Best Used Subaru: Top 10
"SUBARU" in Japanese means the Pleiades star cluster in the constellation of Taurus. It is also known as the "group of six stars". The name reflects the fact that Fuji Heavy Industries was formed from the capital of five companies that spun out of Nakajima Aircraft.
Subaru began as an aircraft research company called Fuji Heavy Industries in 1915. However, it soon reorganized and became the main aircraft manufacturer for Japan during World War II. After the war, the company switched to automobile production, which led to the creation of the Subaru brand.
Most Subaru vehicles are sold in North America. You'd be surprised, but Subaru products rank higher than Mercedes-Benz, BMW and other manufacturers in performance, comfort, reliability and utility.
While other manufacturers have only one vehicle model honored with the Highway Safety Top Safety Pick award, every model in Subaru's arsenal has this distinction. In addition, Subaru vehicles lead the industry in residual value retention among the most popular car brands.
Top 10: Best Subaru models
Our rankings include:
- Subaru Outback (BS) 2015-2019
- Subaru Outback (BT) 2020+
- Subaru Forester (SK) 2018+
- Subaru Impreza (GT/GK) 2017+
- Subaru WRX (VA) 2014-2021
- Subaru Legacy (BN/BS) 2014-2020
- Subaru Crosstrek (GT) 2018+
- Subaru Ascent (WX) 2018+
- Subaru XV 2nd generation (2017-2020)
- Subaru BRZ (ZC6) 2012-2020
Let's take a closer look at each model to decide which Subaru is best to buy.
Subaru Outback (BS) 2015-2019
The Subaru Outback isn't an SUV, but it offers most of the features found in this class of vehicle. It's more reliable in challenging driving conditions than the average all-wheel-drive station wagon with more ground clearance. And its all-wheel-drive system keeps you moving even when most other all-wheel-drive station wagons, crossovers, and compact SUVs would give up.
In 2015, Subaru introduced the fifth generation of the Outback model of the "BS" series, which became smarter, safer, more elegant and more economical. The manufacturer offers a 5-door station wagon with 2.0 diesel or 2.5i gasoline engines, in SE, SE Premium, Limited configurations.
The Subaru Outback, whose story begins in 1995, was the first off-road-oriented family station wagon. It was on a par with Volvo and Land Rover, and its main consumers were those who needed a country vehicle.
The modern understanding of "crossovers" doesn't fit the Outback's mission, but that's exactly how Japanese manufacturers envision it. The Outback is based on the Subaru Legacy Tourer station wagon, although it has a more rugged design and more ground clearance. The first models were not produced with a diesel/automatic combination, which most buyers wanted, and the interior quality did not match the level of premium competitors. But all this was corrected in the future.
For 2019, Subaru has made the EyeSight Driver Assist Technology package standard, which was previously available as an option and includes adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assistant, lane departure warning, and automatic high beam control standard on all 2019 Outback models. Other changes include new overhead lighting above the center console, a standard 5.0-inch LCD display on the instrument panel, and two front USB ports. Premium and Limited models now feature a self-dimming rearview mirror with compass.
Subaru Outback (BT) 2020+
In terms of size, the 2020 Subaru Outback falls into the midsize SUV category. However, when viewed from the side, it looks more like a station wagon. Whatever you call it, the Outback remains one of the most versatile and comfortable vehicles in its class. For 2020, the model is completely redesigned.
The new Outback is equipped with one of two engines: a 2.5-liter four-cylinder opposition engine and a turbocharged 2.4-liter engine. The turbocharged engine is particularly popular due to its increased power and fuel economy compared to the older atmospheric engine. Both engines come standard with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT).
In addition to standard safety systems such as adaptive cruise control and frontal collision warning with automatic braking, the Outback now features an advanced DriverFocus system that uses an infrared sensor to detect a fatigued driver. This system can also detect the owner by scanning your face upon landing and automatically adjust the seats and mirrors to your personal preferences.
Major drawbacks include interior noise at high speeds and a new 11.6-inch tablet-style touchscreen that looks good but isn't always easy to use. Nevertheless, the new Outback is impressive. The seats are very comfortable, cargo space is as good as the competition, and functionality is top-notch.
Subaru Forester (SK) 2018+
For many, this is exactly the best Subaru in the SUV category. The main advantage of the Subaru Forester is its off-road abilities, which are realized thanks to the standard all-wheel drive system that provides traction on slippery surfaces. The downside is that on the road, the Subaru feels somewhat dated due to body roll and a rather soft suspension.
There's plenty of room for passengers in the cabin, and the trunk is as roomy as the competition. However, in some parts of the interior, the Forester lags behind, mainly in terms of design and material selection. The engine lineup includes only one option - a 2.0-liter 150 hp gasoline engine that allows you to reach speeds of up to 191 kilometers per hour and accelerate from 0 to 100 kilometers per hour in 11.8 seconds.
Equipment on base models is comparable to the competition, including a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, climate control, a rearview camera, power driver's seat adjustment and cruise control.
If you're looking for a stylish interior, memorable looks, and impeccable handling, the Forester may not be for you.
Subaru Impreza (GT/GK) 2017+
It's the only C-segment family hatchback produced between 2017 and 2022 that sends power to all four wheels while offering plenty of all-weather benefits.
The look of the fifth-generation Impreza is a little more elegant and less utilitarian, but still quite recognizable to those who know Subaru. For the rest of us, it's an unremarkable five-door hatchback that's 10 mm lower and 35 mm wider in the "GK/GT" series.
At the front are the signature hawk-eye headlamps, which in the MK5 model have become fully LED, and neat outer strips of daytime running lights. The familiar central hexagonal grille looks stylish, as do the chrome lower cutouts at the corners, which house the standard fog lamps. Sharp creases have also appeared on the hood.
The interior is not all up to premium-brand standards - some of the controls look a little cheap - but overall there are improvements over the previous generation. Good impressions are left by an abundance of soft-touch plastics and pleasant décor, such as the silver trim in the middle section, transitioning to carbon-style panels around the door handles.
Important changes have been made to the instrument panel. The center screen of the infotainment system, which is now located higher up, has increased in size to 8 inches and has a much more elegant interface.
Subaru WRX (VA) 2014-2021
The 2014 Subaru Impreza WRX belongs to the family of high-performance sedans and hatchbacks. Based on the previous generation Impreza and inspired by Subaru's years of participation in international rally competitions, this car is aimed at serious car enthusiasts who enjoy twisty roads and tracks.
When you decide to purchase a Subaru Impreza WRX, you are buying a classic street rally car. The base version of the WRX is powered by a turbocharged 2.5-liter opposition four-cylinder engine that produces 265 horsepower. The STI model uses a high-output version of this engine, producing 305 horsepower. The vehicle utilizes a standard all-wheel drive system.
The interior of the car lacks refinement: hard plastic, not the best assembly and finishing. The standard audio system also leaves much to be desired, and the optional navigation system is outdated and more difficult to use compared to competitors' systems.
Subaru Legacy (BN/BS) 2014-2020
With standard all-wheel drive, Subaru is a popular choice for consumers in regions with challenging weather conditions. However, not everyone wants to drive a utilitarian station wagon or crossover. That's why Subaru offers the Legacy, which provides that extra degree of off-road capability in the body of a traditional midsize sedan.
In past years, the Subaru Legacy had a clear inclination toward sportiness, but then the manufacturer came to the conclusion that most of its customers are not looking for thrills on winding roads in a midsize sedan. Therefore, the Legacy became an affordable family car. Its cabin is comfortable, with ample head and legroom no matter where you sit, and interior noise levels are very low when driving on the highway. Additional pluses are the excellent visibility and the presence of some top-notch safety features.
But in some respects, the Legacy is inferior to the competition. Power and fuel economy leave a lot to be desired with both the 2.5-liter four-cylinder and 3.6-liter six-cylinder engines. The audio and navigation systems aren't as user-friendly, and ride comfort is below average. An affordable price and all-wheel drive are the foundation of the Subaru Legacy's appeal.
Subaru Crosstrek (GT) 2018+
Top Subaru continues the Crosstrek model combines style and standard all-wheel drive in a tall body that appeals to adventurous drivers with its looks alone. The Crosstrek comes equipped with one of Subaru's traditional underpowered four-cylinder engines and a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) that reduces driving pleasure. These shortcomings are offset by excellent handling, good build quality, and an impressive array of available technologies.
The Crosstrek has been completely redesigned for 2018 and is based on a new platform. All-wheel drive remains standard, the revised 2.0-liter opposition four-cylinder engine has received improvements for increased power and efficiency, and the standard manual transmission now has six speeds.
The Crosstrek's 2.0-liter, 152-horsepower, four-cylinder engine doesn't provide the desired dynamics and is quite noisy. Responsive gas pedal helps Subaru to start quickly from a place, but at considerable pressing of gas pedal the engine does not give appreciable increase of power. Otherwise, Crosstrek confidently behaves on the road, allows to get real pleasure from management and fully control its behavior. The car is stable in turns, not yielding in this to the main competitors. The suspension is well tuned and can easily cope with large potholes.
Subaru Ascent (WX) 2018+
In the top Touring trim, the car comes with a panoramic sunroof, heated and ventilated front seats, wood trim and a Wi-Fi hotspot. Optional extras include a trailer hitch, roof crossbars and all-weather mats.
The Ascent is an all-new SUV. With standard seating for eight or seven passengers (if you choose the optional captain's chairs in the second row), the Ascent offers plenty of legroom in the third row, which is about on par with its Honda Pilot competitor. Cargo space is such that you'll rarely run out of room for gear and luggage, and the new turbocharged four-cylinder engine not only offers fuel economy, but is also capable of towing more than 2 tons of cargo.
Subaru equips the Ascent with standard all-wheel drive, a signature Subaru feature that drivers in areas with challenging weather conditions will appreciate. And with 8.7 inches of ground clearance, the Ascent can easily handle off-road trips.
Subaru XV 2nd generation (2017-2020)
The midsize Subaru XV Crossover looks even better in its second generation. It features an even better symmetrical permanent all-wheel drive system for even better off-road performance. It also performs well on smooth roads, thanks to a more sophisticated chassis.
Inside, everything has become more technologically advanced, with improved media connectivity and higher safety standards, the basis of which are cameras. Even the base versions look quite attractive thanks to the abundance of soft-touch plastic, high-quality decor. On the dashboard there is a central screen of the infotainment system with a size of 8 inches, which uses a pleasant interface.
Rear-seat access is simplified thanks to doors that open wider than the competition. There's room inside for three adults, but the transmission's high center tunnel makes accommodating them difficult, though for short trips this won't be an issue. The XV's relatively long wheelbase provides ample rear legroom and comfortable legroom under the front seats.
Subaru BRZ (ZC6) 2012-2020
The Subaru BRZ and Toyota 86 are not just related models, but virtually identical cars. Except for a few minor stylistic differences and minor equipment differences. In terms of mechanics and amenities, the BRZ is closer to the upscale version of the Toyota 86 GTS, making the car more luxurious than the base 86 GT.
Aluminum pedals, seats with alcantara and leather upholstery, suede headliner and red stitching add sportiness to the interior. Although in general, the interior looks rather budget. The interior features red backlighting, a Bluetooth system mounted on the windshield.
The BRZ also offers single-zone climate control, cruise control, automatic headlights, power folding mirrors, power windows, an adjustable rev limiter, keyless entry and push-button start, front fog lights, bi-xenon headlights and 17-inch alloy wheels as standard.
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