Subaru and AWD: Why All Their Cars Are Not RWD

When it comes to Subaru vehicles, most people associate them primarily with All-Wheel Drive (AWD) systems. This is not without reason, as AWD is indeed a defining feature of the brand's lineup, especially in the United States. However, it's important to note that in certain segments, Subarus have indeed been available with Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD). This article will explore the history of RWD Subarus, their current presence, and the rationale behind Subaru's focus on AWD.

Historical Overview of RWD in Subaru

Back in the earlier years of Subaru, the brand did offer RWD options in their lineup. The Legacy, for instance, had a FWD (Front-Wheel Drive) option in its first generation, before it transitioned to an AWD system. This was a significant change, reflecting the growing consumer demand for all-wheel drive capabilities for better performance and safety, especially in various weather conditions.

Current Lineup

Today, Subaru's lineup in the United States is predominantly AWD, with only a handful of exceptions. A notable RWD model is the BRZ. Developed in partnership with Toyota, the BRZ is a sports car that embodies the classic design of RWD vehicles. It has been in production since 2012, and it is a testament to Subaru's commitment to RWD for a specific segment of the market.

AWD: The Foundation of Subaru's Brand

The reason for Subaru's widespread adoption of AWD systems lies deeply in their brand philosophy and design approach. Subaru's All-Wheel Drive system is renowned for its safety, stability, and capability in all on-road conditions. AWD provides better traction and control during inclement weather, ensuring a safer driving experience, which is a core value of the brand.

The majority of Subaru vehicles are equipped with its xDrive all-wheel-drive system, which delivers up to 100% rear-wheel drive if conditions warrant. This allows for excellent handling and performance, as well as the ability to pull up and drive off diffs that a traditional RWD car might struggle with. For Subaru, AWD has become synonymous with reliability and trustworthiness, which is a key factor in their success in the automotive market.

Subaru BRZ: The Standout RWD Model

The Subaru BRZ is one of the standout RWD models in the Subaru lineup. Originally introduced as a joint venture between Subaru and Toyota, the BRZ has quickly gained a reputation as a track-ready sports car. Its lightweight design and highly-responsive steering provide an exhilarating driving experience, making it a favorite among performance enthusiasts.

Despite the BRZ’s success, it's important to note that it remains a niche model within the Subaru lineup. The majority of their production is dedicated to AWD models, as the broader market has increasingly shown a preference for all-wheel drive vehicles for their versatility and reliability.

Conclusion

In summary, while Subarus have historically offered both RWD and FWD models, the current lineup is predominantly AWD. This shift towards AWD is primarily driven by consumer demand for safety and capability in all on-road conditions. The BRZ, with its RWD design, stands out as a unique and beloved model, but it is an exception rather than the rule. For a brand as renowned for safety and versatility as Subaru, AWD remains the cornerstone of its design philosophy.

For more information on Subaru and their lineup, visit the Subaru official website or explore our full range of models.

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