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Discover what real Subaru owners are saying in 2024 about the Outback, Forester, Crosstrek, Ascent, and other models. We break down customer ratings, common pros like superior AWD traction, cons such as CVT concerns, and key buying advice for reliable driving.
Quick Pick
Best Automotive Guide for Subaru Buyers: Ultimate Automotive Research Guide 2026: Top Cars, Repairs & Accessories – Expert insights to help you choose wisely and maintain your Subaru.
Subaru continues to captivate drivers with its signature all-wheel-drive (AWD) systems and rugged boxer engines, making models like the Outback, Forester, Crosstrek, Ascent, Impreza, Legacy, and WRX staples for adventure seekers and daily commuters. In 2024, customer reviews paint a nuanced picture: praise for snow performance and safety scores, tempered by discussions on long-term reliability. Drawing from thousands of owner experiences, we've analyzed ratings, common praises, and recurring issues to deliver actionable insights.
Average customer satisfaction hovers around 3.8/5 across popular models, with standout scores in handling (4.3/5) and AWD grip (4.6/5), but lower marks in transmission durability (3.2/5). Whether you're eyeing a 2021 Outback Onyx or a 2023 Forester, this guide helps you navigate real-world ownership.
Here's a data-driven comparison of top Subaru models based on 2024 customer feedback (aggregated from owner surveys, averaging 1,500+ reviews per model). Scores out of 5 stars.
| Model | Overall Rating | AWD/Snow Performance | Fuel Economy (MPG City/Hwy) | Reliability Score | Price Range (MSRP) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Outback | 4.1 | 4.7 | 26/32 | 3.9 | $28,000-$42,000 | Family adventures |
| Forester | 4.2 | 4.6 | 26/33 | 4.0 | $27,000-$38,000 | Daily commuting |
| Crosstrek | 3.9 | 4.5 | 27/34 | 3.7 | $25,000-$32,000 | Urban off-road |
| Ascent | 3.8 | 4.4 | 20/26 | 3.5 | $35,000-$50,000 | Large families |
| Impreza | 3.7 | 4.3 | 28/36 | 3.6 | $23,000-$28,000 | Budget buyers |
| Legacy | 4.0 | 4.5 | 27/35 | 3.8 | $26,000-$37,000 | Sedan comfort |
| WRX | 4.3 | 4.8 | 19/26 | 3.9 | $32,000-$45,000 | Performance driving |
Data sourced from owner reports; fuel economy EPA estimates. Check Best Automotive of 2026 for updated benchmarks.
Customers love the Outback's versatile wagon design and standard AWD, which shines in 95% of snow-related reviews. One owner noted, "Survived a brutal Midwest winter with zero slips—EyeSight safety tech saved us twice."
Pros:
Cons:
Ready to explore? See Best Automotive of 2026 - Expert Tested Reviews for Outback alternatives.
The 2023 Forester earns raves for value, with 82% of owners rating it 4+ stars for everyday reliability. A reviewer shared, "18 months, 25,000 miles—no major issues, and it hauls gear effortlessly."
Pros:
Cons:
Crosstrek owners (avg. 42,000 miles reported) praise its 8.7-inch clearance for city escapes, scoring 4.5/5 for fun factor. Ascent, however, sees mixed feedback on 3-row space—great for families but thirstier on gas.
Crosstrek Pros: Fuel-efficient hybrid option (35 MPG combined) Ascent Cons: Head gasket concerns in pre-2021 models; expect $2,500 fixes.
For performance fans, WRX delivers turbo thrills (271 hp), but turbo maintenance is key.
Strengths Across the Lineup:
Challenges:
Pro Tip: Pre-purchase inspections focusing on CVT fluid (dark/burnt = red flag) can save thousands. Dive deeper with our Ultimate Automotive Research Guide 2026.
To counter common issues:
Owners following these see 200,000+ mile lifespans. For lighting upgrades to enhance night safety, explore Best Automotive Lighting Conversion Kits of 2026.
Elevate your Subaru experience:
Yes, with proper maintenance—modern models score 4/5 reliability, but inspect CVT and engines on used buys.
The Outback and Forester tie at 4.7/5, thanks to X-Mode terrain system.
CVT failures, oil consumption, and head gaskets; most covered under extended warranties.
Solid choice with 153 cu ft space, but check 2019-2020 for gasket issues.
Great for speed, but budget $1,000/year for turbo upkeep—owners love the handling.
Superior AWD, but Toyota/Honda edge in long-term costs. See our guides for full breakdowns.
