All American Subaru of Old Bridge

Blog / Subaru Vehicle Features

“Best in Snow” Subaru Symmetrical AWD

Lineup of Subaru all-wheel drive vehicles displayed together in an outdoor setting

When winter weather hits Old Bridge, NJ, and the surrounding New Jersey roads, drivers need a vehicle they can trust. Snow, ice, freezing rain, and slush can quickly turn an ordinary commute into a stressful experience. That is where Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive stands out. Known for its confidence-inspiring traction and stability, Subaru AWD has earned a reputation as one of the best all-wheel drive systems for snow and winter driving.

At All American Subaru in Old Bridge, NJ, we help drivers experience why Subaru vehicles are consistently trusted in harsh weather conditions.

What Is Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive?

Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive is a full-time AWD system that continuously sends power to all four wheels. Unlike part-time or on-demand systems that activate only after wheel slip occurs, Subaru AWD is always working to maintain traction.

The system is designed around Subaru’s horizontally opposed Boxer engine, which creates a low center of gravity and balanced weight distribution. This symmetrical layout improves vehicle stability, handling, and control in a wide range of road conditions.

Why Subaru AWD Performs Better in Snow

Winter traction is about more than just getting moving. It is about maintaining control when accelerating, turning, and braking on slippery surfaces. Subaru Symmetrical AWD constantly monitors traction and adjusts power delivery to the wheels with the most grip.

Key winter driving benefits include:

  • Improved traction on snow and ice
  • Enhanced stability when cornering on slick roads
  • Better control when starting from a stop on inclines
  • Reduced wheel spin in deep snow or slush

Because power is continuously distributed to all four wheels, Subaru vehicles are designed to provide predictable and confident handling even when road conditions change unexpectedly.

Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system shown through chassis and drivetrain layout

Confidence for New Jersey Winter Roads

New Jersey winters can bring a mix of snowstorms, icy mornings, and wet winter weather. Subaru AWD is designed to handle all of it. Whether you are driving local roads in Old Bridge, commuting on highways, or navigating unplowed side streets, Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive helps keep your vehicle planted and controlled.

Many Subaru models also include available features like X-MODE, which further enhances traction by optimizing throttle response and torque distribution in snow and other low-traction conditions.

Standard AWD Across Most Subaru Models

One of the biggest advantages of Subaru vehicles is that Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive comes standard on most models. Drivers do not need to upgrade to a higher trim level to gain winter capability. Popular Subaru models known for their snow performance include:

  • Subaru Outback
  • Subaru Forester
  • Subaru Crosstrek
  • Subaru Ascent
  • Subaru Legacy

This commitment to all-weather capability makes Subaru a smart choice for drivers who prioritize safety, traction, and year-round confidence.

Experience Subaru AWD at All American Subaru in Old Bridge, NJ

If you are looking for a vehicle that delivers exceptional winter performance, Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive sets the standard. From balanced handling to reliable snow traction, Subaru AWD is engineered to help you drive with confidence when it matters most.

Visit All American Subaru in Old Bridge, NJ, to explore our Subaru lineup and experience the difference of Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive for yourself. Schedule a test drive today and see why Subaru continues to be one of the most trusted brands for snow and winter driving.

Posted in:

Recommended Posts

2027 Subaru Forester Changes

2026 vs 2027 Subaru Forester: What's Changed?

The Subaru Forester continues to be a popular compact SUV thanks to its standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, impressive reliability, advanced safety technology, and everyday versatility. For 2027, Subaru is making a few updates to the Forester lineup rather than introducing a complete redesign. The biggest changes include the removal of the gas-powered Sport and Touring trims, additional standard features on select models, and the introduction of the 2027 Subaru Forester Wilderness Hybrid. If you're comparing the 2026 vs. 2027 Subaru Forester near Old Bridge, NJ, here's what you need to know about the differences between the two model years. 2026 vs 2027 Subaru Forester Comparison Feature 2026 Subaru Forester 2027 Subaru Forester Exterior Design Sixth-generation design Same overall design Gas Engine 2.5L BOXER, 180 hp 2.5L BOXER, 180 hp Hybrid Engine 194 combined hp 194 combined hp All-Wheel Drive Standard Standard Gas-Powered Trims Base, Premium, Sport, Wilderness, Limited, Touring Base, Premium, Wilderness, Limited Hybrid Trims Premium, Sport, Limited, Touring Premium, Sport, Wilderness, Limited, Touring Wilderness Hybrid Not available New for 2027 Limited & Wilderness Features Standard and optional equipment Additional standard features EyeSight Driver Assist Standard Standard Discontinued Gas Trims Sport, Sport Onyx Edition, Touring Not available for 2027 Overall, the 2027 Forester maintains the same engineering, design, and capability as the 2026 model while simplifying the gas-powered lineup and expanding its hybrid options. What's New for the 2027 Subaru Forester? The 2027 Forester carries over much of what drivers already love about the 2026 model. Subaru's biggest updates focus on trim availability, standard equipment, and hybrid capability. The most notable changes include: The first-ever Subaru Forester Wilderness Hybrid Discontinuation of the gas-powered Sport, Sport Onyx Edition, and Touring trims Additional standard features on the Limited and Wilderness trims Continued availability of the Forester Sport Hybrid and Touring Hybrid The same standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and EyeSight Driver Assist Technology Rather than changing the Forester's overall design, Subaru is refining the lineup to offer more features and additional hybrid choices. Subaru Forester Inventory Introducing the 2027 Subaru Forester Wilderness Hybrid The biggest addition for 2027 is the all-new Subaru Forester Wilderness Hybrid, combining Subaru's off-road-focused Wilderness engineering with hybrid efficiency for the first time. The Forester Wilderness Hybrid delivers 194 combined horsepower, compared to 180 horsepower in the gas-powered Wilderness model. It also offers an estimated 30 MPG combined and up to 481 miles of driving range, making it the most fuel-efficient Wilderness model Subaru has introduced. Despite the improved efficiency, the Wilderness Hybrid retains the capability drivers expect from a Subaru Wilderness SUV. Key features include: Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive 9.3 inches of ground clearance Dual-Function X-MODE with Snow/Dirt and Deep Snow/Mud settings Yokohama GEOLANDAR all-terrain tires Upgraded suspension Underbody protection StarTex water-repellent upholstery 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster 11.6-inch Subaru Multimedia touchscreen For drivers who want better fuel economy without giving up ground clearance and off-road capability, the 2027 Forester Wilderness Hybrid is the most significant improvement to the lineup. Subaru Discontinues the Gas-Powered Sport and Touring Trims Another important change for 2027 is the removal of the gas-powered Forester Sport and Touring trims, along with the Sport Onyx Edition. The 2026 Forester offered these configurations with the traditional 2.5-liter SUBARU BOXER engine. For 2027, shoppers interested in Sport or Touring features will need to explore the hybrid versions. The good news is that Sport Hybrid and Touring Hybrid remain available for 2027. The Forester Sport Hybrid continues to offer distinctive styling and hybrid efficiency, while the Touring Hybrid provides premium comfort and technology features. Drivers who prefer a traditional gas-powered Sport or Touring should consider the 2026 Forester while those models are available. More Standard Features on the 2027 Forester Limited The 2027 Forester Limited receives additional standard equipment, making it an appealing choice for shoppers who want premium features without moving into a hybrid. The Limited continues to offer leather-trimmed upholstery, an 11.6-inch touchscreen, and Subaru's advanced safety technology. For 2027, additional comfort and convenience features become standard, including equipment that previously required an optional package. These updates give the Limited a more premium feel while maintaining the familiar Forester design and performance. 2027 Forester Wilderness Gets Additional Technology The gas-powered Forester Wilderness returns for 2027 with its familiar rugged capability. It continues to feature 9.3 inches of ground clearance, standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, all-terrain tires, and enhanced X-MODE. The 2027 Wilderness also gains additional standard technology and convenience features, including a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. This makes the Wilderness more comfortable for everyday driving while preserving the off-road features that distinguish it from other Forester trims. Does the 2027 Subaru Forester Have a Different Engine? No major engine changes have been introduced for the 2027 Forester. Gas-powered models continue to use the 2.5-liter SUBARU BOXER four-cylinder engine producing 180 horsepower. Hybrid models continue to offer 194 combined horsepower through Subaru's hybrid powertrain. Both model years feature standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, helping deliver traction and confidence in rain, snow, and changing road conditions. The biggest powertrain change for 2027 isn't a new engine. It's the availability of hybrid technology in the Wilderness trim for the first time. Does the 2027 Subaru Forester Look Different? The 2027 Forester maintains the same overall exterior design as the 2026 model. Both model years share the sixth-generation Forester's modern styling, spacious cabin, generous cargo area, and excellent outward visibility. Trim-specific styling details, wheels, and exterior accents may differ, but there isn't a major redesign separating the two model years. For shoppers who already like the look and feel of the 2026 Forester, the 2027 model will feel familiar. Subaru Forester Safety and Reliability Remain Strong Both the 2026 and 2027 Forester come standard with EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, which includes advanced safety features designed to help drivers stay aware of their surroundings. Depending on the trim, available features include Pre-Collision Braking, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Centering, Blind-Spot Detection, and Reverse Automatic Braking. The Forester also continues to benefit from Subaru's strong reliability reputation. Consumer Reports named the Subaru Forester a 2026 Top Pick, recognizing its combination of reliability, safety, road-test performance, and owner satisfaction. With much of the Forester's engineering carrying over into 2027, shoppers can expect a similar driving experience from both model years, although long-term reliability data for the newer model isn't yet available. Should You Buy a 2026 or 2027 Subaru Forester? Both model years offer excellent capability, advanced safety features, and the everyday versatility Subaru drivers expect. The 2026 Subaru Forester is worth considering if you prefer the gas-powered Sport or Touring trims, since those configurations have been discontinued for 2027. The 2027 Subaru Forester is a great choice if you're interested in the latest standard features or want the all-new Wilderness Hybrid. For shoppers comparing the standard gas-powered Forester models, the differences are relatively small. The biggest reason to choose the 2027 model is the updated trim lineup and expanded hybrid options. Compare the 2026 and 2027 Subaru Forester in Old Bridge, NJ If you're deciding between the 2026 and 2027 Subaru Forester, visit All American Subaru in Old Bridge, NJ to explore your options. Our team can help you compare available Forester trims, explore gas-powered and hybrid models, and find the right combination of features, performance, and capability for your lifestyle. Whether you're interested in the 2026 Forester Sport, the updated 2027 Forester Limited, or the all-new Forester Wilderness Hybrid, All American Subaru is here to help you find your next SUV. Explore our new Subaru Forester inventory and discover why the Forester remains a great choice for drivers throughout Old Bridge, Freehold, Marlboro, Manalapan, and surrounding New Jersey communities. Contact All American Subaru

Forester Hybrid vs CR-V Hybrid

Subaru Forester Hybrid vs Honda CR-V Hybrid: Hybrid SUV Comparison

The Subaru Forester Hybrid and Honda CR-V Hybrid give compact SUV shoppers a way to improve fuel efficiency without making the switch to a fully electric vehicle. Both combine gas and electric power, offer spacious two-row interiors, and are designed for practical everyday driving. But there are some important differences between them. The 2026 Subaru Forester Hybrid combines hybrid efficiency with standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, 8.7 inches of ground clearance, impressive driving range, and the capability Subaru drivers expect. It has also earned recognition as a 2026 Consumer Reports Top Pick, making it an especially compelling choice for drivers looking for efficiency without sacrificing versatility. For drivers near Old Bridge, NJ, the Forester Hybrid offers a strong combination of fuel savings, all-weather confidence, comfort, and capability. 2026 Subaru Forester Hybrid vs Honda CR-V Hybrid Comparison Category 2026 Subaru Forester Hybrid 2026 Honda CR-V Hybrid Hybrid Horsepower 194 hp 204 hp Consumer Reports Tested MPG 34 MPG Overall 35 MPG Overall All-Wheel Drive Standard Symmetrical AWD Available Ground Clearance 8.7 Inches Up to 8.2 Inches Driving Range Up to 581 Miles Varies by Configuration Standard Touchscreen 11.6 Inches 9 Inches Traction Technology Standard X-MODE® Available AWD Consumer Reports Recognition 2026 Top Pick Highly Rated Consumer Reports Names the Forester Hybrid a 2026 Top Pick One of the biggest reasons to consider the Forester Hybrid is its performance in independent testing. The Subaru Forester Hybrid is a 2026 Consumer Reports Top Pick, an honor awarded to only 10 vehicles across the entire automotive market. Consumer Reports highlights several Forester Hybrid strengths, including its excellent outward visibility, comfortable ride, roomy rear seat, and impressive fuel economy. Consumer Reports also expects the 2026 Forester Hybrid to be more reliable than the average new vehicle. For shoppers comparing hybrid SUVs for long-term ownership, that combination of efficiency, comfort, capability, and predicted reliability makes the Forester Hybrid stand out. Subaru Forester Hybrid Inventory Hybrid Efficiency Without Giving Up Subaru Capability Choosing a hybrid used to mean prioritizing fuel economy above almost everything else. The Forester Hybrid takes a different approach. Its hybrid system combines a 2.5-liter SUBARU BOXER® engine with electric power to produce a combined 194 horsepower while improving fuel economy compared with the conventional Forester. Subaru estimates up to 35 MPG, and the Forester Hybrid can travel up to 581 miles on a single tank of gas. Consumer Reports recorded 34 MPG overall during its independent testing. The Honda CR-V Hybrid recorded 35 MPG overall in the same Consumer Reports testing, making the real-world difference between these two SUVs remarkably small. For drivers who want better fuel economy without sacrificing AWD capability, the Forester Hybrid provides an impressive balance. Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive One of the biggest differences between these hybrid SUVs is all-wheel drive. Every 2026 Subaru Forester Hybrid comes standard with Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. AWD is available on the Honda CR-V Hybrid, but it isn’t standard across the hybrid lineup. Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive continuously evaluates acceleration, braking, and cornering to help provide traction across changing conditions. That can provide additional confidence when driving through: Snow Heavy rain Slippery pavement Gravel roads Uneven terrain Changing weather conditions For New Jersey drivers, AWD isn’t something that only matters during an occasional adventure. It can provide added confidence throughout the year. 8.7 Inches of Ground Clearance Adds More Capability The Forester Hybrid also maintains the generous ground clearance that has helped make the Forester popular with active drivers. Every 2026 Forester Hybrid provides 8.7 inches of ground clearance. That gives drivers additional room when navigating deep snow, uneven roads, trails, campsites, and other challenging surfaces. Combined with standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, the Forester Hybrid feels less like a traditional efficiency-focused hybrid and more like a capable Subaru that happens to use less fuel. X-MODE® Adds Confidence Beyond Pavement The Forester Hybrid also features X-MODE®, which works with the Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system to optimize traction when conditions become challenging. X-MODE can assist when driving over slippery or loose surfaces, while Hill Descent Control can help maintain control when traveling down steep grades. This is one of the areas where Subaru’s approach to hybrid technology becomes especially clear. The goal isn’t simply to maximize MPG. The Forester Hybrid is designed to deliver efficiency while retaining the all-weather and all-terrain versatility drivers expect from a Forester. Excellent Visibility and a Comfortable Interior Capability isn’t the only Forester Hybrid strength highlighted by Consumer Reports. The Forester has long been known for excellent visibility, and that continues with the hybrid. Its upright design, large windows, and thoughtfully designed pillars help provide a clear view of the road and surrounding traffic. Consumer Reports also praises the Forester Hybrid for its roomy rear seat and comfortable ride. Those qualities can make a noticeable difference during everyday driving, especially for families who regularly have passengers in the second row. Standard 11.6-Inch Touchscreen Technology is another area where the Forester Hybrid delivers strong value. Every 2026 Forester Hybrid comes standard with an 11.6-inch SUBARU STARLINK® Multimedia touchscreen. The system provides convenient access to entertainment, smartphone connectivity, navigation functions, and vehicle settings. By comparison, the 2026 CR-V Hybrid comes standard with a smaller 9-inch touchscreen. For shoppers who value a large, easy-to-use central display, Subaru includes it without requiring a move to a higher trim level. EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology Comes Standard Every Forester Hybrid also includes EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology. EyeSight monitors traffic movement and helps provide additional awareness behind the wheel with advanced driver-assistance features designed to support the driver during everyday travel. Combined with Subaru’s standard AWD system and excellent outward visibility, these technologies help create a vehicle designed around driver confidence. Forester Hybrid Offers Strong Value With AWD Price becomes especially important when comparing these SUVs with equivalent drivetrains. The 2026 Subaru Forester Hybrid starts at $34,730 with standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. According to Subaru’s comparison using manufacturer pricing, a 2026 Honda CR-V Hybrid equipped with AWD starts at $37,130. That means shoppers can get standard AWD capability, an 11.6-inch touchscreen, hybrid efficiency, and Subaru’s traction technology in the Forester Hybrid at a competitive starting price. Why Choose the Subaru Forester Hybrid Over the Honda CR-V Hybrid? The Honda CR-V Hybrid is an efficient and practical compact SUV, but the 2026 Subaru Forester Hybrid offers a unique combination of hybrid efficiency and standard capability. The Forester Hybrid stands out with: 2026 Consumer Reports Top Pick recognition Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive 8.7 inches of ground clearance Up to 581 miles of driving range 34 MPG overall in Consumer Reports testing Standard X-MODE® Standard 11.6-inch touchscreen Excellent outward visibility Roomy and comfortable interior Above-average predicted reliability Competitive starting price with AWD For drivers who want to save fuel without giving up the capability that makes an SUV useful throughout the year, the Forester Hybrid delivers an impressive balance. Test Drive a Subaru Forester Hybrid in Old Bridge, NJ If you’re comparing the Subaru Forester Hybrid vs. the Honda CR-V Hybrid, visit All American Subaru in Old Bridge, NJ, to experience the 2026 Forester Hybrid for yourself. Explore its hybrid performance, spacious interior, standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, advanced technology, and impressive efficiency to see how the Forester Hybrid combines fuel savings with the capability to take on New Jersey roads throughout every season. Contact All American Subaru

ascent-vs-pilot

Subaru Ascent vs Honda Pilot: Space, Technology, and Capability Compared

If you’re searching for a three-row SUV near Old Bridge, NJ, the Subaru Ascent and Honda Pilot are two of the most popular family vehicles on the market. Both offer spacious interiors, advanced technology, and seating for large families, but when you compare capability, safety, reliability, and overall value, the Subaru Ascent stands out as the better choice. For families who want confidence in every season and long-term peace of mind, the Ascent delivers advantages that go beyond cargo space and touchscreen size. Subaru Ascent vs Honda Pilot: Key Differences Category Subaru Ascent Honda Pilot Standard AWD Yes, Every Trim No, Optional Safety Recognition IIHS Top Safety Pick+ Strong Safety Ratings Ground Clearance 8.7 Inches 7.0 Inches Seating Capacity Up to 8 Up to 8 Reliability Above Average Average Capability Adventure Ready Family Focused Long-Term Value Strong Moderate Standard All-Wheel Drive Sets the Ascent Apart One of the biggest advantages of the Subaru Ascent is that every trim comes equipped with Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. That means every Ascent offers: Better traction in rain and snow Improved stability on slippery roads Greater confidence during winter driving Enhanced control during family road trips The Honda Pilot offers all-wheel drive, but it is not standard across the lineup. For New Jersey families who experience changing weather throughout the year, having AWD included on every Ascent is a major advantage. Capability: Built for More Than the School Drop-Off Line While both SUVs are family-focused, the Subaru Ascent offers more capability when conditions become challenging. The Ascent includes: 8.7 inches of ground clearance X-MODE® traction management Hill Descent Control Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive on every trim The Honda Pilot has become more rugged in recent years, especially with the TrailSport trim, but most Pilot models remain focused primarily on pavement driving. The Ascent gives families the flexibility to handle: Snow-covered roads Campgrounds Gravel roads Weekend adventures All of that capability comes without sacrificing the everyday comfort families expect from a three-row SUV. Safety: Subaru Continues to Lead Safety is often one of the most important factors for growing families. The Subaru Ascent comes standard with EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology, including: Adaptive Cruise Control Automatic Emergency Braking Lane Centering Lane Departure Warning Pre-Collision Throttle Management The Ascent also continues to earn IIHS Top Safety Pick+ recognition, placing it among the safest SUVs in its class. The Honda Pilot offers an impressive suite of safety features, but Subaru’s long-standing commitment to safety remains one of the strongest reasons families choose the Ascent. Reliability and Long-Term Ownership When purchasing a family SUV, reliability matters just as much as features. Subaru consistently ranks among the most trusted automotive brands thanks to its focus on durability and long-term dependability. Benefits of owning a reliable SUV include: Fewer unexpected repairs Lower ownership stress Better resale value More confidence in keeping the vehicle for years The Honda Pilot has a solid reputation, but Subaru’s emphasis on reliability helps give the Ascent an edge for long-term ownership. Technology Designed for Families Modern families expect their SUV to keep everyone connected and entertained. The Subaru Ascent offers: Large touchscreen infotainment system Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ Multiple USB charging ports Available Wi-Fi connectivity Available Harman Kardon® premium audio The Honda Pilot also offers excellent technology features, but Subaru focuses on making those features intuitive and easy to use for everyday family life. Whether you’re commuting, carpooling, or taking a road trip, the Ascent keeps everyone connected. Interior Space and Everyday Comfort Both SUVs provide spacious interiors and seating for up to eight passengers. The Subaru Ascent offers: Comfortable seating across all three rows Available second-row captain’s chairs Flexible cargo configurations Convenient storage throughout the cabin Easy third-row access Families also appreciate the Ascent’s excellent outward visibility, making parking lots, school pickup lines, and highway driving easier and less stressful. The Pilot offers generous interior room as well, but the Ascent’s thoughtful design and visibility make it especially user-friendly. Long-Term Value Favors the Ascent A vehicle’s value goes far beyond its purchase price. The Subaru Ascent delivers value through: Standard AWD on every trim Strong safety ratings Excellent reliability Competitive maintenance costs Strong resale value These advantages continue to pay off long after the vehicle leaves the dealership. Why the Subaru Ascent Is the Better Choice When comparing the Subaru Ascent and Honda Pilot, the Ascent delivers the features and capabilities that many families value most. It offers: Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive Superior all-weather confidence Top-tier safety technology Adventure-ready capability Spacious family-friendly seating Strong long-term ownership value The Honda Pilot remains a capable family SUV, but the Subaru Ascent provides a better balance of safety, capability, reliability, and value. Test Drive the Subaru Ascent in Old Bridge, NJ If you’re looking for a three-row SUV that puts your family’s safety, comfort, and confidence first, the Subaru Ascent deserves a closer look. Visit All American Subaru in Old Bridge, NJ, to explore available Subaru Ascent models and discover why so many families choose Subaru for their next adventure. Contact All American Subaru