Choosing the Best Subaru Vehicle Platform for Your Needs

Subaru has built a strong reputation for its versatile, reliable, and capable vehicles. Whether you’re looking for a sporty compact car, a family-friendly SUV, or an off-road-ready adventurer, Subaru offers a range of platforms to suit different lifestyles. In this guide, we’ll explore Subaru’s most popular models, categorized by their respective classes, along with their key specifications, pros, and cons to help you make the best choice. This information covers Subaru model years through 2023 and earlier where applicable.

Sport Compact: Subaru Impreza, WRX, and WRX STI

Subaru Impreza

• Model Years: 2017-2023

• Body Styles: Sedan and Hatchback

• Engine: 2.0L 4-cylinder Boxer engine

• Horsepower: 152 hp

• Drivetrain: Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD)

• Fuel Economy: Up to 28 MPG city / 36 MPG highway

Pros:

• Standard AWD (rare in this class)

• Practical hatchback option

• Comfortable ride and good interior space

• Excellent safety features (EyeSight Driver Assist available)

Cons:

• Modest engine power

• Not as sporty as competitors like the Honda Civic

Subaru WRX

• Model Years: All generations, 2015-2024

• Body Style: Sedan

• Engines:

  • 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder Boxer engine (268 hp) – Previous generation

  • 2.4L turbocharged 4-cylinder Boxer engine (271 hp) – Current generation (2022-2024)

• Drivetrain: Symmetrical AWD

• Fuel Economy: Up to 19 MPG city / 26 MPG highway

Pros:

• Thrilling performance and handling

• Standard AWD for superior grip

• Manual transmission available for enthusiasts

• Sporty and aggressive styling

Cons:

• Stiffer ride compared to the Impreza

• Limited rear seat and cargo space

• Lower fuel efficiency

Subaru WRX STI

• Model Years: 2004-2021 (discontinued after 2021)

• Engine: 2.5L turbocharged 4-cylinder Boxer engine (310 hp)

• Drivetrain: Symmetrical AWD

• Fuel Economy: Up to 16 MPG city / 22 MPG highway

Pros:

• Superior performance with track-ready capability

• Advanced AWD system with driver-controlled center differential

• Aggressive styling with a rally-inspired heritage

Cons:

• Harsh ride quality

• Higher cost compared to the WRX

• Poor fuel efficiency

Small SUV: Subaru Crosstrek and Forester

Subaru Crosstrek

• Model Years: 2018-2023

• Engine Options:

  • 2.0L 4-cylinder Boxer (152 hp)

  • 2.5L 4-cylinder Boxer (182 hp)

• Drivetrain: Symmetrical AWD

• Fuel Economy: Up to 28 MPG city / 34 MPG highway

Pros:

• Compact size for urban maneuverability

• High ground clearance (8.7 inches)

• Off-road capable with available X-MODE

• Hybrid option for better fuel economy

Cons:

• Base engine can feel underpowered

• Modest cargo capacity

Subaru Forester

• Model Years: 2014-2023

• Engine: 2.5L 4-cylinder Boxer engine (182 hp)

• Drivetrain: Symmetrical AWD

• Fuel Economy: Up to 26 MPG city / 33 MPG highway

Pros:

• Spacious interior with excellent visibility

• Standard AWD and good off-road capability

• Robust safety suite (EyeSight standard)

• Generous cargo space

Cons:

• Only one engine option

• Acceleration can feel sluggish

Large SUV: Subaru Outback and Ascent

Subaru Outback

• Model Years: 2015-2023

• Engine Options:

  • 2.5L 4-cylinder Boxer (182 hp)

  • 2.4L turbocharged 4-cylinder Boxer (260 hp)

• Drivetrain: Symmetrical AWD

• Fuel Economy: Up to 26 MPG city / 33 MPG highway

Pros:

• Comfortable, car-like ride

• High ground clearance for off-road adventures

• Large cargo area with roof rails

• Premium trims offer luxury features

Cons:

• Larger size may not suit urban drivers

• Base engine feels less powerful for its size

Subaru Ascent

• Model Years: 2019-2023

• Engine: 2.4L turbocharged 4-cylinder Boxer engine (260 hp)

• Drivetrain: Symmetrical AWD

• Fuel Economy: Up to 20 MPG city / 26 MPG highway

Pros:

• Three-row seating for up to 8 passengers

• Abundant cargo space

• Towing capacity up to 5,000 lbs

• Standard AWD and advanced safety features

Cons:

• Larger footprint may feel bulky to some drivers

• Average fuel economy for its class

Performance: Subaru BRZ

Subaru BRZ

• Model Years: 2013-2021 (First Generation), 2022+ (Second Generation)

• Body Style: Coupe

• Engines:

  • 2.0L 4-cylinder Boxer (205 hp, 2013-2021)

  • 2.4L 4-cylinder Boxer (228 hp, 2022+)

• Drivetrain: Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD)

• Fuel Economy:

  • Up to 24 MPG city / 33 MPG highway (First Generation)

  • Up to 20 MPG city / 27 MPG highway (Second Generation)

Pros:

• Fun, agile handling

• Lightweight and balanced design

• Modern interior with updated tech (Second Generation)

• Affordable sports car pricing

Cons:

• Limited practicality (small trunk and no AWD)

• Less powerful compared to turbocharged competitors

Conclusion

Choosing the right Subaru vehicle depends on your lifestyle and priorities. If you’re seeking a practical and efficient daily driver, the Impreza or Crosstrek may be the best fit. For families, the Forester or Ascent offer space and comfort. Enthusiasts will enjoy the WRX, WRX STI, or BRZ for their performance capabilities, while adventurers will appreciate the versatility of the Outback.

No matter which Subaru you choose, you’ll benefit from the brand’s hallmark features: symmetrical AWD, a Boxer engine, and a strong commitment to safety. Take your time to consider your needs, and schedule a test drive to find your perfect match!