Are Subaru Cars Good? Everything You Need To Know In 2024

Purchasing a car is likely to be one of the most expensive expenditures you will ever make. Unfortunately, purchasers are primarily interested in the car’s asking price. This myopic behavior frequently results in the purchase of an automobile with little knowledge of how much extra it will cost to own the car in the long term.

When it comes to upkeep, repair, gasoline, and hidden charges, a car may cost you a fortune. As a result, you should purchase the automobile rather than the deal!

are subaru good cars

With that being said, are Subaru’s good cars? Is it reliable?

The answer is a big YES! Subaru has grown from obscurity at the beginning of the century to become one of the world’s fastest-growing and most admired automakers. Not only has the brand risen in leaps and bounds over the last two decades, but it also has a cult following.

Subaru is the only automobile company that offers all-wheel drive as standard on practically every model. On slick surfaces like ice or snow all-wheel drives provide better traction. It can improve performance and handling by distributing weight more evenly and giving a vehicle off-road capability.

Subaru history

Subaru outdoor dealership sign
Subaru outdoor dealership sign.

Subaru’s history dates back to 1950, when Fuji Sangyo Co., Ltd. was founded. According to Japan’s corporate credit restructuring rules, the aircraft manufacturing firm was divided into 12 entities at that time.

Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. (FHI) was founded in July 1953 as a result of investments from five of these companies: Fuji Kogyo, Fuji Jidosha, Omiya Fuji Kogyo, Utsunomiya Sharyo, and Tokyo Fuji Sangyo were among the enterprises that merged with FHI two years later.

The company’s automobile business was given the name “Subaru.” which is a Japanese word that means “unite.” The first Subaru automobile was unveiled in 1954. The P-1 (later renamed the Subaru 1500) was the first car to utilize a monocoque body designed in Japan and was powered by a four-cylinder engine.

It also had front-wheel wishbone-type independent suspension. Due to finance and support issues, sales were temporarily halted, but Subaru quickly rectified its issues and released a sister for its firstborn, the 360, in 1958. The tiny 360, dubbed the Ladybird because of its ladybug design, was a huge hit and was in production for 12 years.

The first Subaru truck was introduced in the 1960s. The Sambar minitruck which was based on the Subaru 360 chassis, had both compact dimensions and a large cargo bed.

The Sambar Light Van, a compact van designed for both business and recreational purposes, soon joined the truck 1000 was introduced in 1966, and it was the first vehicle to adopt the drive technology that is now standard on all Subaru models: a front-wheel-drive system mated to a horizontally opposed engine.

Subaru SAMBAR Dias Classic (V-KV3) front
Subaru SAMBAR Dias Classic (V-KV3) front (Image credit: Tokumeigakarinoaoshima, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons)

This configuration had numerous benefits in terms of handling and performance. Subaru North America had been established by the end of the decade, and shipments to the United States had increased dramatically.

The GL/DL was the first Subaru model introduced in the 1970s. The sedan (which was quickly followed by a coupe and a station wagon) was the first to provide four-wheel drive (4WD). Up until that point. 4WD has only been available in off-road vehicles.

The GL and DL were popular for usage in the snow and in mountainous areas, and they also benefited from the growing popularity of outdoor sports such as skiing and fishing eventually becoming the world’s best-selling 4WD vehicle.

Subaru released the popular Brat in 1977; it was a small car-based truck with a pair of jump seats in the cargo bed. based on the GL. Young people were increasingly looking for a vehicle that was suited for an active lifestyle, and the robust Brat fit the bill wonderfully.

Throughout the 1980s, Subaru continued to provide a diverse range of automobiles, some of which were a little odd. It was the first company in the world to design an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission.

Later that decade, the technology debuted in a new Subaru, the tiny Justy economic car. Subaru’s Legacy, which replaced the departing GL/DL at the end of the 1980s. was born (now called the Loyale in the U.S.). The Legacy, which came in wagon and sedan versions, prioritized performance.

Subaru Legacy emblem on a close up view
Subaru Legacy emblem on a close-up view.

In the 1990s, the carmaker created a name for itself in motorsports by being the first Japanese marque to win the World Rally Championship Manufacturers’ championship three years in a row.

The high-performance SVX, the popular Legacy-based Outback wagon, and the sporty Impreza were all added to the Subaru lineup during this decade. General Motors purchased a 20% share in parent business Fuji Heavy Industries (FHI) in the late 1990s with the goal of boosting its footprint in international markets. However, this partnership did not survive long, and Toyota now owns a small portion of FHI.

Subaru now offers a wide range of vehicles, from tiny trucks to family wagons to high-performance sedans like the WRX STI. The brand is regarded as a top choice for enthusiasts looking for vehicles that combine performance thrills with usefulness.

Subaru car models

Subaru produces SUVs like the Subaru Outback Subaru Forester. Subaru Ascent, and Subaru XV. as well as sedans like the Subaru Legacy. Subaru WRX. Subaru WRX STI. and Subaru Impreza, 5-doors like the Subaru Levorg, and coupes like the Subaru BRZ. Subaru set a production milestone in 2014 when it manufactured 20 million units in Japan.

A close up view of Subaru BRZ emblem
A close up view of Subaru BRZ emblem.

Subaru has also introduced a number of concept vehicles over the years. Concept cars are vehicles that are created to demonstrate new aesthetics or technology. Customers’ reactions to new automotive features and designs are also monitored.

The VIZIV series of Subaru concept cars have been on display since 2013. VIZIV (2013). VIZIV 2 (2014). VIZIV Future (2015). VIZIV-7 SUV (2016). VIZIV Performance (2017). VIZIV Tourer (2018). and VIZIV Adrenaline (2017) are some of the models available (2019). Former Subaru models include:

  • Subaru 360 (1958-1971)
  • Subaru FF-1 Star (1969-1973)
  • Subaru Leone (1971-1994)
  • Subaru Rex (1972-1992)
  • Subaru BRAT (1978-1994)
  • Subaru XT (1985-1991)
  • Subaru Vivio (1992-1998)
  • Subaru Alcyone SVX (1991-1996)
  • Subaru R2 (2003-2010)
  • Subaru R1 (2005-2010)
  • Subaru Tribeca (2005-2014)
  • Subaru Trezia (2005-2017)
  • Subaru Exiga (2008-2018)

What can affect vehicle reliability?

Reliability, often known as dependability in the car industry, refers to a vehicle’s ability to perform consistently with few surprises. This is obviously appealing to customers and promotes brand loyalty. It also expresses the idea that high quality is an investment that safeguards manufacturers’ reputations and appeals.

What determines whether or not a car is dependable is a matter of personal opinion. If a car only needs basic repairs, such as changing oil. replacing the air filter, and changing a tire, a car owner who only drives around town might consider it trustworthy.

Expert Tip: A car that frequently breaks down is considered unreliable. Furthermore, how well you maintain your vehicle and the conditions in which you drive it to have an impact on its dependability.

Regardless of your definition of a reliable vehicle, there are a few ways to tell a reliable car from an unreliable one, including checking reliability reports like Consumer Reports, reading reviews and looking up car ratings on websites like J.D. Power and Edmunds, and asking other car owners on car forums online about your brand questions and concerns.

Is Subarus Reliable?

Orange Subaru SUV passing through muddy lake
Orange Subaru SUV passing through the muddy lake.

Japanese automakers have an unblemished reputation for building the most dependable vehicles, but does Subaru fulfill the bill?

Not only did Japanese automakers take five of the top ten slots in Consumer Report’s 2020 dependability study of 29 automobile brands, but Subaru came in ninth, topping Nissan in 13th place. However, if prior poll results are any indication, the brand’s trustworthiness has been eroding.

Subaru was ranked 7th and 4th in the publication’s 2019 and 2018 surveys, respectively, a significant drop year over year. The brand received a 3.5 out of 5 rating from RepairPals in 2021. placing it 14th out of 32 brands, far behind every other Japanese brand.

Subaru was ranked 7th and 4th in the publication’s 2019 and 2018 surveys, respectively, a significant drop year over year. The brand received a 3.5 out of 5 rating from RepairPals in 2021. placing it 14th out of 32 brands, far behind every other Japanese brand.

The average Subaru receives an unscheduled repair 0.3 times per year, according to RepairPals data. 13 percent of the repairs are considered significant, which is more than the average of 12 percent for all models.

The decrease in reliability can be ascribed to a decline in the build quality of current Subarus, particularly their engines, as well as faults with their in-car technologies, such as the huge Subaru Ascent crossover. Subaru has acknowledged the problem and is working to resolve it. 97 percent of the firm’s vehicles sold in the last ten years are still on the road today, according to the company. Take it how you want.

Performance

A Subaru WRX STI on the move
A Subaru WRX STI on the move.

Subarus are best described as trustworthy appliances on wheels. Despite the fact that several mainstream automakers, such as Mazda and Honda, make a concerted effort to create cars that are fun to drive. Subaru is proof that boring sells.

Subarus are rarely the most powerful, best­handling, or thrilling vehicles in their class. On the contrary, they usually feature enough power, numb steering and floaty rides, which are fine for the ordinary car buyer but not so much for auto fans seeking a little excitement.

Features for Convenience

Subarus are meant to make life easier for both the driver and the passengers, and as a result they have all of the modern-day technology, convenience, and driver-assistance systems. Modern Subarus are available with an advanced infotainment system with a huge touchscreen display.

Bluetooth connectivity, and Wifi connectivity, in addition to Subaru’s EyeSight suite of enhanced safety technologies, which we mentioned before, USB and wireless charging, dual-zone climate control. 360-degree surround-view cameras, heated seats, and steering wheel, a premium Harman Kardon audio system, and many other features are available.

Affordability

Subarus are normally as expensive to buy as their mainstream counterparts, yet because of their cult-like devotion, you may receive fewer incentives and rebates. Even with their low prices, you may get more value because nearly every model comes standard with all-wheel drive, which is a feature that many vehicles only provide on higher trim levels.

Versatility

Versatility is one of the most significant characteristics a vehicle may have. You want to know that your car, truck, or SUV will be able to manage a wide range of terrains and weather conditions.

Furthermore, you want to know that your vehicle is safe and dependable, regardless of when you start it or where you drive it. Subaru is a great example of a car that can be used in a variety of situations. Subaru is a reliable, inexpensive, and modern driving alternative for drivers across the country, with an aggressively confident external design that includes sleek curves and sharp accents.

When it comes to vehicle design. Subaru keeps things basic making it adaptable to a variety of functions and suited for all sorts of drivers. Subaru automobiles are known for their engineering, design, and craftsmanship, making them a popular choice for sedans and crossover SUVs. Subaru’s are also known for their dependability, longevity, and resale value.

Safety

Subaru vehicles are also among the safest to drive, as evidenced by the company’s numerous IIHS safety awards. Subaru’s EyeSight technology has been shown to significantly reduce accidents and is now standard on an increasing number of vehicles. Advanced airbag systems.

Vehicle Dynamics Control, and optional SUBARU STARLINK Safety and Security with features like roadside assistance. Automatic Collision Notification, and SOS Emergency Assistance are among the other safety features on Subarus.

EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology watches for danger ahead to help avoid an accident.

Should you get a Subaru?

One of the many reasons why drivers all around the world trust the Subaru brand is its ability to challenge the status quo and advance safety innovations. Subaru is the only carmaker in the industry to consistently obtain Top Safety Pick ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) for all of its models—from the Impreza to the Crosstrek and beyond—for the past six years and counting.

You should go out and get a Subaru right now! The company is successful not because it produces the best or most reliable vehicles, but because it gives its loyal customers exactly what they want: safe, affordable, and versatile automobiles with basic all-wheel drive. Subarus are, without a doubt, among the safest and most adaptable automobiles on the market today.

They’re also reasonably priced, offer adequate performance for the ordinary driver, and come equipped with the latest convenience features. Subaru is one of the most trustworthy automobile manufacturers in the world, despite recent reliability difficulties that have knocked the firm down a few pegs and the expensive expense of repairing its vehicles.

Expert Tip: When you buy a new model, you get the most up-to-date and advanced features. Subaru understands that innovation is the key to success in the car industry, and they are constantly striving to improve.

Newer models come with additional features than older models, enhancing safety and convenience. You also have the option of customizing your new Subaru to your preferences. A new car is a way to go if you want to have the most up-to-date, cutting-edge amenities.

Are Subarus long-lasting cars?

A blue Subaru car in the middle of a road
A blue Subaru car in the middle of a road

Are Subarus long lasting cars? The answer is yes! From the iconic Forrester to the Outback, Subarus have kept a steady high rank on reliability list, consistently staying within the top 10 most reliable car brands.

If you are asking “Are Subarus long lasting cars?” you might more likely to be considering a car purchase than just collecting facts… As with all cars, avoid the most recent release – give it time to company to identify and work out some kinks of the latest models. On the other hand if you are considering a used Subaru pay attention to the number of previous owner and the regular care and check-ups the car has had.

Even if you are just browsing because all things auto spark your interest, the Japanese mega brand has been a consistent reliable brand is one of the best options for long lasting cars that are all-wheel-dirve (AWD).

Conclusion

Subaru’s reputation for dependability had deteriorated since the early 2010s when the brand was at its peak. This could be due to a number of factors. For starters, there aren’t as many Subaru models as there are Toyota and Ford models, which means that if one or two models fail, the entire brand suffers.

Subarus are also thought to be less dependable because of their hefty repair costs. Because there aren’t many Subarus in the UK. for example, repair expenses are very high. As a result there is a scarcity of auto parts, making maintenance more expensive.

Regardless of what you’ve heard or read about Subarus, they are far from the least dependable vehicle on the market. Based on different reliability assessments, reviews, and ratings that indicate new models perform better than older versions. Subaru is consistently manufacturing better automobiles with fewer faults.

Subaru is still one of the most reliable brands on the market, despite not being the most dependable. Subarus. like most modern cars, require little maintenance and require few repairs. The engine, transmission, four-wheel drive, and differentials are all trustworthy systems and components. According to Mr. Pawlik of Pawlik Automotive Vancouver, if you maintain your Subaru properly, you may get 300.000 miles out of it without having to spend a lot of money.

Subaru cars are known for their dependability, so you can be confident that your new Subaru model will last a long time. In reality, the majority of Subaru models sold in the last ten years are still on the road and performing admirably.

New Subaru vehicles also have excellent safety ratings and are equipped with a variety of technology and driver-assist systems to keep you and your loved ones safe while driving!

If you have any questions, comments or you wanted to know something, don’t hesitate to comment it down!

Avatar photo
About Brock Rangel

Hi, I am Brock, and I am the lead editor/photographer for TheCarColony. I have been a mechanic for over 14 years now, and I am here to spread my car knowledge across the web!