AWD, 4WD & RWD: What to Know When Shopping for a Subaru

One of Subaru’s standout features is its focus on all-wheel drive (AWD), but you might wonder what other drive types are available when shopping for a vehicle.

At Hicks Family Subaru, we’re proud to offer vehicles that deliver exceptional performance and versatility, making them ideal for everything from daily commutes to outdoor adventures. One of the standout features of Subaru vehicles is their focus on all-wheel drive (AWD), but you might wonder what other drive types, such as four-wheel drive (4WD) and rear-wheel drive (RWD), are available when shopping for a vehicle. 

Subaru All-Wheel Drive (AWD)

Nearly every Subaru model comes standard with Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD). Subaru’s AWD system is one of the most advanced in the industry, delivering power to all four wheels simultaneously for maximum traction, stability, and control. This system is great for handling various road conditions, whether rain, snow, or gravel. AWD is the go-to choice for Subaru drivers in Corpus Christi seeking reliability on city streets and rugged terrains.

Here are the Subaru models that feature Symmetrical AWD:

• Subaru Outback – A favorite among adventure-seekers, the Outback combines SUV capability with car-like handling, offering AWD across all trims.
• Subaru Forester – With its spacious interior and impressive ground clearance, the Forester is perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts, featuring standard AWD for all-weather capability.
• Subaru Crosstrek – This compact SUV is ready for both urban driving and off-road fun, equipped with Subaru’s signature AWD.
• Subaru Ascent – Subaru’s largest SUV, the Ascent, comes with AWD standard, making it ideal for large Coastal Bend families who need performance and a sense of security in unexpected conditions.
• Subaru WRX – Known for its rally-car heritage, the WRX comes standard with AWD, offering high performance and excellent grip for sportier driving.
• Subaru Legacy – One of the few sedans on the market to come with AWD as standard, the Legacy delivers both comfort and confidence on the road.

Four-Wheel Drive (4WD)

Subaru primarily focuses on AWD and does not currently offer 4WD systems in its lineup. 4WD systems are more commonly found in off-road-oriented vehicles and trucks designed for low-speed, rugged conditions. Subaru’s AWD, however, is designed to provide many of the same benefits of 4WD, with the added benefit of improved handling and fuel efficiency in everyday driving scenarios.

Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD)

RWD is typically found in sports cars and trucks where more power is directed to the back wheels, enhancing acceleration and performance. While Subaru is famous for its AWD system, the Subaru BRZ stands out as an exception. The BRZ is the only Subaru model that comes equipped with Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD), giving it a unique edge in the lineup. It pairs the SUBARU BOXER® engine—which is known for its low center of gravity and smooth power delivery—with an RWD drivetrain, offering an exhilarating, sporty driving experience. This layout shifts more of the vehicle’s weight to the rear wheels, helping to improve traction during acceleration and making it ideal for spirited driving.

Some key features that make the BRZ a standout choice for performance lovers include:

• Lightweight Construction – With a focus on keeping the car as nimble as possible, the BRZ is designed to provide an ideal power-to-weight ratio for maximum speed and agility.
• Precision Handling – The RWD setup and Subaru’s low-mounted BOXER engine ensure optimal balance, giving drivers confidence in every corner.
• Sport-Tuned Suspension—The BRZ has a performance-oriented suspension system that enhances road feel and offers the responsive feedback that many driving enthusiasts crave.

Why Subaru AWD?

Subaru’s Symmetrical AWD system is more than just an all-wheel drive setup—it’s engineered for perfect balance, offering seamless power distribution for optimal traction. Unlike 4WD systems that require driver input, Subaru’s AWD system works automatically, giving you peace when your focus needs to stay on the road ahead. Whether cruising on the highway, navigating city streets, or heading off-road, Subaru’s AWD helps provide unmatched control and confidence.

Ready for a Test Drive?

If you’re curious about how Subaru’s AWD performs on the road, visit Hicks Family Subaru in Robstown, TX. We invite you to schedule a test drive and experience firsthand how these AWD vehicles handle. Or, take the Subaru BRZ out for a spin to feel its energy! When you’re ready to upgrade your vehicle, see how much your current car is worth and start your next adventure in a Subaru.

Hicks Family Subaru in Robstown, TX is conveniently located within an hour’s drive of Corpus Christi, Kingsville, Alice, Portland, and Sinton, making it an ideal destination for Subaru shoppers across South Texas.