The Best Subaru For Off-Road Use

By Derrick •  Updated: 08/24/22 •  7 min read

Subaru is a manufacturer that every day offers more options to its customers. Thanks to this continuous development, the brand’s popularity increases daily in the off-road world. Several of its leading models offer almost 9 inches of ground clearance and various advanced technologies. Suppose you’re just starting off-roading. In that case, you may be evaluating an AWD SUV and thinking of Subaru, but what is the best Subaru for off-roading?

According to qualified professionals, some of the best Subaru off-roaders are the Forester, Outback, Ascent, and Crosstrek models. These vehicles can negotiate intermediate to significant obstacles, are AWD, have high ground clearance, and have the best traction force.

Selecting the best Subaru for off-road adventures will depend on how far we want to go off-road. A wide range of Subaru models has rear-wheel drive, significantly enhancing the evaluation alternatives. We can find multiple options that can adapt to virtually all types of terrain and all budgets. We invite you to continue reading to find out which is the perfect Subaru.

What Are The Significant Advantages Of A Subaru Vehicle?

It is a fact that Subaru is one of the leading brands in the off-road world. But those just starting this activity may wonder what makes Subaru such a respected off-roader; here are some reasons.

Ground Clearance Of Subaru Vehicles

The Outback, Crosstrek, Forester, and Ascent models have a ground clearance of 8.7 inches. Due to its geography, the Subaru vehicle is a reliable option for reaching the most isolated and intricate places.

Innovative Technology For Off-Road And On-Road Use

The latest Subaru models come standard with the X-Mode. This driving mode helps drivers successfully maneuver in adverse conditions and terrain. X-Mode can coordinate the transmission, throttle, AWD system, and braking, offering the driver more excellent driving safety when conditions warrant.

X-Mode is ideal for sand, mud, snow, and gravel use. Another great advantage of Mode X is that it helps the driver cope with steep descents thanks to Hill Descent Control. X-Mode activates the brakes and accelerator automatically, allowing the driver to concentrate on avoiding obstacles on the road.

We Can Make Simple And Affordable Off-Road Modifications

Suppose we are demanding drivers and find that the Subaru’s performance is insufficient for what we want to do. In that case, we can make relatively simple modifications to our SUV.

One of the most common modifications is to get more ground clearance. To achieve this, you must purchase a lift kit that costs approximately US$ 150 and is pretty easy to install at any mechanic’s shop. Another common and simple improvement is to change the tires for larger ones that add more ground clearance and grip.

Versatile Performance

Subaru’s symmetrical four-wheel drive system is powerful for tackling complex forest terrain and multiple conditions. The Subaru offers safe driving in the rain, in tight corners, on trails, or even to move around town.

During the winter, drivers can go out safely, even in extreme weather. Many trucks or SUVs have trouble maintaining stability on slippery surfaces. Subaru, on the other hand, can move without any problems.

Subaru Can Save Fuel

Subaru’s solid ability to perform on and off-road is not just limited to power and traction performance. The Subaru also stands out for its excellent gas mileage. The Subaru is not only an outdoor vehicle for off-road use but also very economical and affordable to drive.

The Reliability Of The Subaru

When we need to travel and travel in complex terrain, it is essential to have a reliable vehicle that gives us peace of mind and safety in driving. According to the website TorqueNews, Subaru is the fourth most reliable SUV brand; considering that Honda, Ford, and Toyota are on the list, Subaru’s position is more than impressive.

What Is The Best Subaru For Off-Road?

Suppose you want to buy a Subaru that will take you safely, stably, and with high performance off-road. In that case, you should evaluate this brand’s different options. Subaru has a range of vehicles specifically designed and engineered for off-road use. These models come with the Subaru X-Mode Intelligent Drive transmission, more ground clearance, armored bodywork, and off-road tires. Next, we will focus on the models that all the experts recommend.

Subaru Forester/Forester Wilderness

The Subaru Forester features advanced technology within the off-road segment and safety features that set it apart from other vehicles. Some attributes that make this car very attractive are the impressive design of the headlights and grille.

The Forester has a driving assistance technology that provides the driver with an unbeatable feeling of safety during the trip. Forester has a driver distraction mitigation system that reduces the number of unwanted events.

The Forester also features a balanced, symmetrical all-wheel-drive design, which makes the distribution of tractive power much better.

The Subaru Forester also gets high marks when it comes to engine capability. This SUV can handle the demanding challenges of off-road travel.

Like the Forester model, the Forester Wilderness has excellent ground clearance, which is one of the crucial factors in determining the performance of an off-road vehicle. The Forester Wilderness has an armored interior lining that makes it capable of withstanding any challenge during rough terrain travel.

The Forester Wilderness has the Subaru Boxer direct injection engine, which will produce maximum torque and power to tackle any off-road activity successfully.

Subaru Outback

The most outstanding feature of the Subaru Outback is the safety it provides to the driver. This model also features a driver distraction mitigation system.

The Outback’s exterior is rugged, while its interior features a unique design style that further enhances the appeal of this powerful SUV. The Outback has a turbocharged Subaru Boxer engine that delivers up to 277 lb-ft of torque.

One of the main reasons to choose the Outback is because it can overcome very challenging routes during an off-road trip. In addition, the Outback has a ground clearance of 11.5 inches, which is essential for safety.

Subaru Ascent

The main feature of the Subaru Ascent is its ample space. The Ascent is a vehicle where you can carry all family members comfortably. The Ascent features normal vision and driver assistance technology, making it a safe car for bumpy rides.

A deciding factor in choosing the Ascent is its standard symmetrical all-wheel drive and 5,000-pound towing capacity. This vehicle has a construction and design system that ensures durability and strength.

The main reasons drivers choose the Ascents are its 8.7-inch ground clearance and engine capacity.

Subaru Crosstrek

The Subaru Crosstrek has several unique features that make it ideal for off-road adventures. The Crosstrek’s symmetrical all-wheel-drive capability is one of its greatest attributes. Most Crosstrek buyers are also impressed by its driver-assist technology because of the peace of mind they feel when driving it on every trip.

The Crosstrek features a Subaru Boxer engine with 182 hp and 176 nm torque. This engine can generate additional power to make the ride smoother and exciting. The Subaru Boxer has a design that ensures natural balance and a low center of gravity, which is ideal for maximum stability.

The Crosstrek also features a balanced, symmetrical all-wheel drive design that maintains optimal power distribution. The Crosstrek also has an impressive fuel efficiency of up to 34 MPG and over 500 miles of driving range.

Another of the Crosstrek’s outstanding attributes is its 8.7 inches of ground clearance, which makes it perfect for off-roading. This type of feature provides better traction in slippery terrain conditions.

The Crosstrek has an available dual-function X-Mode that helps the vehicle traverse dirt, snow, and mud roads.

A Final Thought On The Best Subaru Off-Roaders

The Subaru models described offer all the best of the off-road world. My personal preference would be the Subaru Forester, and if you can afford the additional money, the Forester Wilderness edition would be my pick for off-road use.

Some impressive features include an efficient traction system, excellent ground clearance, driver-assist technology, an engine that guarantees perfect power, and a safety system that will provide the driver and passenger peace of mind during their adventurous journey.

Derrick