Designed for the conditions here
The best adventures are the ones you’re prepared for. Symmetrical Full-Time AWD is here to handle all-weather conditions. We have been fine-tuning our symmetrical AWD technology for over 40 years. This wealth of experience has led to a vehicle line up with the widest range of AWD systems offered by any one manufacturer. We take AWD seriously because we know that – if the goal is making cars safer, more capable and more fun-to-drive, in all possible driving conditions, with higher levels of confidence – 4 is better than 2.
2WD vs Part-time AWD vs Full-time AWD:
The battle for traction, control and confidence
Stay in control in all-road conditions with Symmetrical Full-Time AWD. Traction dictates how well a vehicle accelerates, how it handles curves and inclines, how quickly it stops and how it performs on uneven or slick surfaces. Capturing the most traction possible is key to optimizing vehicle performance, handling and proactive safety in a variety of conditions. Here are some reasons why 4 is better than 2 in this respect – and why Subaru symmetrical full-time AWD is a better 4.
Full-time AWD = Full-time Benefits
More confidence = more fun to drive
Sending power to all four wheels gives a vehicle more grip, more predictable handling, better agility and greater control. These advantages result in a stronger connection between the road and the car, an increased sense of confidence for the driver and more sheer enjoyment behind the wheel. Subaru symmetrical full-time AWD is engineered to deliver confidence in motion – in all seasons and on all roads, especially the twisty and challenging ones.
More traction + more stability = greater safety
Subaru’s symmetrical full-time AWD is just that – full-time. It is always engaged and is therefore better equipped to handle unexpected circumstances. It distributes power among all four wheels in a balanced manner that creates greater stability and captures more traction, outperforming FWD or part-time (on-demand) systems every time. Even when one wheel hits a slippery or loose surface, all four wheels remain powered to maximize every opportunity for traction and increased levels of control.
All-road, all-weather capability = more freedom
Rain, sleet, snow and ice have the very real potential to sideline even the best-laid plans. But Subaru symmetrical full-time AWD has the capability to make quick work of more challenging driving conditions, including gravel roads and even more adventurous trails where drivers of FWD or part-time (on-demand) AWD vehicles would never dare venture.
Smarter design = better economy + more durability
Some AWD systems are considered overly complex and not all that reliable or economical. But these criticisms are more suited to truck-like 4WD systems – 4WD is not like AWD. Subaru symmetrical full-time AWD is not like run-of-the-mill AWD, either. The engine is mounted in-line with the drivetrain to deliver power to all four wheels directly and efficiently without additional components required. A smarter design with fewer components means reduced complexity, greater durability, increased fuel-efficiency (comparable to FWD on most models) and lower maintenance costs.
Why symmetry makes all the difference
While other manufacturers bolt AWD on to existing vehicle designs, Subaru started from the ground up to engineer a total system with every component designed to support AWD. The engine, transmission and centre differential are compact, efficient and set along the centre line of the vehicle for near perfect balance side-to-side, smoother power delivery and greater stability, especially in the corners.
How to achieve near-perfect balance:
Start with a horizontally opposed (“boxer”) engine with a short overhang for greatly enhanced agility. Its flat profile also enables a lower centre of gravity for a more planted feeling, better handling and improved stability overall.
Make this engine compact and lightweight. Link it to a compact, lightweight transmission. Connect both to a compact, lightweight differential.
Place the engine/transmission/differential package longitudinally along the centre line of the vehicle for improved efficiency and ideal balance, left to right.
Set this package over the front axle to make the vehicle less nose-heavy, thereby reducing dive under sharp braking and minimizing yaw, the tendency of a vehicle to spin.
Employ an independent, long-travel suspension system with equal-length axle shafts, front and back, to eliminate torque steer and maximize tire contact with the road, no matter the road conditions.
The Subaru AWD Systems
The truth of the matter is, one size never fits all. This is why Subaru doesn’t offer just one type of symmetrical full-time AWD system, but rather a variety of different systems that fall into four broader categories. Each system is tailored and tuned to suit the individual characteristics of the vehicle and driver: