Is the Subaru AWD always on?
Yes. Subaru’s all-wheel-drive system is designed to be permanent and active at all times, rather than a switchable two-wheel-drive mode. In normal driving, power is automatically directed to the wheels with the most grip.
This article explains how Subaru’s AWD works, what drivers should expect in everyday use, and how it varies by model and feature set. It also notes common myths and practical implications for snowy or wet conditions.
How Subaru’s AWD Works
Subaru’s Symmetrical AWD uses a center differential and a balanced drivetrain layout to deliver power to both axles. In typical conditions, torque is shared between the front and rear axles and can be redistributed in fractions of a second if wheel slip is detected.
Here are the key features of Subaru's AWD system:
- Permanent, non-switchable all-wheel drive: The system is designed to stay engaged at all times, unlike part-time 4WD setups that require a driver to engage or disengage.
- Dynamic torque distribution: The center differential and related electronics adjust how much power goes to the front vs. rear wheels based on grip and road conditions.
- Traction-focused behavior: When one axle loses traction, the system sends more torque to the axle with grip to maintain stability and acceleration.
- Support from drive aids: Features like X-Mode, hill descent control, and stability/traction control work in concert with AWD to maximize traction in snow, mud, or off-road surfaces.
In short, Subaru’s AWD is designed to be transparent to the driver—always present and automatically adapting to grip without requiring you to engage a mode or swap to a different drivetrain setting.
Variants and Exceptions
While AWD is standard on most Subaru models, there are important caveats and historical notes that affect how the system behaves in specific cars or trims.
Driver-controlled center differentials (DCCD) in high-performance models
Some older or high-performance Subaru variants offered a driver-controlled center differential feature that let the driver adjust the front/rear torque split. In most current mainstream Subarus, there isn’t a user-accessible 2WD lock, but the AWD system remains active and adaptive.
X-Mode and traction aids
X-Mode, along with other traction aids, optimizes throttle response, transmission behavior, and braking to maximize grip on slippery surfaces. These features enhance AWD performance but do not turn AWD on or off—they modulate how the system operates in challenging conditions.
What this means for drivers
For everyday driving, AWD provides enhanced stability and traction in rain, snow, and uneven surfaces. However, it is not a guarantee against all hazards, and it can impact fuel economy and maintenance needs compared with a front-wheel-drive setup.
- There is no standard 2WD mode to toggle off AWD on most Subaru models; the system is designed to be always on and automatically responsive.
- Fuel economy may be modestly lower than a comparable front-wheel-drive version of the same model due to the added drivetrain components and weight.
- Regular maintenance is important; oil changes and servicing for the AWD transfer components follow the vehicle’s scheduled maintenance, not just the transmission.
- In extreme off-road or icy conditions, driver inputs (speed, braking, and steering) remain crucial; AWD aids grip but does not substitute prudent driving.
Before you rely on AWD in poor conditions, keep these notes in mind:
Ultimately, Subaru’s all-wheel-drive system is a core part of the brand’s appeal, designed to deliver continuous traction with minimal driver intervention, while offering optional performance aids and dynamic torque handling to suit different terrains and weather.
Summary
Subaru AWD, known as Symmetrical AWD, is typically a permanent, always-on system that automatically distributes power between the front and rear axles to optimize traction. There is generally no driver-controlled 2WD mode in modern Subarus, though some high-performance legacy models offered adjustable center differentials. Features like X-Mode enhance traction in slippery conditions, while everyday driving benefits from improved stability—especially in snow, rain, or rough terrain. For most drivers, AWD means greater confidence behind the wheel, with a modest impact on fuel economy and maintenance requirements.
