Does Subaru have a smooth ride?
Yes. In general, Subaru’s mainstream lineup prioritizes a comfortable, composed ride on paved roads, with the Outback, Forester, and Legacy often singled out for their smooth highway manners. Some models and trims, however, trade a bit of softness for sharper handling or higher ground clearance, so ride quality can vary depending on which model and wheel/tire setup you choose.
Subaru’s approach to ride comfort reflects its brand emphasis on practicality, safety, and all-weather capability. The key factors influencing ride feel include suspension tuning, wheel and tire size, and the intended use of the vehicle. This article reviews how the brand’s popular models typically ride and what to consider if smoothness is a priority for you.
Ride quality across Subaru models
Here is a snapshot of how major Subaru models tend to feel on everyday roads, and where you might notice differences in comfort.
Comfort-focused models
- Outback — Known for a smooth, quiet highway ride and a forgiving suspension that cushions potholes and imperfections without feeling wallowy.
- Forester — Emphasizes a soft, compliant ride that handles rough pavement well while providing a high, comfortable seating position.
- Legacy — A sedan that offers refined, low-noise cruising with a composed chassis and gentle suspension tuning.
- Ascent — A large family SUV that typically delivers a calm, steady ride on highways and smooth detours alike.
These models represent Subaru’s comfort-forward bias, prioritizing comfort and isolation from road irregularities while maintaining practical space and visibility.
Sport-oriented or higher-ride models
- Crosstrek — While still comfortable, its taller ride height and some trims with sportier setup can introduce a bit more road feel and less isolation on rough pavement, especially with larger wheels.
In the Crosstrek and any sport-oriented trims, the emphasis can shift toward agility and capability, which can slightly reduce ride softness compared with the most comfort-focused models.
Factors that influence ride smoothness
Several practical factors can change how smooth a Subaru feels in everyday driving. Buyers should consider these when comparing models or trims intended for comfort.
- Suspension tuning and chassis balance — softer, more compliant setups generally yield smoother rides on uneven pavement.
- Wheel size and tire type — larger wheels and low-profile tires tend to transmit more harshness and road imperfections; softer, higher-profile tires usually improve comfort.
- Trail and trim choices — some trims come with tuned suspensions or wheel/tire packages that favor comfort over sportiness.
- Driving surface and weather conditions — highway surfaces are more forgiving; rough urban roads, frost heave, or potholes will test any vehicle’s ride quality.
Understanding these factors helps purchasers select a model and configuration that best aligns with their comfort preferences and typical driving conditions.
Choosing for a smoother ride: practical tips
If ride comfort is a top priority, use these guidelines when shopping or test-driving in the showroom or on a demo drive.
- Favor models and trims known for softer suspension tuning and, if available, wheel/tire packages that prioritize comfort over sportiness.
- Ask about tire options: softer, quieter tires can significantly improve cabin calm and road noise; ensure tires are appropriately inflated to the recommended pressures for comfort.
- Test drive on a variety of road surfaces — highway, city streets, and rougher pavement — to gauge real-world comfort and NVH (noise, vibration, and harshness).
- Consider vehicle size and weight: larger SUVs like the Ascent may feel different from compact crossovers like the Crosstrek, so personal preference matters.
By prioritizing trims, tires, and test-drive conditions that emphasize comfort, buyers can find a Subaru that aligns with a smoother, more relaxed driving experience.
Summary
Subaru generally delivers a smooth, comfortable ride across its mainstream lineup, with the Outback, Forester, Legacy, and Ascent often highlighted for their refined highway manners. The Crosstrek offers a pleasant ride as well, though its taller stance can introduce more road feel in some trims and on rough pavement. Sportier trims and larger wheels can reduce ride quietness in exchange for sharper handling. For most buyers, selecting the right model and tire setup, and taking a thorough test drive on typical roads, will yield a notably smooth experience that suits daily commuting and long road trips alike.
Summary: Subaru’s ride quality tends toward comfort and practicality, with variation mainly driven by model choice, trim level, and wheel-tire combinations. A careful test drive is the best way to confirm which Subaru will feel the smoothest to you on your regular routes.
Do subarus have a smooth ride?
Subaru models are renowned for their reliability, comfort, and rugged capabilities, making them ideal for long journeys across diverse terrains. Whether you crave spacious interiors, advanced safety, superior ground clearance, or smooth rides, Subaru has a model tailored to your road trip needs.
What is the number one issue with Subarus?
Now. So the head gasket. Issue we've heard it over and over again i've made many many videos here on YouTube about it. And lots of repair videos on fixing Subaru head gasket. Issues.
What is the most comfortable Subaru to ride?
The most comfortable Subaru is generally considered to be the Subaru Legacy for its smooth, car-like ride on paved roads, but the Subaru Outback is also a top contender, especially for its comfortable seats and blend of car-like comfort with SUV capability. The Ascent is a strong choice for maximum passenger comfort and space, and the Forester is also praised for its comfortable seating and capable ride.
Most comfortable by category
- For a smooth, quiet sedan ride: The Subaru Legacy is frequently cited as the most comfortable option for its longer wheelbase and lower center of gravity, which absorb bumps well and minimize road noise. Its quiet cabin is ideal for long highway stretches.
- For a comfortable ride with SUV versatility: The Subaru Outback offers a car-like ride with SUV utility. Higher trims are noted for having the most comfortable front seats, with features like available ventilated front seats and premium Nappa leather.
- For maximum passenger space and comfort: The Subaru Ascent is the largest Subaru and is designed for passenger comfort, with generous legroom, headroom, and comfortable seats, even on long trips.
- For a comfortable compact SUV: The Subaru Forester is a very comfortable option within the compact SUV class, with seating that is comfortable even on long rides. It is designed with durability in mind, while higher trims offer more premium comfort features like ventilated seats.
- For a comfortable, capable small SUV: The Subaru Crosstrek provides a comfortable and composed ride, adept at absorbing bumps and rougher terrain.
What are the downsides of Subaru?
Common cons for Subaru include issues with transmission (especially CVTs), excessive oil consumption, and problems with head gaskets on older models. Other drawbacks can include lower fuel efficiency compared to some competitors, a reputation for weak interior quality and materials, potential electrical issues, and some complaints about infotainment systems.
This video discusses several potential issues with Subaru vehicles, including transmission problems: 56sMrSubaru1387YouTube · Feb 2, 2025
Engine and transmission
- Oil Consumption: Many Subaru engines, particularly turbocharged ones, can have issues with excessive oil consumption.
- Head Gasket Failure: While mostly an issue with older models (pre-2012), head gasket failure remains a known potential problem that can lead to oil or coolant leaks.
- CVT Transmission Issues: Subaru's continuously variable transmissions (CVTs) have a history of problems, with some models experiencing costly failures, overheating, or other issues.
- Engine Stalling/Overheating: Some models have been associated with stalling or overheating problems.
Interior and technology
- Interior Quality: Some owners report that the interior materials feel cheap, with hard plastics and flimsy trim, and that road noise can be a significant issue.
- Infotainment System: The Subaru Starlink infotainment system has been criticized for being difficult to use.
Other issues
- Cracked Windshields: Some owners report a tendency for their Subaru windshields to crack prematurely.
- Fuel Efficiency: Subaru vehicles are not always the most fuel-efficient, especially when compared to some competitors.
- Electrical Problems: There are various reports of electrical problems, such as issues with the fuel pump or light switches.
