Is Subaru 4 wheel drive all the time?
Subaru generally uses Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) as standard across its lineup, meaning AWD is active all the time. The only notable exception in recent years is the BRZ, which is rear-wheel drive.
Subaru’s AWD is designed to improve traction in rain, snow, and slippery surfaces by continuously distributing power between the front and rear wheels, rather than relying on a separate 4x4 transfer case you can switch into. It’s a full-time system intended for everyday stability, paired with electronic aids like EyeSight to manage throttle, braking, and steering under challenging conditions.
How Subaru's Symmetrical AWD Works
Below is a concise look at how the system functions and why it’s a selling point for many buyers.
- Full-time symmetry: Power is distributed between the front and rear axles via a center differential, so all four wheels are ready to provide traction as soon as you start moving.
- Traction-aware torque split: The system adjusts torque delivery in response to grip, favoring the axle with more traction to maintain stability.
- Integrated controls: Traction control, stability programs, and EyeSight driver-assist systems work in concert with AWD to help prevent wheel slip.
- No traditional low-range: Unlike part-time 4WD systems, Subaru’s AWD typically lacks a low-range transfer case; performance in tough terrain is aided by electronics and wheels, not a gear reduction.
In practice, these features translate to improved grip on wet, icy, or uneven pavement, with the system stepping in automatically as needed. It is not a substitute for careful driving in off-road conditions, but it does provide confidence in everyday weather.
Which Subaru Models Have AWD as Standard
Here’s a snapshot of current Subaru models where AWD comes standard, illustrating how common the setup is across the brand.
- Impreza (sedan and hatchback)
- Crosstrek (subcompact SUV)
- Forester (compact SUV)
- Outback (wagon crossover)
- Legacy (midsize sedan)
- WRX (performance sedan)
- Ascent (three-row SUV)
- BRZ — exception: rear-wheel drive
Note: In some markets or trims, there may be options that vary, but in the United States and most regions Subaru typically ships with AWD as standard except for the BRZ, which is rear-wheel drive.
Key Takeaways
Subaru’s Symmetrical AWD is designed for consistent traction across a wide range of conditions, emphasizing stability and everyday usability rather than a traditional off-road 4WD setup with low-range gears. If you buy a current Subaru, odds are you’ll have AWD standard, with BRZ standing out as the exception.
Summary
Across Subaru’s modern lineup, all-wheel drive is the default, full-time system that enhances grip in adverse weather and on slick surfaces. It is not a traditional 4WD with selectable low-range gear, and the BRZ is the sole notable exception, using rear-wheel drive. For buyers seeking consistent traction and confident handling in rain, snow, or light off-road scenarios, Subaru’s AWD approach remains a core selling point.
Are Subarus always in 4 wheel drive?
Yes, with one exception, all Subaru vehicles are always in 4-wheel drive (or more accurately, all-wheel drive) because Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system is a permanent, full-time system that is always engaged. The only exception is the Subaru BRZ sports car, which comes with rear-wheel drive. This means that power is continuously sent to all four wheels, unlike many other systems that only engage the rear wheels when slip is detected.
- Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive: This is a permanent system, not a part-time one, that continuously distributes power to all four wheels to improve traction and control in various conditions.
- Power distribution: The system automatically and instantly adjusts power to the wheels that have more traction, so it works constantly even on dry roads to help with stability and handling.
- Exceptional model: The only Subaru that is not equipped with all-wheel drive is the BRZ sports car, which is rear-wheel drive.
Is the Subaru Continuous AWD?
The Subaru AWD system doesn't wait for specific wheels to lose traction to send power to them. Instead, it continuously sends power to all four wheels at once, creating more consistency in power distribution.
Is the Subaru Forester permanent 4WD?
So you can rely on all-new Forester's advanced safety features to give you unparalleled peace of mind at all times. Our renowned permanent Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system ensures Subarus are sure-footed in all conditions.
Is the Subaru AWD always on?
Yes, Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) is always on and works full-time to send power to all four wheels simultaneously. This is different from many other systems that only engage the rear wheels when slippage is detected. In Subaru, the power distribution can shift in real-time to the wheels that have more traction, providing better stability and control in various conditions like dry, wet, or snowy roads.
- Full-time engagement: The system is always active, which means there is no delay in sending power to all wheels when you need it most.
- Automatic power distribution: While always on, the system continuously and automatically distributes power between the front and rear wheels to optimize grip for current conditions.
- Instant response: Unlike "on-demand" systems, Subaru's AWD is reactive and doesn't require you to select a mode for it to work.
- Standard on most models: Symmetrical AWD is a standard feature on nearly all Subaru vehicles, with the exception of the rear-wheel-drive BRZ.
