Aug 28, 2025

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

Embarking on a road trip requires a vehicle that can deliver comfort, reliability, and versatility, especially when exploring regions like Sunset Hills, MO, and nearby areas such as Crestwood, Ladue, and Valley Park. Subaru vehicles are renowned for their ruggedness, advanced all-wheel-drive systems, and spacious interiors, making them an excellent choice for long-distance journeys. Whether you’re planning a solo adventure, a family vacation, or a group excursion, understanding which Subaru model best suits your road trip needs is essential for a memorable and hassle-free experience.

For personalized assistance or to explore our diverse inventory, contact us anytime at (314) 476-9638 or visit us at 10100 Watson Rd, Sunset Hills, MO 63127.

Table of Contents


Choosing the Best Subaru for Road Trips

When selecting a vehicle for road trips, a few critical factors come into play: reliability, adaptability to varying road and weather conditions, passenger and cargo space, fuel efficiency, and comfort. Subaru’s lineup is engineered with these essentials in mind, especially for drivers in Missouri locales such as Richmond Heights, Glendale, and Webster Groves, where unpredictable weather and diverse terrain demand a dependable and versatile vehicle.

One of Subaru’s standout features is its Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, which offers continuous power distribution to all four wheels, ensuring superior traction and control on highways, rural roads, and rugged trails alike. This system is especially beneficial in regions like Twin Oaks and Chesterfield, where road conditions can vary dramatically between seasons. Beyond AWD, Subaru vehicles are equipped with Boxer engines, which have a horizontally opposed design that lowers the center of gravity, providing enhanced stability and smoother rides—critical for long hours on the road.

Another consideration is interior space and comfort. A road trip can last several hours or even days, so having ample legroom, ergonomic seating, and modern amenities like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and advanced driver-assist technologies such as EyeSight® can significantly elevate the travel experience. For example, heated seats and steering wheels are appreciated during cold Missouri mornings, especially in places like Maplewood or Ladue.

Safety also remains paramount. Subaru models consistently earn top marks from the IIHS, with many designated as Top Safety Picks. Features like adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, and pre-collision braking contribute to peace of mind on long-distance drives.

To browse our full range of new vehicles tailored for your next adventure, check out our New Subaru Inventory. For those considering pre-owned options, our Used Vehicle Inventory offers quality-tested models that meet our high standards.


Top Subaru Models for Road Trips

Each Subaru model has unique strengths that cater to different road trip styles. Below, we delve into the most popular options for drivers from St. Charles to Maryland Heights, highlighting why these vehicles shine on the open road.


Subaru Outback: The Versatile Road Trip Companion

The Subaru Outback stands out as the quintessential road trip vehicle, blending the capacity of an SUV with the driving dynamics of a car. With a ground clearance of 8.7 inches on base trims and up to 9.5 inches on the Wilderness version, the Outback confidently handles unpaved roads and snowy conditions alike. This is a significant advantage for travelers exploring the rolling hills around Valley Park or venturing into the rugged landscapes near Fenton.

Key features include:

  • Spacious Cabin and Cargo Space: With up to 75.6 cubic feet of cargo room when rear seats are folded, the Outback can accommodate everything from camping gear to sports equipment.
  • Comfort and Convenience: Higher trims offer Napa leather seats with extended thigh support, heated front and rear seats, and dual-zone climate control, ensuring comfort for all passengers.
  • Powertrain Options: The standard 2.5-liter Boxer engine provides a solid 182 horsepower, while the turbocharged 2.4-liter variant boosts output to 260 horsepower for more spirited driving or towing needs up to 3,500 pounds.
  • Advanced Safety: Standard EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology helps maintain safe distances and lane positioning, essential for fatigue-free, long-distance driving.

For detailed Outback selections, visit our dedicated New Subaru Outback Inventory and discover current offers at Current New Car Specials.


Subaru Ascent: Family-Friendly Features and Space

For larger groups or families embarking on extended trips from neighborhoods like Crestwood or Sappington, the Subaru Ascent is the ideal choice. This three-row SUV seats up to eight and focuses on passenger comfort and connectivity.

Highlights include:

  • Spacious Interior: With ample legroom and headspace across three rows, plus numerous USB ports and charging stations, the Ascent keeps everyone connected and comfortable.
  • Safety Excellence: The Ascent is an IIHS Top Safety Pick+, featuring advanced safety suites including Blind-Spot Detection and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert.
  • Robust Performance: Powered by a 2.4-liter turbocharged Boxer engine delivering 260 horsepower, it balances power and efficiency for varied road conditions.
  • Comfort Features: Tri-zone climate control, available second-row captain’s chairs, and stain-resistant StarTex upholstery make it family-friendly and practical.

Explore the Ascent lineup at New Subaru Ascent Inventory.


Subaru Crosstrek: Compact Yet Capable for Explorers

For those who prefer agility and fuel efficiency, the Subaru Crosstrek delivers. Perfect for urban adventurers in Richmond Heights, Glendale, or Maplewood, it also boasts ruggedness to tackle light off-road trails.

Key attributes:

  • Fuel Efficiency: EPA-rated at 27 mpg city and 34 mpg highway, with a plug-in hybrid variant offering up to 90 MPGe.
  • Ground Clearance: 8.7 inches (standard) and 9.3 inches for the Wilderness trim, ideal for navigating less-traveled paths.
  • Technology: Standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with Subaru Starlink® Multimedia, keep trips connected and entertaining.
  • Winter Readiness: Symmetrical AWD paired with X-MODE ensures confident traction on snowy or slick roads common in Missouri winters.

Check out the latest Crosstrek models at New Subaru Crosstrek Inventory.


Maintaining Your Subaru for Long Hauls

Ensuring your Subaru remains in peak condition during extended road trips involves routine maintenance and timely repairs. At Sunset Hills Subaru, our skilled technicians are ready to assist with everything from oil changes to brake inspections to keep your vehicle running smoothly.

Key maintenance tips include:

  • Regular Oil and Filter Changes: Essential for engine longevity, recommended every 3,000 to 5,000 miles.
  • Tire Care: Proper inflation and rotation extend tire life and improve fuel efficiency.
  • Brake Inspections: Critical for safety, especially before long trips.
  • Use Genuine Subaru Parts: Authentic components from our Parts Department ensure optimal fit and performance.

We invite you to Schedule Service and Diagnostics online or by phone to prepare your Subaru for your next adventure.


Trade-In and Upgrade Options

Ready to upgrade your current vehicle? Use our hassle-free tool to understand your trade-in value and find the perfect Subaru for your road trip lifestyle.

Our sales team at Sunset Hills Subaru is dedicated to helping you find the best fit for your road trip needs.


Experience Sunset Hills Subaru

Located conveniently at 10100 Watson Rd, Sunset Hills, MO 63127, Sunset Hills Subaru is your trusted partner for all things Subaru in the St. Louis region. Whether you’re from Ladue, Sappington, or St. Louis proper, our knowledgeable staff and comprehensive services are here to support your journey.

Why choose us?

  • Expert guidance on choosing the right Subaru for your lifestyle.
  • Factory-trained technicians using genuine Subaru parts.
  • Flexible service hours and online scheduling for your convenience.
  • Ongoing service and parts specials available at Current Service and Parts Specials.

Connect with us today by calling (314) 476-9638 or visiting our website to explore inventory, schedule service, or learn about Subaru’s unmatched safety and performance.


Planning Your Ultimate Road Trip with Subaru

Choosing the perfect Subaru for your adventures ensures more than just a mode of transportation—it guarantees a reliable partner for your journeys across Missouri’s diverse landscapes, from the urban streets of Webster Groves to the scenic trails near Richmond Heights. Whether you prioritize cargo space, fuel efficiency, safety, or off-road capability, Subaru’s lineup offers a match for every traveler.

Experience the blend of comfort, technology, and rugged durability at Sunset Hills Subaru, where your road trip begins with the right vehicle and continues with trusted service and support. Start your journey today by exploring our inventory or scheduling a service appointment to keep your Subaru in peak condition.

Discover your next adventure vehicle now at Sunset Hills Subaru.