires with a softer sidewall and touring tread typically deliver a smoother feel than ultra-high-performance or low-profile options.
- Regularly check tire pressures, wheel alignment, and tire wear. Misalignment or uneven wear can amplify stiffness and bouncing over bumps.
- Ensure shocks/struts and suspension bushings are in good condition. Worn components can make a ride feel harsh and unstable, especially on rough roads.
- For a smoother highway ride, consider wheels with a slightly taller sidewall (within manufacturer specs) to increase sidewall flex and dampen small road imperfections.
- Balance and rotate tires as recommended. Improves overall ride feel and reduces vibration or noise transmitted through the suspension.
These steps can help you tailor ride comfort to your local roads and driving style while preserving the underlying stability that Subarus are known for.
Summary
Subaru’s suspension philosophy centers on stability, balanced handling, and daily comfort, with most models delivering a smooth and predictable ride across a variety of conditions. Sport trims like the WRX and BRZ sacrifice some ride plushness for sharper response, while larger or more rugged models provide more suspension travel for off-road capability. For buyers prioritizing comfort, focus on non-sport trims with touring tires and ensure proper maintenance to keep the ride as smooth as possible.
