When evaluating a Subaru Forester, the question of all wheel drive capability is often at the forefront of a buyer's inquiry. The short answer is that, with a single, critical exception, every new Subaru Forester comes equipped with standard symmetrical all wheel drive. This engineering choice is not merely a marketing gimmick but a foundational element of the Subaru philosophy, designed to provide traction, stability, and confidence in a wide array of driving conditions, from rainy city streets to light off-road adventures.
The Standard AWD System
Subaru's signature symmetrical all wheel drive system is standard across the entire Forester lineup, including the base models. The system features a horizontally opposed "flat" engine design that lowers the center of gravity, paired with a symmetrical drivetrain that sends power evenly to all four wheels. This configuration is fundamental to the vehicle's handling, as it distributes power effectively to the wheels with the most grip, significantly reducing wheel spin during acceleration on slippery surfaces. Unlike some competitors that offer AWD as a costly optional add-on, Subaru integrates this technology as a core component of safety and performance, ensuring that every driver benefits from its capabilities from the moment they drive off the lot.
How the AWD Operates
Intelligent control is the cornerstone of the Forester's AWD system. A center differential actively manages the power distribution between the front and rear axles, dynamically adjusting based on driving conditions. Under normal circumstances, the system can send the majority of power to the front wheels for efficiency. However, when the system detects a loss of traction, such as when cornering aggressively or driving on loose gravel, it instantly redirects torque to the rear wheels to maintain stability. This seamless transition happens in milliseconds, without any input or intervention required from the driver, providing a driving experience that feels confident and planted in virtually any scenario.
Safety and Performance Implications
The integration of standard AWD is a cornerstone of the Subaru Forester's safety profile. Enhanced traction directly correlates with improved handling and significantly reduced stopping distances on wet, icy, or snowy roads. This capability allows the vehicle to navigate challenging weather with greater composure, helping to prevent accidents before they occur. Furthermore, the inherent stability provided by the system contributes to a more secure and reassuring drive for both the driver and passengers, making the Forester a reliable companion in unpredictable weather or on poorly maintained roads.
Beyond safety, the AWD system positively influences the vehicle's utility and versatility. The Forester is celebrated for its ruggedness and outdoor capability, and the standard AWD is a primary reason for this reputation. Whether the driver is tackling a muddy forest trail, navigating a steep, snowy mountain pass, or simply dealing to the daily commute, the system ensures that the vehicle remains composed and capable. This reliability transforms the Forester from a simple commuter car into a genuine adventure vehicle, capable of accessing destinations that would be difficult or impossible for a two-wheel-drive counterpart.
The Exception: The Forester Sport Hybrid
While the vast majority of the Forester lineup relies on a traditional internal combustion engine paired with symmetrical AWD, there is one notable exception to this rule. The Forester Sport Hybrid utilizes a series hybrid powertrain where the gasoline engine primarily acts as a generator to power electric motors. In this specific configuration, the vehicle is configured with front-wheel drive only, rather than the standard all wheel drive setup. This design choice is driven by the packaging constraints of the hybrid system and the engineering priorities of maximizing electric efficiency for urban driving. Therefore, for buyers specifically seeking the ultimate in capability and all-weather confidence, the gasoline-powered variants remain the definitive choice within the Forester range.
