Is Subaru RWD or FWD?
Subaru’s current lineup centers on all-wheel drive, with the sole exception being the BRZ, which uses rear-wheel drive. There are no front-wheel-drive options in the mainstream Subaru range.
How Subaru emphasizes all-wheel drive
Subaru’s hallmark is Symmetrical AWD, a drivetrain layout designed to deliver balanced handling and traction by sending power to all four wheels in a fixed, symmetrical configuration. This setup aims to provide confident performance in rain, snow, and on uneven roads, qualities that have become a defining part of the brand’s identity in markets with challenging weather. While some competitors offer AWD as an option, Subaru typically makes AWD the standard or primary choice across most models.
Current lineup and notable exceptions
To illustrate how this philosophy translates into production models, here is a snapshot of where AWD appears in Subaru’s modern lineup.
- Forester — Symmetrical AWD is standard
- Outback — Symmetrical AWD is standard
- Crosstrek — Symmetrical AWD is standard
- Legacy — Symmetrical AWD is standard
- Ascent — Symmetrical AWD is standard
- WRX — Symmetrical AWD is standard
The BRZ stands apart from the rest of Subaru’s lineup as the notable exception, because it uses rear-wheel drive instead of AWD. For buyers seeking a traditional AWD family crossover, Subaru’s current core models deliver that capability; for those who want a pure, non-AWD sports coupe, the BRZ is the brand’s sole option in this segment.
A closer look at the BRZ
The BRZ is designed around a rear-wheel-drive chassis, pairing a flat-four engine with a focus on sporty handling and a low center of gravity. It shares its platform with Toyota’s GR86, and while it offers strong performance, it does not feature Subaru’s Symmetrical AWD system. Availability can vary by market and model year.
What this means for buyers
For buyers in regions with winter weather or variable road conditions, Subaru’s AWD-centric lineup offers enhanced traction and stability year-round. If you prioritize a traditional rear-drive sports car feel, the BRZ provides that driving experience, albeit without AWD. Prospective buyers should consider climate, driving needs, insurance, and cost of ownership when choosing between Subaru’s AWD models and the BRZ.
Summary
Subaru’s drivetrain strategy centers on Symmetrical AWD across most models, delivering traction and confidence in diverse conditions. The notable exception is the BRZ, which uses rear-wheel drive as part of a sport-focused package. In short, if you want AWD, Subaru has it across the lineup; if you want a pure RWD sports chassis, the BRZ is the dedicated option.
