Is a Subaru Impreza good in snow?
Yes. The Impreza tends to perform well in snowy conditions thanks to standard all-wheel drive and safety features, especially when paired with proper winter tires.
In this article, we examine why the Impreza handles winter weather, what limits it may face, and practical tips to maximize its performance on snowy streets and highways.
Why the Impreza handles snow well
Several design and tech factors combine to give the Impreza an edge in typical winter conditions.
- Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive across most trims, improving traction on slippery surfaces by distributing power to all wheels.
- Balanced drivetrain layout and chassis tuning that help maintain stability during acceleration, braking, and cornering on snow.
- Electronic stability and traction control systems that assist in keeping the vehicle under control when grip is uncertain.
- EyeSight driver-assist technology on many model years, offering features like adaptive cruise control and pre-collision braking to help manage winter-speed risks.
- Compatibility with proper winter tires, which dramatically boost stopping power and traction compared with all-season tires.
When these elements work in concert, the Impreza provides predictable handling and confidence for daily winter driving and jeeping through light to moderate snow.
Limitations and caveats
Despite its strengths, the Impreza has some constraints that affect its snow performance in tougher conditions.
- Relatively modest ground clearance (about 5.7 inches), which can limit the vehicle in deep or drifting snow compared with higher-riding crossovers.
- All-wheel drive improves traction but does not replace the need for appropriate tires; without winter tires, snow and ice grip can be insufficient.
- Transmission behavior—particularly with CVTs common in newer models—can influence throttle response and momentum on slick surfaces, though modern CVTs are designed to work well in winter.
- Performance is highly dependent on road conditions; even with AWD, abrupt maneuvers on ice or steep, unplowed grades can lead to loss of control if speeds are too high.
For drivers facing frequent heavy snow or unplowed roads, these factors suggest considering winter tires and realistic expectations about clearance and terrain.
Practical tips to maximize snow performance with an Impreza
Owners can translate the Impreza’s inherent capabilities into real-world winter reliability by focusing on tires, maintenance, and cautious driving techniques.
- Install high-quality winter tires on all four wheels to maximize grip in snow and on ice.
- Regularly check tire pressures, as cold weather lowers pressure and can reduce grip and tire contact patch.
- Drive with smooth inputs: gradual throttle, gentle braking, and soft steering to avoid spinning wheels or losing grip.
- Maintain a generous following distance and reduce speed in snowy or icy conditions to account for longer stopping distances.
- Use EyeSight and other driver-assist features as aids, but don’t rely on them to compensate for risky winter driving conditions.
- Clean snow and ice from all windows and lights, and remove snow from the roof to prevent visibility issues for you and other drivers.
With the right tires and disciplined driving, the Impreza can be a dependable winter companion for many commuters and travelers.
Model-year notes and feature snapshot
Across recent model years, Subaru has continued to offer standard all-wheel drive on the Impreza along with driver-assist technologies like EyeSight on many trims. Ground clearance remains a consideration for deep snow, and tire choice continues to dominate winter performance. If you’re shopping, verify the exact equipment for the year and trim you’re considering, since AWD availability, tires, and driver-assist features can vary by model year.
Summary
The Subaru Impreza generally performs well in snow due to its standard AWD, stable chassis, and modern safety tech, especially when equipped with proper winter tires. Its lower ground clearance is a notable limitation in deep drifts, so for areas with heavy winter snowfall you might weigh higher-clearance options or ensure you pair the Impreza with high-quality winter tires and cautious driving. Overall, it remains a solid, budget-friendly choice for winter reliability.
What are the disadvantages of a Subaru Impreza?
Common problems with the Subaru Impreza include engine issues, sudden and abrupt acceleration, transmission failure, and air bag problems. The 2008 and 2012 models of the Subaru Impreza should be avoided, but the rest have generally good reliability.
Which Subaru is best in snow?
The best Subaru for snow depends on your needs, but the Outback and Forester are excellent choices due to their high ground clearance and standard X-MODE®. For a compact option, the Crosstrek is agile and capable in snow, while the larger Ascent provides more space for families. All Subaru models except the BRZ come with standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, making them all capable in winter conditions.
This video explains the Subaru AWD system and how it works in the snow: 53sChase SchraderYouTube · Dec 16, 2024
Top recommendations for snow
- Outback: Offers 8.7 inches of ground clearance and X-MODE® to easily handle deep snow. Its spacious interior makes it a comfortable option for winter journeys.
- Forester: Similar to the Outback, the Forester also has standard all-wheel drive and X-MODE®. Its higher ride height gives it an advantage on snowy roads and parking lots. The Wilderness trim offers even more capability with dual-function X-MODE® for snow/dirt and deep snow/mud.
- Crosstrek: A good choice for navigating narrow, snow-covered city streets. It combines a compact size with standard AWD and ground clearance for excellent maneuverability in winter weather.
- Ascent: If you need more space for family and gear, the Ascent is a great option. It features 8.7 inches of ground clearance, X-MODE®, and standard EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, making it a well-equipped choice for tough winter conditions.
All-wheel drive is key
- Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system is a key feature that comes standard on most new Subaru models, providing equal power to all wheels for balanced traction in all conditions.
- This standard system is the foundation of Subaru's reliable winter performance, but adding features like X-MODE® can further enhance control.
Are subarus safe in the snow?
Subaru vehicles are purpose-built for winter, with advanced features that prioritize safety, control, and comfort. Whether it's heated side mirrors or an AWD system designed to grip the iciest roads, Subaru has you covered.
Is a Subaru Impreza good for snow?
Yes it is good in snow.
