Does Subaru have good sound system?
Yes — Subaru’s premium audio option, typically the Harman Kardon Premium Audio, is generally well-regarded and often offers noticeably better sound than the base system. The quality you’ll experience, however, depends on the model and trim year you’re considering.
To understand how Subaru’s sound systems perform, it helps to look at what’s standard versus what’s optional, how reviewers describe the sound in real-world driving, and which models offer the best combinations of space, acoustics, and amplification. This article breaks down what you should know about Subaru’s in-car audio offerings and what to expect in practice.
Where you’ll find the best sound
The following models commonly offer Subaru’s premium Harman Kardon audio in higher-level trims. Availability can vary by year, so check the window sticker for your specific vehicle.
- Outback — Harman Kardon Premium Audio is offered on higher trims.
- Forester — Harman Kardon Premium Audio is offered on higher trims.
- Ascent — Harman Kardon Premium Audio is offered on higher trims.
- Legacy — Harman Kardon Premium Audio is offered on higher trims.
Conclusion: If you want the enhanced sound, target a trim that includes Harman Kardon; otherwise, Subaru’s base audio remains modest but adequate for everyday listening.
How the system performs in practice
Below are the common impressions you’ll find from reviews and owner experiences when Subaru equips its vehicles with the Harman Kardon system. The goal is to give you a sense of what the upgrade typically delivers in real-world use.
- Sound quality: Clear mids and highs with better imaging and stage sense compared with the base setup.
- Volume and dynamics: Sufficient headroom for highway driving and everyday listening, with more dynamic range than standard systems.
- Bass and depth: Generally better bass response than base systems, though expectations should be calibrated for the class; some reviewers note it isn’t as punchy as premium-brand competitors.
- Usability: The Harman Kardon system is integrated with Subaru’s infotainment and driver-assistance features, and sound profiles can be adjusted via the car’s menus.
Conclusion: Across models that offer it, the Harman Kardon Premium Audio setup tends to be viewed as a solid, worthwhile upgrade that improves listening quality without turning Subaru into a high-end audio brand. For audiophiles seeking deeper bass or ultra-precise tuning, an aftermarket upgrade may still be appealing.
Model-year and trim variations
Audio options can shift with each redesign or mid-cycle update. If sound quality is a deciding factor, verify the exact audio configuration on the specific year and trim you’re considering, and test the system in person when possible.
- Outback (recent years): Premium Audio available on top trims; the setup is designed to complement Subaru’s cabin acoustics and infotainment.
- Forester (recent years): Premium Audio available on higher trims; reviews often note improved clarity and stage width versus base.
- Ascent (recent years): Premium Audio available on higher trims; space and headroom benefit the overall listening experience in the cabin.
- Legacy (recent years): Premium Audio available on higher trims; traditional sedan cabin acoustics can favor clearer reproduction.
Conclusion: When shopping Subaru, the best way to gauge value is to compare the Harman Kardon-equipped trim against the base system in the same model year and listen for yourself, since room acoustics and speaker placement can influence perceived quality.
Bottom line: is Subaru good for sound systems?
Subaru’s approach to sound systems tends to strike a favorable balance for most buyers. The Harman Kardon Premium Audio option provides noticeably better clarity and output than the standard setup and is generally considered competitive within the compact-to-midsize SUV space. It may not satisfy dedicated audiophiles seeking the most aggressively tuned bass or the absolute peak performance found in some premium brands, but for daily driving, family use, and highway cruising, it’s typically a solid upgrade worth considering.
Summary: If listening quality matters, opt for a trim that includes Harman Kardon Premium Audio and take a test listen. If you’re price-conscious, the base system is serviceable but falls short of the upgrade’s benefits. An aftermarket addition is always an option if you want to tailor the sound to your exact preferences.
In the end, Subaru offers a commendable balance: solid sound quality in its premium audio option, consistent performance across several popular models, and the flexibility to upgrade if your ears—or your budget—demand more from the soundtrack of your driving experience.
