What year did Subaru make the AWD standard?
1990.
Subaru’s transition to standard all-wheel drive began with the introduction of AWD on the Legacy in the United States for the 1990 model year. In the years that followed, AWD became increasingly common across Subaru’s lineup in multiple markets, and by the late 1990s the brand had positioned all-wheel drive as a defining, core feature of most of its vehicles.
Context and significance
From its early days, Subaru built its reputation on drivetrain choices that emphasized traction and safety. The move to make AWD standard was not only about performance in snow and rain; it was a strategic branding decision that aligned with Subaru’s image as a practical, capable family-brand SUV-maker. The company later branded its AWD system as Symmetrical AWD, a term it used to highlight the balanced layout of its engine and drivetrain for stability and efficiency.
Milestones in AWD adoption
Below are some of the key milestones that illustrate how AWD became standard or nearly universal across Subaru’s mainstream lineup.
- 1990: AWD becomes standard on the Subaru Legacy in the United States, marking a watershed moment for the brand in its largest market.
- Mid-1990s: AWD expands to additional Subaru models in various markets, reinforcing the perception of AWD as a baseline feature rather than an options package.
- Late 1990s: Subaru brands its all-wheel-drive system as Symmetrical AWD, emphasizing balance, stability, and traction across its lineup.
- 2000s onward: AWD remains the default or widely available drivetrain on most Subaru passenger cars and SUVs, with only a few niche models outside the mainstream lineup diverging from this pattern.
These milestones illustrate how AWD evolved from a notable feature to a defining attribute of Subaru’s product strategy across global markets.
Regional variations
Regional differences exist in the pace and extent of AWD adoption. While the United States and many European markets saw a rapid move toward AWD becoming standard on more models by the late 1990s, other regions experienced more gradual uptake depending on model lineups and regulatory environments. In all cases, AWD remained central to Subaru’s value proposition.
Current state: AWD today
Today, AWD is standard on most Subaru models sold in the United States and many other major markets. The brand’s lineup predominantly features all-wheel drive as either standard or widely available across its crossovers, sedans, and SUVs. Notable exceptions include the BRZ sports coupe, which is rear-wheel drive, reinforcing Subaru’s emphasis on AWD in its broader portfolio. For buyers seeking traction and stability, Subaru’s current strategy continues to favor AWD as a fundamental characteristic rather than an optional add-on.
Summary
Subaru’s shift to standard all-wheel drive began in 1990 with the Legacy and gradually extended across most of its lineup through the 1990s and beyond. The move helped define Subaru’s brand identity around traction, safety, and capability, a positioning that remains evident in the company’s current model lineup and marketing.
What year to stay away from a Subaru Outback?
Years to avoid for the Subaru Outback include 2010–2014, which had widespread CVT, oil consumption, and oil leak issues, and 2018, which had recalls and reliability concerns. Additionally, some sources recommend avoiding the 2005–2007 models due to head gasket problems and the 2020 model, which had electrical and windshield issues.
Years to avoid
- 2010–2014: These models are frequently cited for significant transmission issues (CVT), oil consumption, and general reliability problems. The 2010 model specifically had issues with the torque converter locking up.
- 2018: This year saw recalls and owner complaints related to oil consumption, exhaust components, and electrical issues.
- 2005–2007: These models are known for head gasket failures, which can cause coolant and oil leaks.
- 2020: This model year is associated with a high number of electrical problems, including dead batteries and stalling, as well as issues with the windshield cracking from small chips.
Other potential problem years
- 2013: Frequently mentioned for oil consumption issues.
- 2015: Some reports list it with electrical and engine problems.
- 2017: Reliability issues were noted.
Does Subaru come standard with AWD?
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. Take a moment to learn more about the drivetrain on each of our Subaru all-wheel drive models.
What year did Subaru make all-wheel drive standard?
1996
Subaru All-Wheel Drive Dates Back to the 1970s
In the late 1980s, Subaru upgraded from a part-time to a full-time AWD setup, and that system eventually evolved into the brand's Symmetrical AWD. In 1996, Symmetrical AWD was made standard across Subaru's U.S. vehicle lineup.
What is the least stolen Subaru?
Another Kudo for the 2025 Subaru Crosstrek: It's on the “Least Stolen” List. Great news, Subie lovers! Not a single Subaru model is included on the most recent Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and Highway Loss Data Institute (IIHS-HLDI)'s “Most-Stolen Vehicles” list.
