Subaru has been a favorite among car enthusiasts since its inception in 1953. Over the years, it has built a reputation for producing reliable, safe, and practical cars that can withstand even the harshest conditions. In this review, we will take a closer look at the pros and cons of Subaru cars to help you decide whether investing in one is worth it.
Who Should Consider Buying a Subaru?
Subaru cars are perfect for anyone looking for a reliable, practical, and efficient vehicle. They are ideal for people who live in areas with harsh weather conditions or those who enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, camping, and skiing. Subaru cars have ample cargo space, making them perfect for families and anyone who needs to carry large items regularly. Additionally, Subaru’s EyeSight driver-assist technology makes it a safe option for anyone, particularly those who frequently drive on busy highways.
What Makes Subaru Cars Stand Out?
Subaru cars stand out because of their unique features, including:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive
Subaru cars come equipped with a symmetrical all-wheel-drive system, allowing them to handle any terrain with ease. The system ensures that the car’s weight is distributed evenly, providing optimal balance and control. This feature makes Subaru cars ideal for winter driving, off-road adventures, and even high-speed cruising.
Boxer Engine
Subaru cars use a boxer engine, which means the engine’s pistons move horizontally instead of vertically. This design provides better balance and stability, resulting in a smoother, more enjoyable ride.
EyeSight Driver-Assist Technology
EyeSight is Subaru’s driver-assistance technology that uses cameras and sensors to monitor surrounding traffic and objects. It includes features such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and pre-collision braking, making it one of the safest cars on the road.
When Should You Buy a Subaru?
Subaru cars can be purchased at any time of the year. However, if you want to take advantage of seasonal deals and discounts, it’s best to buy them during the end-of-year sales or in the summer months when dealerships are looking to clear out inventory.
How to Choose the Right Subaru Car for You?
Choosing the right Subaru car depends on your specific needs and preferences. Here are some factors to consider:
Size
If you have a large family or need ample cargo space, consider getting a larger model like the Subaru Ascent or Outback. However, if you need a smaller car for commuting purposes or city driving, the Impreza or Crosstrek may be more suitable.
Performance
If you enjoy high-speed driving or off-road adventures, getting a Subaru WRX or Forester would be ideal. However, if you prioritize fuel efficiency over performance, the Legacy or Impreza would be better options.
Budget
Subaru cars come in different price ranges, so it’s important to choose a car that fits your budget. If you’re looking for a luxury car, the Subaru Ascent or Outback would be suitable. However, if you’re looking for a more affordable option, the Crosstrek or Impreza would be better choices.
Pros and Cons of Buying a Subaru Car
Like every other car brand, Subaru has its pros and cons. Here are some of them:
Pros
- Reliability: Subaru cars are known for their durability, making them a long-lasting investment.
- Safety: Subaru’s EyeSight technology makes it one of the safest cars on the road.
- All-wheel-drive: The symmetrical all-wheel-drive system ensures optimal control and balance no matter the terrain.
- Practicality: Subaru cars have ample cargo space, making them perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts.
- Resale value: Subaru cars hold their value better than most other car brands.
Cons
- Expensive repairs: Though Subaru cars are reliable, repairs can be costly due to the brand’s unique features and technology.
- Fuel economy: Some of Subaru’s larger models have low fuel efficiency ratings compared to other car brands.
- Noisy engine: The boxer engine design can result in a louder engine noise, which may not suit some drivers’ preferences.
Alternatives to Subaru Cars
If you’re considering buying a Subaru car but want to explore alternatives, here are some options:
Honda
Honda cars are known for their reliability and fuel efficiency. They are also more affordable than many Subaru models.
Toyota
Toyota cars are comparable to Subaru cars in terms of reliability and safety. They are also more fuel-efficient and less expensive than some of Subaru’s larger models.
Mazda
Mazda cars are stylish, fun to drive, and fuel-efficient. They are ideal for city driving and commuting purposes.
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Maintain Your Subaru Car
Maintaining your Subaru car is crucial to ensure its longevity and reliability. Here are some stepsto follow:
- Regularly change the oil and oil filter: Subaru recommends changing the oil every 6,000 miles or six months, whichever comes first.
- Rotate your tires every 6,000 to 8,000 miles: This ensures that the tires wear evenly, improving their longevity.
- Check your brakes: Have your brakes checked regularly to ensure they are functioning correctly.
- Replace your air filter: Subaru recommends replacing the air filter every 30,000 miles.
- Keep your car clean: Regularly washing and waxing your car can help protect its surface from scratches and damage caused by dirt and debris.
- Check your fluids: Ensure that your coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid levels are at the recommended levels.
Comparing Subaru Cars to Other Brands
Subaru cars are unique, but how do they compare to other brands? Here’s a comparison of Subaru and some other car brands:
Subaru vs. Honda
- Reliability: Both brands are reliable, but Subarus have a higher resale value.
- Performance: Honda cars are more fuel-efficient than Subarus but have less horsepower.
- Safety: Both brands are safe, but Subaru’s EyeSight technology provides better driver-assist features.
Subaru vs. Toyota
- Reliability: Both brands are reliable, but Subarus are known for being more durable.
- Performance: Subaru cars have better handling and stability, while Toyotas have better fuel efficiency ratings.
- Safety: Both brands have good safety ratings, but Subaru’s EyeSight technology provides more advanced safety features.
Subaru vs. Mazda
- Reliability: Both brands are reliable, but Subarus have a higher resale value.
- Performance: Subaru cars have better handling and off-road capabilities, while Mazdas are more fuel-efficient and sportier.
- Safety: Both brands have good safety ratings, but Subaru’s EyeSight technology provides more advanced safety features.
Tips for Buying a Subaru Car
If you’re interested in buying a Subaru car, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Research different models and compare them to your needs and lifestyle.
- Test drive the car before making a purchase to ensure it’s the right fit for you.
- Negotiate with the dealership to get the best deal possible.
- Consider buying a used Subaru to save money.
- Invest in Subaru’s extended warranty to protect your investment.
The Best Subaru Cars of 2023
According to Car and Driver, the best Subaru cars of 2023 are:
- Subaru Outback: This crossover SUV is perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts. It has ample cargo space, all-wheel drive, and advanced driver-assist features.
- Subaru Ascent: This midsize SUV is ideal for larger families or anyone who needs ample passenger and cargo space. It also has excellent safety ratings and all-wheel drive.
- Subaru Crosstrek: This compact SUV is perfect for city driving and commuting purposes. It has all-wheel drive, good fuel efficiency ratings, and a stylish design.
Conclusion
Subaru cars are reliable, safe, practical, and unique vehicles that have been popular for many years. They are ideal for people who live in areas with harsh weather conditions, outdoor enthusiasts, and families. While they may have some cons like expensive repairs and low fuel efficiency ratings, their pros outweigh the cons. By following proper maintenance procedures, investing in an extended warranty, and comparing different models to your needs, you can make an informed decision when buying a Subaru car.
FAQs
- Are Subaru cars expensive to repair?
- Yes, repairs for Subaru cars can be costly due to their unique features and technology.
- What makes Subaru cars stand out?
- Subaru cars stand out because of their symmetrical all-wheel-drive system, boxer engine, and EyeSight driver-assist technology.
- What is the fuel efficiency of Subaru cars?
- Subaru cars have varying fuel efficiency ratings depending on the model. Some of their larger models have lower fuel economy ratings compared to other car brands.
- What is the resale value of Subaru cars?
- Subaru cars are known for holding their value better than most other car brands.
- Does Subaru offer extended warranties?
- Yes, Subaru offers extended warranties that can help protect your investment.
