Is Subaru all-wheel drive different?
Yes. Subaru's all-wheel-drive system is distinct in that it uses a symmetrical, full-time AWD with a center differential and equal-length drivetrains, typically standard across most models, delivering traction and a low center of gravity. It is not a traditional 4x4 with a low-range gear.
Beyond that, Subaru integrates the AWD system with its boxer engines, transmissions, and driver-assist technology to optimize handling in snow, rain, and light off-road conditions. This article explains how Subaru's approach differs from other brands, what features exist to enhance traction, and which models use AWD.
What makes Subaru AWD unique
Subaru’s approach centers on a symmetrical layout and constant all-wheel power distribution, aiming for balanced grip under a wide range of conditions.
Key attributes include:
- Symmetrical AWD design with equal-length driveshafts and a center differential that splits torque front-to-rear, helping maintain stability.
- Boxer engine pairing that contributes to a low center of gravity and improved handling.
- Standard or readily available driver-assist tech like EyeSight that works with AWD to aid braking and lane-keeping.
- Terrain modes and X-Mode on many models to optimize traction in snow, dirt, or mud, sometimes with hill descent control.
- Active Torque Vectoring and enhanced stability control that can adjust power and braking to individual wheels to reduce understeer in corners.
In practice, this means Subaru vehicles tend to feel more predictable in slick conditions and offer confident traction without needing a human to engage a transfer case. The system is designed for daily driving as well as light off-road use.
How Subaru AWD compares to traditional 4x4 systems
Unlike a traditional part-time 4x4 with a low-range gearing and a transfer case that drivers manually engage, Subaru's AWD is typically full-time and engages automatically based on wheel slip and throttle input. This yields continuous traction but does not provide the same off-road low-range gearing that serious rock-crawling or deep mud requires.
Another distinction is that many other brands offer AWD as an option on some models, and on others it's a performance feature; Subaru generally makes AWD standard on nearly all its gasoline-powered models, creating a uniform driving experience across the lineup. The primary caveat is the BRZ, which remains rear-wheel drive.
Which Subaru models use AWD and which do not
In the United States, AWD is standard on most Subaru models, including the Impreza, Crosstrek, Forester, Outback, Legacy, WRX, and Ascent. The notable exception is the Subaru BRZ, which is rear-wheel drive. In some markets or on certain trims, there may be slight variations in the drivetrain, but the core approach remains AWD for most lineup.
- Impreza (sedan/hatch)
- Crosstrek (subcompact SUV)
- Forester (compact SUV)
- Outback (wagon/crossover)
- Legacy (mid-size sedan)
- WRX (performance sedan/hatch)
- Ascent (three-row SUV)
- BRZ (two-door sports coupe) — rear-wheel drive
Understanding these distinctions can help buyers gauge how the system behaves in snow, rain, or on rough roads compared with other brands that offer AWD as an option or that use a part-time 4x4 system.
Summary
Subaru's all-wheel-drive is not just a badge. It is a distinctive, full-time, symmetrical AWD architecture that emphasizes balanced handling and continuous traction across most of its lineup. While it shares the goal of enhanced grip with other brands' AWD systems, Subaru's design choices—such as the boxer engine pairing, standard AWD, and features like X-Mode and ATV—set it apart. For buyers, this translates into a familiar, confident feel in winter weather and on light off-road terrain, with the BRZ standing out as an exception to the AWD norm.
What are the downsides of Subaru AWD?
The rear differential is a critical part of the AWD system, so fluid leaks can result in increased friction, reduced lubrication, and loss of traction. Likewise, issues can arise with the center differential, creating a similar problem.
How is Subaru all-wheel-drive different?
Subaru's AWD is different due to its Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, which is always engaged and sends power to all four wheels simultaneously. This is different from many competitor systems that only engage on-demand or are adapted from front-wheel drive platforms. Subaru's design, combined with a horizontally-opposed Boxer engine, results in a low center of gravity, balanced weight distribution, and stable handling.
Key differences in Subaru's AWD
This video explains how Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system works: 49sSubaruYouTube · Jan 27, 2023
- Always-on, full-time power: Unlike systems that only activate when slip is detected, Subaru's system provides continuous power to all four wheels, improving traction and stability in real-time.
- Symmetrical drivetrain: The components are laid out along the vehicle's centerline, creating a balanced drivetrain that provides a lower center of gravity and more even weight distribution.
- Integrated design: The AWD system is a core part of the vehicle's design from the ground up, not an add-on to a front-wheel-drive platform, according to Ramsey Subaru.
- Balanced power distribution: Power is consistently distributed to all four wheels, and can be shifted between the front and rear axles to the wheels with the most grip, enhancing control on varying surfaces.
- Complementary components: It works in conjunction with other systems, such as the Boxer engine's design, Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC), and Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), to maximize safety and handling, notes Sport Subaru.
Are there any non-AWD Subaru?
You might have heard that every Subaru is an AWD model, but are all Subarus really AWD? With the exception of the Subaru BRZ, a track-ready sports car with RWD, all Subaru models come with Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive.
Is the Subaru AWD permanent?
Unlike the part-time AWD systems found in most SUVs, Subaru's permanent mechanical setup continuously distributes power to all four wheels through a sophisticated network of differentials, driveshafts, and electronic controls.
