The Foundation: Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive

Before we explore individual models, it's important to understand what makes Subaru SUVs so capable in winter conditions. Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system is the foundation of their winter performance, and it works fundamentally differently than systems found in other vehicles.

Traditional AWD systems are often front-wheel drive based, with power sent to the rear wheels only when slippage is detected. By then, you may have already lost traction. Subaru's symmetrical design distributes power evenly to all four wheels at all times, providing balanced handling and consistent grip on slippery surfaces.

The system's symmetrical layout—where the drivetrain components are arranged in a straight line from the engine to the rear axle—creates natural balance. This design lowers the center of gravity and improves stability, especially important when navigating icy curves or snow-covered hills throughout Pennsylvania.

Our customers in Washington, PA and throughout southwestern Pennsylvania consistently tell us that Subaru's AWD system gives them confidence they don't find in other vehicles. Whether it's an unexpected snowstorm on the morning commute or planned trips to the mountains, they know their Subaru will get them there safely.

Subaru Forester: The Versatile Winter Champion

The Subaru Forester has earned its reputation as one of the most reliable SUVs for Pennsylvania winters. This compact SUV delivers the perfect balance of capability, comfort, and practicality that our customers need to handle whatever winter throws at them.

With 8.7 inches of ground clearance, the Forester easily navigates snow-covered roads and unplowed streets. This clearance means you won't get stuck when the plows haven't made it to your neighborhood yet, and you can confidently tackle parking lots with snow buildup.

The Forester's spacious interior provides room for winter gear, groceries, and passengers without feeling cramped. The wide-opening rear hatch makes loading and unloading easy, even when you're bundled up in winter clothing.

Forester Winter Features

Beyond the standard Symmetrical AWD, the Forester comes equipped with X-MODE, which optimizes engine output and transmission performance for slippery conditions. The system includes specific settings for snow and dirt as well as deep snow and mud, giving you enhanced control when traction is limited.

Available heated front seats and a heated steering wheel warm up quickly to take the edge off cold Pennsylvania mornings. Heated side mirrors help clear ice and snow for better visibility, and windshield wiper de-icers prevent your blades from freezing to the glass.

The Forester's excellent visibility—thanks to its upright design and large windows—is especially valuable in winter when you need to see clearly in all directions. This visibility, combined with Subaru's EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, helps you stay aware of your surroundings even in challenging conditions.

Subaru Outback: Rugged Capability Meets Refined Comfort

The Subaru Outback has long been a favorite among Pennsylvania drivers who need a vehicle that can handle both daily commutes and weekend adventures in winter conditions. Its combination of car-like handling and SUV capability makes it incredibly versatile.

With 8.7 inches of ground clearance and standard roof rails, the Outback is ready for whatever winter activities you have planned. Whether you're heading to the slopes with ski equipment or navigating snow-covered back roads, the Outback delivers confidence and control.

The Outback's longer wheelbase provides a smooth, stable ride even on rough winter roads. This stability, combined with Symmetrical AWD and X-MODE with Hill Descent Control, makes the Outback exceptionally capable in challenging conditions.

Outback Winter Advantages

The Outback offers dual-function X-MODE settings that automatically adjust throttle response, AWD system, and stability control for different conditions. Whether you're dealing with light snow or deep powder, the system optimizes performance to maintain traction.

Available features like a heated steering wheel, heated front and rear seats, and heated side mirrors ensure comfort even on the coldest days. The Outback's available remote start lets you warm up your vehicle before you get in, so you step into a comfortable cabin instead of a freezing one.

For Pennsylvania drivers who need extra cargo space for winter gear, the Outback's spacious interior and available power rear gate make loading and unloading easy. The hands-free power gate is especially helpful when your arms are full of equipment or groceries.

Subaru Crosstrek: Nimble Winter Warrior

Don't let its compact size fool you—the Subaru Crosstrek is a formidable winter vehicle. Its combination of impressive ground clearance, standard AWD, and nimble handling makes it perfect for navigating Pennsylvania's snowy streets and tight parking situations.

The Crosstrek offers 8.7 inches of ground clearance, matching larger SUVs in its ability to clear snow and obstacles. This clearance, combined with its compact dimensions, makes the Crosstrek easy to maneuver in crowded winter parking lots while still capable of handling unplowed roads.

Excellent fuel efficiency means you'll make fewer stops at the gas station during cold weather, when fuel economy typically decreases. The Crosstrek delivers practical capability without sacrificing efficiency, making it an ideal daily driver for Pennsylvania winters.

Crosstrek Winter Performance

The Crosstrek's X-MODE system provides enhanced traction control for slippery conditions. The system reduces wheelspin and optimizes power delivery to maintain forward momentum on snow and ice.

Available cold weather features include heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and heated side mirrors. These features warm up quickly to provide comfort on cold Pennsylvania mornings, and the heated mirrors help maintain visibility by clearing frost and ice.

The Crosstrek's reinforced body cladding protects against road debris and salt spray common on winter roads. This protection helps maintain your vehicle's appearance and prevents corrosion from winter road treatments.

Subaru Ascent: Three-Row Winter Confidence

For families who need three-row seating without sacrificing winter capability, the Subaru Ascent delivers. This full-size SUV provides seating for up to eight passengers while offering the same Symmetrical AWD and winter features that make Subaru vehicles so capable in Pennsylvania winters.

The Ascent's 8.7 inches of ground clearance and 5,000-pound towing capacity make it ready for winter activities like towing a trailer to the ski slopes or navigating deep snow. Despite its larger size, the Ascent handles predictably and confidently in slippery conditions.

With the most passenger and cargo space in the Subaru lineup, the Ascent easily accommodates the entire family plus all their winter gear. The second and third rows fold flat to create a massive cargo area when you need to transport larger items.

Ascent Family Winter Features

The Ascent offers X-MODE with Hill Descent Control, providing enhanced capability on steep, slippery roads. The system maintains a steady speed when descending snowy or icy hills, giving you precise control without riding the brakes.

Available heated seats in all three rows mean everyone stays comfortable, not just front-seat passengers. The available heated steering wheel and remote start system let you warm up the entire cabin before your family gets in.

The Ascent's EyeSight Driver Assist Technology provides an extra layer of safety in winter conditions. Features like Pre-Collision Braking and Lane Keep Assist help you maintain control and avoid accidents when visibility is reduced or roads are slippery.

Winter-Ready Technology Across the Lineup

Beyond individual model features, Subaru equips its SUVs with technology specifically designed to enhance winter safety and comfort. These systems work together to provide confidence and peace of mind when Pennsylvania weather turns harsh.

EyeSight Driver Assist Technology

Subaru's EyeSight system uses dual cameras to monitor traffic, optimize cruise control, and warn you if you're drifting from your lane. In winter conditions, Pre-Collision Braking can automatically apply the brakes if it detects an imminent collision—crucial when stopping distances increase on snow and ice.

Lane Keep Assist helps you stay centered in your lane, which can be difficult to see when road markings are covered by snow. Adaptive Cruise Control maintains a safe following distance from the vehicle ahead, automatically adjusting speed based on traffic conditions.

X-MODE and Hill Descent Control

X-MODE optimizes the engine, transmission, and AWD system to provide maximum traction in challenging conditions. When activated, the system reduces wheelspin and delivers power more smoothly to maintain forward momentum on slippery surfaces.

Hill Descent Control maintains a steady, controlled speed when descending steep grades. This feature is invaluable on icy hills where maintaining consistent brake pressure is difficult. The system handles the braking for you, letting you focus on steering.

Cold Weather Comfort Features

Subaru understands that winter capability isn't just about traction—it's also about comfort. That's why their SUVs offer comprehensive cold weather features to make winter driving more pleasant.