If you have ever asked yourself, “Is Subaru a good car?”, you are not alone. Subaru has become a popular choice among drivers who want a safe, reliable, and long-lasting vehicle.
Yes, Subaru is a good car brand. Ranked #1 overall by Consumer Reports in 2025, Subaru offers dependable performance, strong reliability scores, and trusted safety features, making it one of the most reliable car choices.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at Subaru’s strengths and weaknesses, what makes it different from other brands, and whether it’s worth buying in 2025.
Quick Answer: Is Subaru a Good Car Overall?
Yes, Subaru is a good car brand. It is known for its reliability, safety, and all-wheel drive system that gives drivers extra control on wet or slippery roads.
Here are the main reasons people like Subaru cars:
- High reliability and owner satisfaction
- Standard all-wheel drive in most models
- Top safety ratings in crash tests
- Strong resale value
Subaru cars are not perfect, but they offer a great balance between performance, safety, and long-term value.
Subaru’s Reputation in the Market
Subaru started as a small carmaker focused on making dependable vehicles for rough weather and outdoor travel. Over time, it built a strong reputation for quality and safety. Many people trust Subaru because their cars tend to last for years with regular care.
Recent reports from car experts show Subaru ranking high in reliability. In 2025, Consumer Reports placed Subaru at the top of its list for overall reliability among all car brands. This means fewer unexpected repairs and more peace of mind for owners.
Subaru has also grown in popularity thanks to its loyal customer base. Many owners choose to buy another Subaru when it’s time to upgrade — a good sign of trust in the brand.
What Makes Subaru a Good Car?
Let’s look at the main things that make Subaru stand out from other car brands.
Reliability and Longevity
Subaru is known for making vehicles that last a long time. With regular maintenance, many Subaru cars can easily pass 200,000 miles. Drivers often say their Subarus keep running smoothly even after a decade of use.
Independent studies and owner surveys have confirmed that Subaru performs very well in long-term dependability. The engines and transmissions are built to handle daily driving as well as rough weather conditions.
Safety Technology
Safety is one of Subaru’s strongest points. The company takes safety seriously, and it shows in the technology used in its vehicles.
Most models come with EyeSight Driver Assist, a system that helps prevent accidents by using cameras to monitor the road ahead. It can warn you if you drift out of your lane or even apply the brakes automatically if a collision is likely.
Many Subaru cars receive Top Safety Pick awards in crash tests, which means they protect passengers well during accidents.
All-Wheel Drive Performance
One thing that makes Subaru different from most other brands is that almost all its vehicles come with all-wheel drive as standard. This system gives power to all four wheels, improving grip and stability.
It’s especially helpful for drivers who live in areas with rain, snow, or rough roads. Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive is balanced and smooth, which helps the car stay stable while turning or climbing hills.
Even for people who don’t drive in harsh conditions, having AWD brings extra confidence and control.
Resale Value and Ownership Cost
Another reason Subaru is a good choice is that it holds its value well. When you sell a Subaru after a few years, it usually brings a better price compared to many other brands.
That’s because people know Subaru cars are reliable and safe. Used-car buyers often search for models like the Outback, Crosstrek, or Forester.
As for ownership cost, maintenance and parts are generally affordable. Subaru engines are built to last, so as long as you keep up with oil changes and regular service, you won’t face high repair bills often.
Potential Downsides of Subaru Cars
No car brand is perfect, and Subaru has a few downsides you should know before buying.
- Fuel Economy: Because of standard all-wheel drive, Subarus can use slightly more fuel than some two-wheel-drive cars.
- Interior Design: Some older models have simple interiors that may not feel as modern or luxurious as other brands.
- Model Differences: Not every Subaru model has the same level of reliability. For example, some performance versions like the WRX may need more maintenance over time.
- Engine Sound: A few drivers mention that Subaru’s boxer engines make a unique sound that takes some getting used to.
These are not deal-breakers, but it’s good to know what to expect before buying.
Subaru Models Overview (2025)
Here’s a look at some of Subaru’s popular models and what they’re best for:
| Model | Best For | Main Strength | Starting Price (Approx.) |
| Outback | Families & Outdoor Trips | Comfort, Space, AWD | $29,000 |
| Crosstrek | City & Adventure Mix | Compact, Fuel Efficient | $25,000 |
| Forester | Safety & Visibility | Great Safety Features | $28,000 |
| Impreza | Budget Buyers | Affordable AWD Sedan | $23,000 |
| Ascent | Large Families | 3-Row SUV, Strong Power | $36,000 |
Each model offers something different, but all share Subaru’s main values — safety, reliability, and all-weather control.
Subaru vs. Its Main Competitors
Subaru competes with brands like Toyota, Honda, and Mazda. Here’s a quick comparison:
- Subaru stands out for its standard all-wheel drive and top safety ratings.
- Toyota is known for excellent fuel economy and a slightly wider service network.
- Honda offers smooth engines and roomy interiors.
- Mazda is praised for stylish design and sporty handling.
Overall, Subaru may not win in luxury or fuel efficiency, but it leads in confidence, control, and long-term reliability.
Real Owner Reviews and Reliability Reports
One of the best ways to judge if a car is good is to listen to the people who drive it every day. Many Subaru owners say they love how safe and steady their cars feel. They often praise the handling in rain or snow and the comfort during long drives.
Consumer Reports and J.D. Power owner surveys both show that Subaru drivers report fewer major problems than average.
Some common positive feedback includes:
- “I feel safe driving my family anywhere.”
- “The all-wheel drive makes me confident even in bad weather.”
- “It’s the most reliable car I’ve ever owned.”
There are also a few minor complaints about noise and fuel use, but overall satisfaction remains very high.
Should You Buy a Subaru in 2025?
Subaru is a smart choice for many types of drivers.
You should consider buying one if you:
- Drive in areas with changing weather or rough roads
- Want a car that will last a long time with regular care
- Value safety and reliability over flashy features
- Need a family car with good space and comfort
If you prefer a car with luxury interiors or very high fuel economy, Subaru might not be your best fit. But for everyday drivers who want a dependable and practical car, it’s hard to go wrong with Subaru.
Is Subaru A Good Car To Buy
Yes, Subaru is a good car to buy. It’s known for great safety, all-wheel drive, and strong reliability. Subaru cars last long, handle rough roads well, and offer comfort for both families and everyday drivers.
Is Subaru A Good Car To Buy Used
Buying a used Subaru is a smart choice. They stay reliable for years if cared for properly. Always check service history and avoid neglected cars. Models like Outback and Forester are great used options.
Subaru Reliability Myth
Some people think Subarus aren’t reliable, but that’s not true. Modern Subaru models are very dependable. With regular maintenance, they can last over 200,000 miles. Older issues were fixed long ago, and recent ratings prove their quality.
Subaru Reliability Vs Toyota
Both Subaru and Toyota are reliable brands. Toyota has slightly better fuel economy and lower maintenance, while Subaru offers stronger grip with all-wheel drive. Overall, Subaru is better for safety and rough roads, Toyota for efficiency.
Most Reliable Subaru Model And Year
The Subaru Outback and Forester are often rated the most reliable models. Recent years like 2021 to 2024 scored high in dependability. They combine strong performance, comfort, and safety, making them great long-term choices.
Are Subarus Expensive To Fix
Subarus are not very expensive to fix compared to other brands. Regular maintenance keeps costs low. Because they use all-wheel drive, some repairs can cost more, but overall they’re affordable and cheaper to maintain long-term.
Is Subaru Suv A Good Car
Yes, Subaru SUVs are great cars. They’re safe, reliable, and handle all kinds of roads. Models like Forester and Ascent give lots of space, comfort, and power, making them perfect for families and outdoor trips.
FAQs
1. How reliable are Subarus?
Subarus are very reliable cars known for lasting long, handling rough roads well, and needing fewer major repairs.
2. Can Subarus last as long as Toyotas?
Yes, Subarus can last as long as Toyotas when properly cared for, often reaching over 200,000 miles easily.
3. What are the downsides of Subaru?
Subarus can use more fuel, cost slightly more to fix, and some older models had minor engine or oil issues.
4. Is Subaru expensive to maintain?
Subaru maintenance costs are average. Regular care keeps them affordable, though all-wheel drive parts can raise repair prices slightly.
5. What is the #1 most reliable car?
According to Consumer Reports, Subaru ranks as the #1 most reliable car brand overall for the 2025 model year.
6. Is Subaru still owned by Toyota?
No, Subaru is independent, but Toyota owns a small share of the company and helps with technology partnerships.
7. Which Subaru model is most reliable?
The Subaru Outback and Forester are the most reliable models, offering strong performance, safety, and long-term dependability.
8. Does Subaru have a Toyota engine?
No, Subaru builds its own engines. However, Subaru and Toyota share some technology in certain hybrid and electric models.
9. Which car holds the highest resale value?
Subaru cars hold strong resale value, but Toyota and Honda models often keep the highest resale value overall.
10. Which is better, Honda or Subaru?
Honda is slightly better in fuel economy, while Subaru wins in safety, all-wheel drive, and rough-weather performance.
Conclusion
Subaru has proven to be one of the most trusted and reliable car brands today. Known for its strong safety ratings, long-lasting performance, and standard all-wheel drive, Subaru offers drivers comfort, confidence, and peace of mind on every journey.
Whether you’re buying new or used, models like the Outback, Forester, and Crosstrek deliver excellent value and dependability. While fuel use can be a little higher, the trade-off is better control, safety, and durability.
In short, Subaru is a smart choice for anyone who wants a reliable, safe, and practical car that’s built to last for years.