Are Subarus Good Cars? Uncover the Truth

by Kelly Crabb · June 19, 2025

According to Subaru of America, the company achieved its best-ever sales in the U.S. in March 2025, selling over 71,000 vehicles. That’s not just a fluke. Subaru’s reputation for reliability, safety, and value has made it a top choice for drivers.

If you’re living in Roseville, CA, you’ve seen these cars cruising your local streets. But are Subarus good cars for you?

Below is a comprehensive guide to Subarus. Let’s dive into the facts, the fun, and the feedback from real owners to get the truth.

What Sets Subaru Apart in Today’s Market?

While other automakers chase shiny new features and flashy designs, Subaru took a different path. Here are the features that make this car stand out:

Subaru Performance

If you love to drive, you’ll appreciate Subaru’s performance. Every Subaru, except the BRZ, comes with symmetrical all-wheel drive (AWD), giving you confidence on wet, snowy, or dusty roads. Key Subaru performance features include:

Symmetrical all-wheel drive: Standard on all models (except BRZ) for superior traction and control
Boxer engine: Low-mounted for a lower center of gravity, enhancing handling and stability
Quick acceleration: WRX reaches 0-60 mph in about 5.4 seconds
Adaptive dampers (WRX tS): Adjust suspension stiffness for comfort or sportier handling
Powerful turbocharged engine: The 2025 WRX’s 2.4L turbo engine produces 271 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque
Transmission options: Six-speed manual for driving purists or Subaru performance transmission for smooth shifts

Subaru’s performance features deliver confidence, control, and excitement on every drive. As a result, you can enjoy smooth and responsive rides.

Subaru Reliability

Buying a Subaru means choosing a car that will last. The research speaks for itself. In 2025, Subaru topped Consumer Reports’ annual auto reliability survey based on surveys of over 300,000 vehicles. It dethroned Lexus and Toyota for the first time in years.

Here is why Subaru’s reliability stands out:

Proven parts: Subaru uses careful engineering and proven components, meaning fewer surprises.
Top models: Forester and Impreza earned the highest reliability scores; Outback, Crosstrek, and Ascent scored above average.
Built tough: Their cars stay on the road for years, and owners report high mileage and few problems.
Happy owners: High owner satisfaction and strong resale values prove Subaru’s lasting value.

When you choose a Subaru, you’re investing in a brand known for durability and long-term dependability. These qualities matter most when you want your car to go the distance.

Subaru Safety

Safety is a top priority for Subaru, and the numbers back it up. For instance, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has named the 2025 Subaru Outback a Top Safety Pick. Safety features that set the Subaru apart include:

Advanced airbag systems & reinforced frame: Protects occupants
Rear-vision camera: Standard on most models to assist with safe reversing
EyeSight® driver assist technology: Uses dual color cameras near the rearview mirror to monitor traffic and hazards ahead
Pre-collision braking: Automatically applies full braking force in emergencies to help reduce frontal impacts
Pre-collision throttle management: Reduces engine power to reduce impact force if a collision happens
Adaptive cruise control: Maintains a safe distance from the car ahead and adjusts speed automatically
Lane keep assist & lane departure warning: Alerts you if you drift out of your lane
Automatic emergency steering: Helps steer around obstacles when braking alone isn’t enough
Lane departure & sway warning: Detects unintended lane drifting and warns the driver to stay focused
Blind spot detection & rear cross-traffic alert: Warns of vehicles in blind spots and approaching traffic when backing up (available on select trims)
DriverFocus® distraction mitigation: Uses facial recognition to detect driver distraction and alerts you (available on higher trims)

These features combine to give Subaru drivers extra confidence and peace of mind on every drive. They also ensure you and your passengers stay safe.

Subaru Pros and Cons

Subaru’s reputation for safety and all-weather capability comes with trade-offs. Here are the major Subaru’s pros and cons so you can make an informed decision when buying a new car.

The pros include:

Top-tier reliability
Excellent resale value
Standard all-wheel drive
Strong safety ratings

Regarding cons, some models have issues. The Ascent and older WRX models have had reliability concerns, especially with transmissions and CVTs.

Subarus also have slightly higher maintenance costs than other Japanese brands. AWD means higher tyre costs. You’ll have to replace all four tires at once, which can add up.

Are Subarus Good Cars? What Drivers and Critics Are Saying

When it comes to whether Subarus are good cars, the answer from both drivers and critics is mostly positive. Subaru models, such as the Forester, Outback, and Crosstrek, stand out for their reliability, safety, and comfort.

Critics also praise Subaru’s strong safety ratings and user-friendly technology. In short, if you’re asking, “Are Subarus good cars?” the high marks from owners and experts suggest they are dependable.

Buying a Subaru: Value, Resale, and Cost of Ownership

Wondering if buying a Subaru is a smart financial move? Here are things to consider before getting one.

Strong Resale Value

Subarus tend to retain their value longer than many of their competitors.

Popular models like the Subaru Crosstrek, BRZ, and Forester are favorites among buyers who want a car that retains its value. This makes Subarus a smart choice if you plan to sell or trade your vehicle in the future.

Cost of Ownership

Subarus are also known for reasonable maintenance and repair costs.

While AWD systems can lead to slightly higher tyre replacement expenses, overall maintenance costs tend to be affordable. Many owners report that their Subaru vehicles run reliably for years with routine maintenance.

Depreciation

Subarus tend to lose value more slowly over time than other brands. You get better value for your money.

Experience Subaru Dependability at Roseville Automall

So, are Subarus good cars? The evidence speaks volumes. You’re looking at models that last longer than most competitors and earn top safety ratings.

At Roseville Automall, we’re the largest group of used car dealers in Northern California, giving you more choices and better prices than anywhere else. Our team guarantees you’ll drive away in your Subaru with confidence.