Dec 16, 2025

Discovering the Best Subaru Model for You: A Comprehensive Guide from Sunset Hills Subaru

Choosing the right Subaru model can feel overwhelming given the variety of options each with unique strengths, designed to fit different lifestyles and needs. Whether you’re navigating the streets of Richmond Heights, exploring the trails near Chesterfield, or commuting from Webster Groves, Subaru’s lineup provides reliable, safe, and versatile vehicles tailored to your driving demands. At Sunset Hills Subaru, located at 10100 Watson Rd, Sunset Hills, MO 63127, we are here to help you find the perfect Subaru that fits your family, adventure, and practical needs. Feel free to call us at (314) 476-9638 for personalized assistance.

Table of Contents


The Best Subaru Models: Overview and Versatility

Subaru’s reputation for safety, dependability, and all-weather performance is built into every model, thanks to its industry-leading Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) and EyeSight® driver assist technology. The brand’s lineup caters to diverse needs, from compact urban crossovers to spacious family SUVs.

Among the most versatile and beloved models are the Subaru Forester, Outback, and Crosstrek. These vehicles excel in safety, comfort, and utility, making them ideal for a variety of lifestyles in Missouri’s suburbs such as Valley Park, Ladue, and Creve Coeur. The Forester offers a traditional SUV experience with excellent visibility and interior space, perfect for families and city driving. The Outback, blending the utility of a wagon with SUV capability, suits adventurers who appreciate off-road prowess and long-distance comfort. The Crosstrek stands out with its compact size, efficient fuel economy, and rugged style, making it a top choice for active drivers balancing urban life and weekend excursions.

Families needing more passenger capacity will appreciate the Subaru Ascent, a three-row SUV delivering exceptional safety and cargo flexibility. For driving enthusiasts, Subaru’s WRX and BRZ models provide thrilling performance with turbocharged engines and precise handling.

Each Subaru model is designed with long-term reliability in mind, often exceeding 200,000 miles with proper care. This reliability is supported by standard AWD systems that enhance traction and control, crucial for handling the seasonal weather challenges of the St. Louis area, including rain and snow common in places like Sappington and Glendale.


Comparing the Subaru Outback and Forester: Which Suits You Better?

Choosing between the Subaru Outback and Forester depends largely on your lifestyle and driving preferences. While both models share Subaru’s hallmark Symmetrical AWD and EyeSight® driver assist for safety, they offer distinct experiences.

Subaru Forester is favored for its traditional SUV configuration. It provides a higher seating position, enhanced outward visibility, and a boxier shape that maximizes interior volume. Its maneuverability makes it well-suited for urban areas like Maryland Heights and Twin Oaks, where parking and city driving demand compact agility. Forester’s cargo space and ceiling height provide practicality for family outings, school runs, and grocery trips. It typically offers standard tech features earlier in trim levels, such as wireless charging and dual 7-inch touchscreens, simplifying connectivity for busy families.

Subaru Outback, on the other hand, presents a sleeker wagon-like design with more ground clearance—up to 9.5 inches—making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts who frequent the Ozarks or enjoy weekend escapes near St. Charles. The Outback offers more powerful engine options, including an available turbocharged 2.4-liter Boxer engine, providing superior towing capacity (up to 3,500 lbs) for hauling bikes, boats, or campers. Its higher trims feature luxury touches such as Nappa leather seats and advanced audio systems, appealing to those valuing comfort and refinement on long drives.

Both models offer the rugged Wilderness trims that elevate off-road capability with lifted suspensions, all-terrain tires, and enhanced underbody protection, giving drivers confidence on Missouri’s varied terrain. Fuel efficiency between the two is comparable, with the Forester having a slight edge due to its smaller size and lighter weight.

Ultimately, the Forester is a practical, family-friendly SUV, while the Outback blends adventure-ready capability with comfortable sophistication. Visit our New Subaru Forester Inventory and New Subaru Outback Inventory to explore both options firsthand.


What is the Most Loved Subaru Model?

Customer preference and sales data consistently highlight three Subaru models as the most loved: the Crosstrek, Forester, and Outback. Each has garnered acclaim for blending practicality with Subaru’s core strengths.

  • Subaru Crosstrek leads in popularity due to its blend of fuel efficiency, rugged styling, and compact footprint, making it ideal for Missouri’s urban neighborhoods such as Lakeshire and Maplewood. Standard AWD and advanced safety features ensure peace of mind in all seasons. Its comfortable interior and modern infotainment keep drivers connected on daily commutes and weekend adventures.


  • Subaru Forester is praised for its spacious cabin, excellent visibility, and user-friendly technology. Its reputation for reliability and practicality makes it a top pick for families in areas like Richmond Heights and Glendale who need versatile transportation.


  • Subaru Outback appeals to those who require a larger cargo area and a comfortable, smooth ride for longer journeys. Its award-winning safety features and rugged Wilderness edition provide confidence for outdoor excursions near Webster Groves and Fenton.


These models consistently rank high in consumer satisfaction surveys and have achieved multiple safety awards, including the IIHS Top Safety Pick designation. Their combination of reliability, safety, and versatility makes them favorites across age groups and regions.

Explore our New Subaru Inventory or Used Vehicle Inventory to find the most loved Subaru models available now.


Which Subaru Model Holds Its Value the Best?

When considering long-term value, Subaru models are well-known for strong resale performance, making them smart investments for Missouri drivers from Crestwood to Concord.

According to recent data, the Subaru BRZ holds the highest resale value among Subaru models, retaining approximately 69.7% of its original value after five years. This sports coupe combines fun driving dynamics with enduring appeal. Following closely is the Subaru Crosstrek, which maintains 66.4% of its value due to its popularity, reliability, and fuel efficiency. The Subaru Impreza (wagon) also ranks high, with a 66.1% value retention, offering practical utility in a compact package.

Other models like the Forester, Legacy, and Outback also demonstrate solid resale performance, buoyed by Subaru’s excellent brand reputation and sturdy build quality. This strong value retention reflects the longevity and desirability of Subaru vehicles in the competitive St. Louis market.

To maximize your Subaru’s resale potential, regular maintenance is key. Schedule routine care with our expert technicians by visiting our Schedule Service and Diagnostics page. When considering a trade-in, use our convenient tool to Get your value trade and explore your options.


Subaru’s Best-Selling Models and What Makes Them Stand Out

In the 2024 calendar year, Subaru of America reported significant sales growth, with the Crosstrek, Forester, and Outback leading the charge. The Crosstrek achieved a record 181,811 sales, surpassing its rivals thanks to its blend of efficiency, off-road capability, and affordability. The Forester followed closely with 175,521 units sold, praised for its spacious interior and safety features. The Outback rounded out the trio with 168,771 sales, favored by families and outdoor enthusiasts.

This strong lineup reflects Subaru’s focus on creating vehicles that resonate with a broad audience, from young professionals in Ladue to active families in St. Charles. The increasing acceptance of electric vehicles also shines a spotlight on the Subaru Solterra, which posted a 40% sales increase in 2024, signaling growing interest in eco-conscious driving.

For those interested in performance, the WRX and BRZ remain niche favorites, though their sales have declined slightly, reflecting their specialized appeal.

Discover the latest best-selling models at Sunset Hills Subaru by exploring our Current New Car Specials and browse the New Subaru Crosstrek Inventory, New Subaru Forester Inventory, and New Subaru Outback Inventory.


Which Subaru Will Last the Longest?

Subaru’s engineering heritage, particularly the horizontally opposed Boxer engine combined with the Symmetrical AWD system, contributes to its vehicles’ renowned longevity. Studies indicate that over 96% of Subarus sold in the past decade remain on the road today, a testament to their durability and Subaru’s commitment to quality.

Among models, the Outback and Forester stand out as leaders in longevity. The Outback features robust mechanicals designed to endure high mileage, with many drivers reporting well beyond 250,000 miles, thanks to regular maintenance and corrosion-resistant body panels. The Forester’s simple design, elevated ground clearance, and rust prevention techniques also allow it to thrive over long ownership periods, especially in climates with varied weather like Sunset Hills and nearby communities.

Owners in Crestwood and Valley Park praise these models for minimal maintenance requirements and the ability to handle rough roads and snowy conditions comfortably. To keep your Subaru running at peak performance, schedule regular maintenance and find genuine parts through our Find Subaru Parts department.


Best Subaru Models for Seniors: Comfort, Safety, and Accessibility

For senior drivers in Sunset Hills and surrounding neighborhoods like Webster Groves and Fenton, Subaru offers models that emphasize ease of use, safety, and comfort. The Forester is often recommended for its elevated seating position, wide door openings, and simple control layout, making entry and exit effortless. It also features excellent outward visibility and standard driver aids like EyeSight® technology, providing confidence on the road.

The Outback’s wagon-like design with SUV clearance makes it a practical choice for seniors who appreciate easy loading and a comfortable ride. Its lower tailgate height and spacious cabin contribute to convenience, especially for those with mobility considerations.

The Crosstrek, compact yet rugged, balances agility with all-weather capability, perfect for active seniors who enjoy outdoor activities but prefer a smaller vehicle footprint.

For those preferring a traditional sedan, the Legacy provides a quiet, smooth ride with advanced safety features and ample cabin space.

Explore our dedicated inventories for seniors, including the Forester, Outback, Crosstrek, and Legacy to find the model that suits your lifestyle best.


What’s the Best Year to Buy a Subaru?

Selecting the ideal used Subaru model involves balancing reliability, updated features, and budget. Experts recommend considering models from the mid-2010s onward, as many earlier issues, such as head gasket failures and oil consumption, have been resolved.

Top picks for dependable used purchases include:

  • 2014+ Subaru Outback: Known for its versatility and updated safety tech, particularly models from 2016-2017 and 2022-2025.
  • 2016+ Subaru Forester: The redesign in 2019 improved platform rigidity and technology, making models from 2018 and newer highly reliable.
  • 2018+ Subaru Crosstrek: Offers modern infotainment, improved fuel efficiency, and excellent AWD capability.
  • 2015+ Subaru Legacy: Balanced sedan choice with strong safety ratings and reliable powertrains.
  • 2019+ Subaru Ascent: Ideal for families needing three rows with advanced features.

When shopping for a used Subaru, always review maintenance history, have a pre-purchase inspection to check the AWD system and CVT transmission, and verify the vehicle’s service records. Sunset Hills Subaru offers a wide range of certified pre-owned vehicles that have undergone rigorous inspections for your peace of mind.

Visit our Used Vehicle Inventory to explore available models and take advantage of our Current New Car Specials and Service and Parts Specials for added value.


Explore Our Inventory and Services at Sunset Hills Subaru

Whether you are searching for a brand-new Subaru or a trusted pre-owned vehicle, Sunset Hills Subaru offers a diverse selection tailored to your preferences and needs. Our extensive New Subaru Inventory includes the latest models like the BRZ, WRX, Solterra, and family favorites such as the Ascent and Legacy.

For those interested in pre-owned options, our Used Vehicle Inventory offers a variety of well-maintained Subaru models at competitive prices.

To keep your Subaru performing optimally, schedule your next maintenance appointment via our Schedule Service and Diagnostics page. Our certified technicians use genuine Subaru parts available through our Find Subaru Parts department to ensure quality repairs and replacements.

When considering an upgrade, use our easy-to-access tool to Get your value trade and understand your current vehicle’s worth.

At Sunset Hills Subaru, we are committed to providing transparent, family-friendly service that matches your lifestyle and keeps you safe on every journey.


Sunset Hills Subaru is your trusted partner for discovering the ideal Subaru model that fits your life in Sunset Hills, MO, and surrounding areas. Whether you’re drawn to the rugged capability of the Outback, the compact agility of the Crosstrek, or the spacious practicality of the Forester, we offer expert guidance and extensive inventory to help you make the best choice. Visit us at 10100 Watson Rd, Sunset Hills, MO 63127 or call (314) 476-9638 to start your Subaru journey today.

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