What Subaru sells right now and how their model years work

Subaru releases new model years in the fall, typically August through October, though the exact timing varies by model and dealer. A "2025 Subaru" sold in late 2024 is a new model year, not a new design — the body shape, engine, and core features stay the same year to year unless Subaru redesigns that model, which happens roughly every five to eight years. When a redesign does happen, Subaru announces it months ahead and the new generation arrives at dealerships in phases.

The current Subaru lineup includes the Outback (midsize wagon), Crosstrek (compact crossover), Forester (midsize crossover), Ascent (three-row crossover), Legacy (sedan), and Impreza (compact sedan and hatchback). Each model comes in multiple trim levels — usually base, mid-range, and premium — and most offer all-wheel drive as standard or optional. Subaru does not make pickup trucks or full-size SUVs, and they do not sell a purely electric vehicle yet, though the Solterra (all-electric crossover) arrived in 2023 as a limited-availability model.

Key Takeaways

  • Subaru releases new model years in fall, and a new model year means updated features and pricing, not necessarily a new design.
  • Most Subaru models come in three to five trim levels, with base models starting around $25,000 to $30,000 and premium trims reaching $40,000 to $50,000 before options.
  • All-wheel drive is standard on most Subaru models or costs $1,500 to $2,500 extra if optional, and affects fuel economy and insurance rates.
  • Subaru's warranty covers the powertrain for five years or 60,000 miles, and the body for three years or 36,000 miles, which is shorter than some competitors.
  • Dealer inventory, pricing, and incentives vary widely by location and season, so comparing prices across multiple dealers before visiting is common practice.

How trim levels and pricing break down

Each Subaru model offers a base trim and one to four higher trims with more features. The base Crosstrek starts around $25,000 to $26,000 before destination and taxes; adding the next trim level adds roughly $2,000 to $3,000, and each step up adds similar amounts. A fully loaded Ascent (the largest model) can reach $50,000 or more. These are manufacturer suggested retail prices (MSRP), and actual dealer prices vary based on local demand, dealer markup, and current incentives.

Options are priced separately and stack on top of trim price. A sunroof typically costs $1,200 to $1,500. Leather seats run $1,500 to $2,000. Navigation and infotainment upgrades range from $500 to $1,500 depending on the model. All-wheel drive, where it is not standard, costs $1,500 to $2,500. Subaru bundles some options into packages — for example, a "Technology Package" might include navigation, a power sunroof, and upgraded audio for less than buying each separately.

All-wheel drive: standard, optional, or not available

Subaru is known for standard all-wheel drive across most of its lineup. The Outback, Crosstrek, Forester, Ascent, and Legacy all come with all-wheel drive as the default. The Impreza offers all-wheel drive on most trims but front-wheel drive on the base model. This means you cannot order a new Outback or Ascent with front-wheel drive only — you get all-wheel drive or you choose a different model.

All-wheel drive increases the purchase price by $1,500 to $2,500 on models where it is optional, and it reduces fuel economy by roughly 1 to 3 miles per gallon depending on the model. Insurance premiums are sometimes slightly higher for all-wheel drive vehicles, though this varies by insurer and location. Resale value for all-wheel drive Subarus tends to hold better in regions with winter weather, and worse in warm climates where all-wheel drive is less common.

Engine options and fuel economy

Most current Subaru models use a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 180 to 182 horsepower, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). The Ascent uses a turbocharged 2.4-liter engine with 260 horsepower. Subaru does not offer V6 or larger engines in its current lineup. Fuel economy ranges from roughly 26 to 29 miles per gallon combined for most models with the standard engine, and 21 to 24 mpg for the turbocharged Ascent.

Subaru's engines are designed to run on regular unleaded gasoline (87 octane). The company does not currently offer hybrid powertrains in its core models, though the Solterra is fully electric. Towing capacity varies by model — the Outback and Ascent can tow 3,500 pounds, while smaller models are not rated for towing.

Warranty coverage and what it includes

Subaru's basic warranty covers the powertrain (engine, transmission, drivetrain) for five years or 60,000 miles, whichever comes first. The body and paint are covered for three years or 36,000 miles. This is shorter than some competitors — Toyota's powertrain warranty is five years or 60,000 miles, and Honda's is three years or 36,000 miles, so Subaru is in the middle. Rust perforation is covered for five years with no mileage limit, which is better than many brands.

The warranty does not cover wear items like brake pads, wiper blades, or tires. It does not cover damage from accidents, neglect, or using the wrong fuel type. Subaru offers extended warranties through dealers, typically covering an additional three to five years and up to 100,000 miles total, though the cost and exact terms vary by dealer and model.

How to find pricing and inventory near you

Subaru's official website lists all current models and trims, but does not show local inventory or pricing — you must contact dealers directly or use third-party sites like Edmunds, Kelley Blue Book, or Cars.com to search inventory across multiple dealers in your area. Dealer prices for the same model and trim can vary by $2,000 to $5,000 or more depending on location, demand, and how long the vehicle has been on the lot.

Incentives and rebates change monthly and vary by region. Some months Subaru offers cash rebates on certain models; other months they offer low-interest financing instead. Dealer-specific incentives (discounts the dealer offers from their own margin) are negotiable and not published. Checking multiple dealers' websites and calling to ask about current incentives takes 30 minutes and often saves hundreds of dollars.

When new model years arrive and how to decide between years

New model years typically arrive at dealerships in August through October. The previous model year is usually discounted as dealers clear inventory to make room. If you are flexible on timing, buying the outgoing model year in fall can save 5 to 15 percent compared to the new model year, though you lose the latest features and a full year of warranty coverage.

The difference between consecutive model years is usually minor — a new infotainment system, updated safety features, or revised trim names — unless Subaru has redesigned that model. Redesigns happen roughly every five to eight years and involve a new body shape, new interior, and often new engines. Checking Subaru's press releases or calling a dealer can tell you whether the model you want is in a redesign year or a carryover year.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a new model year and a redesign?

A new model year (2025 vs. 2024) usually means updated features, new colors, and revised trim names, but the same body shape and engine. A redesign is a full overhaul — new exterior, new interior, often a new engine — and happens roughly every five to eight years per model. Subaru announces redesigns months in advance.

Does Subaru offer any electric or hybrid models?

Subaru sells the Solterra, a fully electric crossover that arrived in 2023, but availability is limited and varies by region. Subaru does not currently offer hybrid versions of its core models like the Outback or Forester, though the company has announced plans for more electrified models in coming years.

Can I order a Subaru with front-wheel drive only?

Most Subaru models come with all-wheel drive as standard and cannot be ordered without it. The Impreza is the exception — the base trim offers front-wheel drive, while higher trims include all-wheel drive. If front-wheel drive is important to you, the Impreza is your only current option.

How much does it cost to add options like a sunroof or leather seats?

A sunroof typically costs $1,200 to $1,500. Leather seats run $1,500 to $2,000. Navigation and upgraded audio range from $500 to $1,500. Subaru often bundles options into packages that cost less than buying each separately, so asking the dealer about package pricing can save money.

What should I know about Subaru's warranty compared to other brands?

Subaru's powertrain warranty is five years or 60,000 miles, and the body is three years or 36,000 miles. This matches or falls slightly short of competitors like Toyota and Honda. Rust perforation coverage extends to five years with no mileage limit, which is better than many brands. Extended warranties are available through dealers.