Is A Subaru AWD or 4 wheel drive?
Subaru vehicles primarily use all-wheel drive (AWD) rather than traditional four-wheel drive (4WD). For most customers, AWD is standard across nearly the entire lineup, while a single model uses rear-wheel drive (RWD).
Unlike some brands that offer a part-time or low-range 4WD system for off-road use, Subaru’s core drivetrain is built around Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. This is a permanent, full-time system designed to put power to all four wheels as needed for traction on rain-soaked highways, snowbound streets, and light off-road surfaces. The notable exception is the Subaru BRZ, which is rear-wheel drive and not AWD, giving it a different driving character compared with the brand’s AWD models.
Understanding Subaru’s Symmetrical AWD
Subaru’s Symmetrical AWD is at the heart of how the brand delivers traction. Here are the key features that define it across most models.
- Permanent all-wheel drive with a center differential to balance power between the front and rear axles.
- Torque distribution that varies in response to grip conditions, helping to maintain stability on slippery surfaces.
- Compatibility with driver-assistance and traction technologies, such as X-Mode on many models, which optimizes throttle, brakes, and AWD response in snow, mud, or gravel.
- Commonly paired with Subaru’s direct-injection engines and CVT or manual/transmission options, creating a cohesive drivetrain designed for all-weather confidence.
In practice, this AWD setup is designed to provide consistent traction without the need for the driver to select a mode or engage a separate transfer case. It’s particularly valued in regions with unpredictable weather and for drivers who prioritize confident handling year-round.
AWD vs 4WD: Quick contrasts
To distinguish the two concepts clearly, consider these core differences and how they apply to Subaru’s lineup.
- AWD is typically always engaged and distributes torque automatically to all wheels. 4WD is often part-time or has a low-range setting for serious off-road use.
- AWD systems focus on on-road stability and traction across varying conditions; 4WD systems are designed for demanding off-road terrain and can require driver input to engage low-range gearing.
- Subaru’s Symmetrical AWD aims for balanced handling and predictable behavior in snow, rain, and light off-road situations, with limited or no driver intervention.
- Low-range or locked-differential features common to traditional 4WD are not standard in Subaru’s lineup; BRZ remains an exception as a rear-wheel-drive model.
For shoppers, the practical takeaway is that Subaru’s drivetrain philosophy centers on AWD as the default, with a driving experience tailored toward steady traction and confident handling rather than a rugged, off-road-only 4WD system.
Which Subaru models use AWD (and which don’t)
Most Subaru models employ AWD as either standard or widely available. The primary exception within the brand’s current lineup is the BRZ, which is rear-wheel drive. Here’s a quick snapshot of the drivetrain approach by model family.
- AWD models: Impreza, Crosstrek, Forester, Outback, Legacy, Ascent, and WRX rely on Subaru’s Symmetrical AWD—often with model-specific AWD refinements.
- RWD model: BRZ operates with rear-wheel drive, not AWD, reflecting its sport-oriented design.
Across the board, Subaru emphasizes AWD as a core feature for stability and year-round capability, with the BRZ standing out as an exception in the current lineup.
How to tell if your Subaru is AWD
If you’re trying to confirm your vehicle’s drivetrain, use these practical checks. They apply whether you’re shopping or verifying a used car.
- Check the model’s official specifications (brochure or manufacturer website) for “AWD” or “Symmetrical AWD.”
- Look for AWD badging on the vehicle’s rear hatch or doors, though some models use branding in the grille or elsewhere.
- Review the window sticker or the VIN-based build sheet from the dealer or a trusted online resource.
- Note the BRZ: if your model is BRZ, it is rear-wheel drive, not AWD.
If you’re still unsure, ask a dealer or consult the owner’s manual, which will specify the drivetrain configuration for your exact vehicle.
Summary
In practical terms, Subaru’s core drivetrain is AWD, not 4WD, and this approach underpins the brand’s reputation for stability and traction in diverse conditions. The BRZ is the notable exception, offering RWD for a sportier driving feel. For most Subaru buyers, AWD is the default expectation, with features like X-Mode enhancing performance in slippery or uneven terrain. Understanding these differences helps shoppers choose the model that best fits their climate and driving style.
Bottom line: If you’re choosing a Subaru for year-round confidence and balanced traction, expect AWD to be a defining feature of the lineup, while the BRZ stands apart as a rear-wheel-drive exception.
