The Best Subaru for Road Trips: Expert Guide to Finding Your Perfect Adventure Vehicle

The Best Subaru for Road Trips: Expert Guide to Finding Your Perfect Adventure Vehicle

If you’re planning a road trip around St. Louis, MO, or venturing beyond to places like Webster Groves, Twin Oaks, or Chesterfield, choosing the right vehicle can make all the difference. Subaru models are renowned for their reliability, comfort, and rugged capabilities, making them ideal for long journeys across diverse terrains. Whether you crave spacious interiors, advanced safety, superior ground clearance, or smooth rides, Subaru has a model tailored to your road trip needs. At Sunset Hills Subaru, located at 10100 Watson Rd, Sunset Hills, MO 63127, we’re here to help you find the perfect Subaru for your next adventure. Feel free to call us at (314) 476-9638 to discuss your options or schedule a test drive.

Table of Contents

• Why Subaru Is the Ideal Brand for Road Trips
  Understand Subaru’s hallmark features such as Symmetrical AWD, reliability, and safety technologies that enhance road trip performance across Missouri’s varied landscapes.
• Top Subaru Models Perfect for Road Trips
  Explore detailed insights on the Outback, Ascent, Crosstrek, and Legacy, highlighting their space, comfort, and off-road readiness for trips from Maryland Heights to Fenton.
• Which Subaru Has the Best Ground Clearance?
  A technical breakdown of Subaru models with the highest clearance, vital for tackling rough terrain and snowy roads near Valley Park or Glendale.
• Best Subaru for Off-Road Adventures
  Identify Subaru vehicles designed for rugged trails and outdoor excursions, including features like X-MODE and all-terrain tires.
• Most Roomy Subaru: Comfort for Passengers and Cargo
  Compare Subaru SUVs based on passenger volume and cargo space, ideal for family trips around Creve Coeur and Ladue.
• Which Subaru Offers the Smoothest Ride?
  Discuss ride quality and suspension features that provide comfort on highways and rural roads near Richmond Heights and Oakland.
• Preparing Your Subaru for a Road Trip
  Essential maintenance tips and packing advice to ensure your Subaru performs flawlessly on long journeys through Sappington or Concord.
• Sunset Hills Subaru Service and Trade-In Resources
  How to keep your vehicle road-trip ready with professional service, parts, and trade-in options available locally.

Why Subaru Is the Ideal Brand for Road Trips

Subaru’s reputation as a road trip companion stems from its unique combination of engineering, safety, and versatility. The cornerstone of Subaru’s capability is its Symmetrical Full-time All-Wheel Drive (AWD), which provides continuous power to all four wheels, enhancing traction on wet, snowy, or uneven roads common in Missouri’s St. Charles or Maplewood areas. Unlike other AWD systems that activate only when slippage is detected, Subaru’s full-time system maintains balance and control, reducing the risk of loss of control during sudden maneuvers on highways or rural routes.

Complementing the AWD is Subaru’s renowned Boxer engine design, which features horizontally opposed pistons that lower the vehicle’s center of gravity. This configuration not only improves stability but also contributes to a smoother ride, essential for long hours on the road. For safety-conscious travelers in Lakeshire or Crestwood, Subaru equips nearly all models with EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, which includes adaptive cruise control, pre-collision braking, and lane-keeping assist to reduce fatigue and enhance driver confidence.

Durability is another core strength of Subaru, with many models lasting beyond 200,000 miles when properly maintained. This longevity is crucial for adventurers in Fenton or Valley Park who seek vehicles that can handle frequent use and varied driving conditions without frequent repairs. Additionally, Subaru’s rugged construction and advanced safety technology ensure that your vehicle remains dependable and secure throughout your journey.

Top Subaru Models Perfect for Road Trips

When selecting the best Subaru for a road trip, factors such as passenger comfort, cargo capacity, fuel efficiency, and off-road capability come into play. Here’s a detailed look at the top models available now at Sunset Hills Subaru that cater to these needs:

Subaru Outback: The Versatile Road Tripper

The 2025 Subaru Outback stands out as a premier choice for road trips around Chesterfield or Glendale due to its spacious interior and substantial cargo volume of up to 75.7 cubic feet with rear seats folded. The Outback features a ground clearance of 9.5 inches in its Wilderness trim, allowing it to confidently navigate gravel roads or snowy routes outside St. Louis. With its fuel-efficient engine options and advanced driver assistance systems, it offers a smooth and safe ride for extended trips.

You can explore the full range of the New Subaru Outback Inventory to find the perfect trim that fits your adventure style.

Subaru Ascent: The Family-Friendly SUV

For those traveling with larger groups or family in Webster Groves or Maryland Heights, the 2024 Subaru Ascent provides seating for up to eight passengers and up to 75.6 cubic feet of cargo space. Its 8.7 inches of ground clearance and towing capacity up to 5,000 pounds make it excellent for hauling trailers or boats. The Ascent’s advanced safety features and spacious cabin ensure comfort and security on long drives.

Browse our New Subaru Ascent Inventory for options suited to your family’s needs.

Subaru Crosstrek: Compact and Capable

Ideal for adventurers in Ladue or Sappington seeking a smaller yet capable SUV, the 2024 Subaru Crosstrek offers 8.7 inches of ground clearance and standard Symmetrical AWD. Its compact size is perfect for navigating narrow trails or urban streets while still providing up to 55.3 cubic feet of cargo space. With available X-MODE for enhanced traction, the Crosstrek balances off-road capability with everyday practicality.

Check out the New Subaru Crosstrek Inventory for diverse trims and features.

Subaru Legacy: Smooth and Efficient Sedan

For drivers who prioritize a smooth ride and fuel efficiency on routes around Concord or Oakland, the Subaru Legacy offers a sedan experience with up to 35 MPG highway and a refined, quiet interior. While it lacks the off-road focus of SUVs, the Legacy’s advanced safety suite and comfortable ride make it an excellent choice for road trips on paved highways.

Explore our New Subaru Legacy Inventory to find your ideal sedan.

Which Subaru Has the Best Ground Clearance?

Ground clearance is a vital consideration for road trips that include unpaved or challenging terrain, such as the rural areas near Twin Oaks or Valley Park. The 2023 Subaru Outback Wilderness leads the pack with an impressive 9.5 inches of clearance, ideal for tackling rocky trails, deep snow, or flooded paths. Close behind is the Forester Wilderness with 9.2 inches, providing excellent off-road readiness in a compact SUV form.

Models like the Crosstrek and Ascent maintain a respectable 8.7 inches of clearance, which balances daily drivability with moderate off-road capability. For urban drivers in Sunset Hills who occasionally venture onto less maintained roads, these figures ensure confidence and safety.

If you want to compare ground clearance specs or see how these models fit your preference, visit our New Subaru Inventory or contact us to schedule a consultation.

Best Subaru for Off-Road Adventures

For those planning to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations near Creve Coeur or Lakeshire, Subaru’s off-road-focused models deliver capability and ruggedness. The Outback Wilderness features all-terrain Yokohama Geolandar tires, skid plates, and a specialized X-MODE that optimizes traction in mud, snow, and sand. Its reinforced suspension and roof rails add practicality for hauling gear.

The Forester Wilderness offers similar off-road traits in a smaller package, making it suitable for tighter trails while maintaining 9.2 inches of ground clearance and enhanced durability. The Crosstrek, with its dual-function X-MODE on Sport trims, is perfect for light off-roading and trail navigation.

For more extreme adventures, the Subaru WRX provides a sporty AWD experience with turbocharged power and responsive handling, though it is less traditional as an off-road vehicle.

We invite you to explore these models at Sunset Hills Subaru and discuss your off-road plans with our experts.

Most Roomy Subaru: Comfort for Passengers and Cargo

Space is a priority when traveling with family or friends around communities like Richmond Heights or Chesterfield. The Subaru Ascent is the most spacious in the lineup, offering three rows, seating for eight, and a total passenger volume of 153.2 cubic feet. Its cargo space of up to 75.6 cubic feet ensures that luggage, camping gear, or sports equipment fit comfortably.

The Outback and Forester also provide generous passenger and cargo space, with the Outback offering 109 cubic feet of passenger room and 75.6 cubic feet of cargo volume. The Forester follows closely with 111.6 cubic feet of passenger space and 74.2 cubic feet of cargo capacity, balancing roominess with a compact footprint.

For electric vehicle enthusiasts in St. Charles or Maplewood, the Subaru Solterra offers 63.5 cubic feet of cargo space and 95.7 cubic feet of passenger volume, blending eco-conscious driving with practical room.

Which Subaru Offers the Smoothest Ride?

The Subaru Legacy is widely acknowledged for delivering the smoothest ride among Subaru models, thanks to its longer wheelbase and lower center of gravity. This sedan excels on paved roads around Glendale and Concord, absorbing bumps and minimizing road noise. Its quiet cabin enhances comfort during lengthy highway stretches.

The Outback also provides a notably smooth ride, especially on rougher roads or light trails, with its suspension tuned for a balance of comfort and capability. While Forester, Crosstrek, and Ascent offer competent ride quality, the Legacy remains the top choice for those prioritizing ride refinement.

Preparing Your Subaru for a Road Trip

Proper preparation ensures your Subaru remains reliable throughout your journey, whether you’re driving through Sappington’s countryside or the urban streets of Richmond Heights. Before you hit the road:

• Inspect and Maintain Critical Fluids: Check oil, coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and transmission fluid. Replace or top up as necessary to prevent breakdowns.
• Check Tires: Ensure tires have proper tread depth and pressure. The “penny test” is a simple method to assess tread condition.
• Brake Inspection: Worn brake pads can compromise safety; replace if you encounter squealing noises or reduced responsiveness.
• Air Conditioning System: Verify your A/C system is functioning well, especially for summer trips through Missouri.
• Pack Smart: Use storage bins and roof cargo carriers to organize gear efficiently. Consider all-weather floor mats and a trailer hitch if towing is planned.

For expert maintenance, schedule an appointment with our Service Department via Schedule Service and Diagnostics. Our factory-trained technicians at Sunset Hills Subaru ensure your vehicle is ready for any road ahead.

Sunset Hills Subaru Service and Trade-In Resources

Keeping your Subaru in peak condition is simple with Sunset Hills Subaru’s comprehensive service offerings. Whether you need routine oil changes, brake replacements, or specialized repairs, trust our service experts. Access genuine parts tailored for your Subaru through Find Subaru Parts to maintain performance and reliability.

Thinking about upgrading? Discover your current vehicle’s trade-in value with our easy tool: Get your value trade. Browse our extensive selections including both New Subaru Inventory and Used Vehicle Inventory to find your next Subaru road trip companion.

Explore current savings on both vehicles and services through our Current New Car Specials and Current Service and Parts Specials pages to maximize your investment.

Experience Your Next Road Trip with Confidence

Choosing the right Subaru model tailored for your road trip needs from communities like Fenton, Ladue, or Maplewood ensures a safe, comfortable, and memorable journey. With outstanding ground clearance, roomy interiors, and state-of-the-art safety features, Subaru vehicles meet and exceed the demands of Missouri’s diverse driving conditions. Visit us at Sunset Hills Subaru or call (314) 476-9638 to explore, test drive, and find your perfect road trip partner today.

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© 2025 Sunset Hills Subaru

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