Michigan resident here. When things are expected to get really hairy I have my blizzacks mounted & go out joy riding in my 2014 forester. Even great traction on a foot or greater show or a skating rink conditions. Can't wait to see how my new Legacy performs. That was a fun video!
So true. I used to watch car reviews to consider my next car and still watching them sometimes, now when I look at other cars, my decision is immediately "no" or "hell no".
I just purchased a 2024 Subaru Ascent . I replaced a 2018 Outback. I looked at other vehicles, but always came back to Subaru. They just can’t be beat when it comes to driving in the snow. This past week, it snowed 11 inches here in the Texas panhandle, and the Ascent did so well I kept my other vehicles, a Toyota Tacoma TRD off-road pickup in the garage. Zero wheel spin and zero slipping. Wonderful vehicle.
I have owned two Subaru vehicles. The first was a Legacy which did great in the snow. My second and current vehicle is an Outback which is a beast in the snow. My driveway is a hill and it will go up the driveway before I even shovel it with no problem at all. I cannot imagine driving anything but a Subaru! Highly recommend them to all my friends!
We got an incredible 14” of snow in Southern Maryland last weekend. All in a 24 hour window. Took my Outback XT out on the roads to run errands. People slipping and sliding everywhere I looked and they were all driving way under the speed limit trying not to spin out and get stuck. Most of them unsuccessfully. The Subie just plowed through it all at the speed limit and never lost traction. Not once. It is a phenomenal vehicle in any kind of inclement weather but snow just makes it happy..😂😂
Having lived in Canada all my life. I've learned to drive in the snow. I would say driving in snow is probably 50%, or more, the driver. I have a 2018 Subaru Crossteck with the all-year Yokohama's. For the time I lived in Toronto, the snow clearing there is so well done that I never even thought of getting snows, except when going north of the city. When I did, I inevitably saw vehicles in the ditch or on their roofs by the side of the road, I rarely saw Subarus, but lots of AWD and 4WD pickups and SUVs with drivers who did not making allowances for the snow. Even if you have snow tires and AWD - slow down. I haven't had to use the X-mode yet, but that looks like a good tip, thank you.
Correct. AWD doesn't help you stop. It is for traction to get moving. Too many people think they are invincible because they have a 4x4 truck or SUV. That's why you'll see tons of them in ditches during a snowstorm.
Here in Estonia, when learning to drive, we had snow/ice driving as part of training. If I remember correctly (this was 20 years ago), I passed my exams in late summer, got an initial 2 year license, then did a snow driving course next winter, which was required to get a permanent license.
I have a Ford F-150 4x4 four door. I have a Subaru Ascent. (had Outbacks from when they first came out and put over 200K on all of them). Guess what I took yesterday in the snow of NW NC? The Ascent!!! Didn't slip a bit! Damndest snow vehicles I have ever been in.
FIRST!! I had to buy a new car in the late summer of 2024, i had a 2012 subaru legacy, and i wasn't planning on getting another subaru. But i ended up getting the Subaru Legacy touring xt 2025, and we been getting snow in Maryland, and im kinda glad i stuck with Subaru lmao. I been watching people with front wheel drive cars struggling to get out of parking spots or just get around, and rear wheel drive cars are even funnier. AWD baby!
When I had my ‘18 Forester Touring, and was in KCMO in Jan ‘21, several inches of snow had fallen. Our place was on a hill, and the snow plows hadn’t come down the street. I was headed out to run errands, and I used X Mode for the first time, driving that car in snow for the first time, down a hill. It was great. I stayed within the accelerator parameters, and eased down. I will never not have another Subaru as long as I am driving. Now have a ‘21 OB TXT. 😊
I had a 2000 Outback sport, that thing was a beast, it was literally plowing through snow higher than its hood in unplowed roads in a horrible storm in the early morning hours and it just wasn’t going to be stopped, will always have a Subaru
I have a Subaru Outback Wilderness 2024. We have 7" of snow. I take my Lab out every morning weather permitting. This is the highlight of her day. I am the 1st one on the road. this morning. I am driving on pavement and gravel. It has not problem with the snow and this morning we had some ice on the road. As long as you drive on the road and don't wind up in the field everything is fine. I live 30 mile SE of Memphis, so you know we don't get a lot of snow. I sold my 2010 3/4 T. Silverado diesel 4x4 and bought a Subaru. I love my Subaru. I bought my Subaru with the express purpose of being able to drive my Lab out in the country.
Really liked my 2018 Subaru Impreza Hatchback when I bought it. I fell in LOVE when it walked with ease out of 3 feet of snow my first winter 😂 simply nothing like it and I don't know if I'll ever be able to own another car brand
I've had my crosstrek wilderness for just over a year now. Made many videos of it in the snow and up in the mountains/ snow and lava fields. This car is nothing short of incredible. I've absolutely been thrilled with it.
Live in Montreal Canada and I bought a 2020 Outback XT off lease 2 years ago and I love driving this car in the winter. I don't even bother clearing the snow in the front of the car anymore. Best car I ever bought. Love watching your videos, very informative.
I just bought a used (2022) Forester Wilderness. I am coming from many years of Jeep ownership. I really like the AWD continuous feature on my Subaru. So far, the handling in snowy conditions has been excellent.
Tires make a big difference and if you don't want the added expense (and hassle) of changing your wheels and tires every spring and fall, consider a great set of All-weather tires (that have the 3 peak mountain for winter rating). The latest versions of those tires are almost as good as winter tires but you can run them year round. They are MUCH better than a traditional "all-season" tire (which is really just a three season tire as they typically aren't that good in the winter). Ground clearance is another, which Subaru crossover all have an excellent amount of. Of course, lastly the AWD system. However, what makes the Subaru AWD one of the best ones out there is that it is always on. Your vehicle is always operating in AWD mode, so it isn't a FWD (or RWD) that has to react to changing conditions (often called the "slip and grip" design). A proactive system is also better than a reactive system. The other advantage of the Subaru AWD system is the axles are all the same length (hence the "Symmetrical" name). This eliminates torque steer and helps the car track properly in challenging conditions where most other vehicles may fight staying straight (want to pull to the right or left).
Years ago I had a Outback and I put on Nokian all-weather tires. The car was a nightmare - the ABS brakes engaged constantly and the car wouldn't stop on ice and snow. I had so many near misses with other cars, lamp posts. piles of snow, and sliding into intersections on red lights. Since then I've had 2 Volvos and they were a godsend - no stopping issues on ice even with just all-season tires. A friend had an Outback and they loved it, which was why I got one, but they didn't have the same problems I had.
@@DevilishAbstractions It sounds like those weren't great tires. Tires have come a long way in the last few years. I have been using Michelin Cross Climate 2 tires for over 3 years now and they are really good. The new Pirelli tires are also highly rated. You can see some great testing videos of various brands on the channel "Tyre Reviews". Of course, it also depends on where you live. If you live in a 10/10 region (the most extreme areas), get winters. If you search that channel for videos, keep in mind their "All Season" tires are what we call "All Weather" tires in North America (they are in the UK).
You are spot on about the importance of tires. I live in a U.P. snow belt. I run all-weather tires during not-winter, and dedicated winter tires during winter. The all-weather tires cover me for when I am late getting my winters on or early getting them off. Tires are #1. AWD and 4WD are gravy.
We had a bad snow and we had to dig out the ex’s Buick. We got to my 86 gl wagon and I just knocked off the snow, made sure the air intakes were clear, and hopped in to turn on 4wd and drive out of the bank it was packed in. The ex was horrified and thought we had to dig it out too. Ye of little faith. I let it warm up and just went right through the heaps of snow. He was shocked. I just laughed and said this was one of the reasons I loved my Subaru! I’d love to drive another 86, but these days we have 2017 and 2021 OB. I’ll never have anything else.
Thank you so much for your informative video! I do live in CO and have a Sub Outback. Your explanation on Xmode is so good. Your videos make me even happier with my decision to buy my first Subaru in 2022. Your videos show me more about what a great car I have !
I used to carry a big snow shovel in car for such situations. Used to spend few minutes clearing way out of parking spot and sometimes had to skip some unreachable parking spots. That was before I bought a Forester. Now, with a Forester, I still carry shovel just in case, but haven't actually used it. I can also use parking spots that aren't cleaned, which other drivers can't use. Currently we have similar amount of snow, with big layer of ice below it. Absolutely no issues in Forester.
I have a Subaru crosstrek. Love it. I live in Vermont and i think half the cars in Vermont are Subarus. We get a lot of snow. I have all season tire not snow tires and never have a problem. Snow tires will help you go but really don’t help you stop. I am retired so if roads are really bad I can just stay home. Typically if there is a storm and roads are bad they are cleared by next day.
"Snow tires will help you go but really don’t help you stop." Not at all true. There are numerous tests showing that snow tires stop in much shorter distances on snow and ice compared to all season tires, and my own personal experience supports that - there's really no comparison when you've had both.
I love that AWD is standard on all Subarus (except BRZ). For other SUVs where it's optional few are equipped with it where I live in the Dallas area. It was great having it over the holidays driving in our '23 Ascent in Colorado over the snowy mountain passes to / from the ski area. The thing that would be even better is if it was equipped with all weather tires. I can't justify the expense and hassle of snow tires where I live. I put Michelin Crossclimate 2s on our '16 Legacy when it needed new tires - likely will do the same once the factory Falkens need replacement.
Remember those days of snow removal. As I worked 10 years as a courtesy shuttle driver a Subaru dealership in PA. Now living in Charleston area of South Carolina. I’m still a driving a Subaru Ascent even in a mainly non snow area.
Here in Western WA we get occasional snow storms but the issue is not the snow...it is the ice! The winters here are pretty mild compared to Wyoming where I went to college. In Wyoming, it was mostly a dry powder, even my old 1964 Malibu did great...but here in the lowlands of PNW it instantly turns into a thick sheet of ice below and above the snow layer! I Can't wait to try out my 2024 Crosstrek Sport in the ice/snow if we get any this year...
@debbiekendall4915 yeah its barely even frosted this year... I guess I could always go up to one of the mountain passes, but I don't have time for that with my 6 night work week lol. Got my Crosstrek end of January last year, still waiting for snow... how are you liking the outback?
@@Greaser_Gaming I love it. I almost got a Crosstrek, but I wanted more room to go exploring. It's also great for all the rain we have been getting. And to think i almost got a Camry😄. After reading everything about Subies, I figured I could not go wrong, plus that Crimson Red nabbed me. I am curious how it will do on the PNW ice.
Great video Alex. I just picked up a 2024 Premium Crosstrek in late Oct & I'm waiting to drive in some heavy snow here in Chgo to check out the features you described. Your excellent & informative videos helped me jump from a dedicated 40 yr Toyota buyer to a new Subie buyer. Your videos helped me get familiar with my new car. Thank You. 👍👍
I have a 2025 base model Forester that does not have X-Mode and I'm encouraged that the non X-Mode Impreza broke out of the ice with no problems at 7:35. 🙂
Thanks for showing me the features for crosstrek wilderness. Bought it last year but hasn’t try beyond typical camping trails. Excited to try it on a few inches of snow next week!
Thank you for always providing insightful information We are 175 miles from you so we also have snow Our daughter has a 2022 Ascent and my wife has a 2023 Outback Touring XT. Nice to know that snow is not a problem for Subaru. However, the Outback stays in the heated garage until the snow melts.
Subaru has their AWD system dialed in, they've been doing it for years, and its active all the time unlike other vehicles that are front or rear wheel drive based until traction loss is sensed and then a computer will decide if and when you get any additional AWD input. The Outback Wilderness is what I've been looking at for a new vehicle given the somewhat snowy nature of where I live, I'll take less fuel economy and a better AWD system over a questionable AWD system with more fuel economy...in the real world, fuel economy isn't going to matter if the vehicle can't get out of its own way in bad weather. I'm not sure if I'll buy new or get a certified pre-owned Subaru but definitely want the Outback Wilderness. I like to go camping, so the Outback has more room, and ground clearance to handle the backroad excursions.
I live in the upper midwest and we get a lot of snow up here. I had a 2024 Crosstrek Sport with the 2.5 for a few months but was quite disappointed with the gas mileage and traded it in. 21 mpg was about the best I could get even driving like a granny. My previous vehicle was a 2016 Crosstrek Limited with the 2.0 engine. It did much better in that regard. That extra half a liter was not worth the milage hit, IMO. I also had something weird going on with the collision avoidance system on the '24. I would be driving along and all of a sudden it would detect an obstacle when there was absolutely nothing there. It happened several times. I have coworker with a newer Outback. She says the same thing happens to her, At any rate, I now own a Toyota Hybrid which accomplishes AWD by means a dedicated electric motor on the rear axle. I am most impressed with it's abilities in snowy and icy conditions. Under normal driving, it applies torque to the rear wheels to help you get going and then disengages unless slip is detected. To me, this seems like an efficient way to implement AWD on a day to day driver.
Thank you for the info, I have a 2021 Subaru Forester without x mode. Looking forward in getting some snow so I can see what my Subaru can do here in Iowa.
First off, I DID buy my 2021 Crosstrek in winter when it snowed, and will never change to any other make than Subaru, I'm totally sold on it, and BTW my previous car was a VW Passat which did not have the option of turning the traction control off ! so I was always getting stuck going uphill in snow
My Impreza and Crosstrek both have snows on them. The Impreza is just as good in the snow as the the Crosstrek even though it sits much lower. We're in a snow belt in Peterborough, but these vehicles both do well in inclement weather conditions.
Learned something new about the x-mode. At least i hope it's the same for the 2021 Forrester that you don't need to turn it off when your speed increases.
My 2024 Forester Wilderness was down for 3 days because of my wheels being out of balance because of all the snow and ice buildup, not easy to melt it off when it’s in the single digits. I am going to cut plastic and fashion skirting, and then I’ll have a heater blowing under there. I was really bummed about this. Last winter my tailgate was inoperative because of just a little ice buildup on the bumper, had to get a heater on that also.
Want to add, tires make a huge difference in snow. For both my Subarus i have a set of winter tires and summer tires. Winter tires are NOT all terrain tires but true snow tires. In the mountains it does make a difference. I do not use studs as when yoy get onto dry pavement, which is most of your time, they are loud and actually have less traction. True snow tires are the way to go. That and a Subaru of course.😅
We had to replace a 2008 car recently. Long ago I had considered a Subaru outback but wound up with a used 2022 Crosstrek with Limited trim. Had to do interstate snow storm driving yesterday and the AWD made a difference. We stopped to check the windshield fluid and noticed there was a bit of ice slush on the battery and on other underhood components. I was surprised, or rather hubby was surprised. Road slush should not get up there. How would it? Any ideas? Is it serious? Thanks. Your videos made the such a difference in adapting to this “747” amounts of switches and indicators. Our next vehicle will also be a Subaru.
My guess would be the tires throwing snow/water/slush/ice up under the hood at high speed driving like that all that stuff is getting kicked up everywhere on, in, and around your vehicle. Just because the hood is closed doesn't mean your engine compartment is going to be water tight.
I always tell people it’s not about drive modes/4-wheel/all-wheel drive it’s about traction, period. If your tires aren’t gripping whatever surface you’re driving on it’s doesn’t matter. That’s why people who live in snow environments switch over to snow tires with aggressive/cross channel treads during winter season. If you have all seasons and they are below 7/32 nds tread, forget it. Stay home. Don’t let a drive train make you over confident. More than anything, if you don’t have to be on the roads then don’t. Good judgement is more important than a cars drive train. Be safe everyone.
I noticed all the car wipers on the lot are lifted up. I've heard conflicting opinions on doing that. On one hand it keeps the blades from freezing to the windshield and makes clearing the snow easier. On the other hand I've read that it wears out the springs in the wiper arms prematurely and they run the risk of catching a gust of wind and slamming down on the glass, possibly breathing the windshield. I've always erred on the side of caution and left them down. Which is right?
What's the name of this orange snow remover you use at TC 03:45? I live in Austria and would need it for my Outback. We have only brushes and brooms with long sticks but they don't really work well with lots of snow.
I have a 2023 Forester Wilderness with snow tires. I go up and over a mountain at least one round trip daily. It can be slick. Am I better off using the downshift paddle or the snow/mud button or downshifting on the stick to come to a stop on the downhill? If I use the paddle do I need to cancel it out by shifting up?
I bought a 2024 Outback Premium and would like to know if I could bigger tires on it. Like go from my 14 inch to 17 inch and if i did that, would it mess anything up? Or do i have to stay with the size it came with?
my 05 Legacy GT doesn't have XMODE and has done phenomenal with snow as tall as the headlights. I would be worried if the Impreza couldn't do that to... I need to find a way to keep my 2017 Forester XT Touring back up camera clean without constantly getting water and dirt to dry on it. Its annoying to always have to clean it.
Alex, you should check out the Michelin Cross Climate 2 for all Subaru's. I have them on my outback. You get 35% more traction in rain and snow. Nothing in Kentucky stops my Subaru.😂😂
Great video Alex! Is a steel wheel the the best for the snow as in snow does not get compacted in the wheel. I have aluminum wheels and snow compacted up to the brake caliper not cool when it froze so wandering if steelies fix that issue?
Someone told me to never leave the wiper arm up, because that would weaken the spring, so you would have less pressure on the windshield, can this be true?
I’m thinking of putting Michelin crossclimate 2 on my 2023 Outback Onyx 2.5 . My oem tires are still in good shape. What do you think? I guess I would be going from an all season to an all weather tire.
Depends where you live. If you get snow occasionally CC2 is a staple for subies. There are some other all weather options now (Goodyear weatherready2, VREDESTEIN QUATRAC PRO+)
Have a new 2025 Forester and we just got snow. My husband said the windshield didn't clear well because it felt like it had a gummy surface on it, what gives?
From the top of the display, you should be able to click over to the right on the menu like I did in the video. If you don’t see it there, your touch screen may need a software update. Alternatively, I think it’s also within the car settings. To get to certain settings, click on the car icon in the lower left side of the screen
Xmode has a more aggressive wheel braking program, and the xmode with traction control off still keeps the aggressive wheel braking but it doesn't cut the engine power, which is beneficial in the deep snow or similar conditions
Now, they need to get rid of the idiotic automatic engine shutoff "feature". Every time I forget to shut it down, and my engine stops at a stop light, I wonder how much engine life is going to be diminished by it.
Subaru Baja, when is it coming back? Is it going to come with a hybrid option? I love my 2022 Forester but if Baja comes back, especially if it's a hybrid, it would be heaven on earth!
The Baja reports are rumors at this point. No word from Subaru on whether or not this is actually coming out. I don’t expect them to re-introduce the Baja. They do however have hybrids coming! Starting with the new Forester Hybrid arriving in Spring 2025
Michigan resident here. When things are expected to get really hairy I have my blizzacks mounted & go out joy riding in my 2014 forester. Even great traction on a foot or greater show or a skating rink conditions. Can't wait to see how my new Legacy performs. That was a fun video!
Once you buy Subaru You never go back to nothing else top notch
So true. I used to watch car reviews to consider my next car and still watching them sometimes, now when I look at other cars, my decision is immediately "no" or "hell no".
I just purchased a 2024 Subaru Ascent . I replaced a 2018 Outback. I looked at other vehicles, but always came back to Subaru. They just can’t be beat when it comes to driving in the snow. This past week, it snowed 11 inches here in the Texas panhandle, and the Ascent did so well I kept my other vehicles, a Toyota Tacoma TRD off-road pickup in the garage. Zero wheel spin and zero slipping. Wonderful vehicle.
I have owned two Subaru vehicles. The first was a Legacy which did great in the snow. My second and current vehicle is an Outback which is a beast in the snow. My driveway is a hill and it will go up the driveway before I even shovel it with no problem at all. I cannot imagine driving anything but a Subaru! Highly recommend them to all my friends!
We got an incredible 14” of snow in Southern Maryland last weekend. All in a 24 hour window. Took my Outback XT out on the roads to run errands. People slipping and sliding everywhere I looked and they were all driving way under the speed limit trying not to spin out and get stuck. Most of them unsuccessfully. The Subie just plowed through it all at the speed limit and never lost traction. Not once. It is a phenomenal vehicle in any kind of inclement weather but snow just makes it happy..😂😂
Having lived in Canada all my life. I've learned to drive in the snow.
I would say driving in snow is probably 50%, or more, the driver.
I have a 2018 Subaru Crossteck with the all-year Yokohama's.
For the time I lived in Toronto, the snow clearing there is so well done that I never even thought of getting snows, except when going north of the city.
When I did, I inevitably saw vehicles in the ditch or on their roofs by the side of the road, I rarely saw Subarus, but lots of AWD and 4WD pickups and SUVs with drivers who did not making allowances for the snow.
Even if you have snow tires and AWD - slow down.
I haven't had to use the X-mode yet, but that looks like a good tip, thank you.
@@arrjay2410 I agree with you. The car can only do so much. Especially when you’re up against ice.
Correct. AWD doesn't help you stop. It is for traction to get moving. Too many people think they are invincible because they have a 4x4 truck or SUV. That's why you'll see tons of them in ditches during a snowstorm.
Driver and the tires make a difference in snow/ice.
Here in Estonia, when learning to drive, we had snow/ice driving as part of training.
If I remember correctly (this was 20 years ago), I passed my exams in late summer, got an initial 2 year license, then did a snow driving course next winter, which was required to get a permanent license.
I have a Ford F-150 4x4 four door. I have a Subaru Ascent. (had Outbacks from when they first came out and put over 200K on all of them). Guess what I took yesterday in the snow of NW NC? The Ascent!!! Didn't slip a bit! Damndest snow vehicles I have ever been in.
FIRST!! I had to buy a new car in the late summer of 2024, i had a 2012 subaru legacy, and i wasn't planning on getting another subaru. But i ended up getting the Subaru Legacy touring xt 2025, and we been getting snow in Maryland, and im kinda glad i stuck with Subaru lmao. I been watching people with front wheel drive cars struggling to get out of parking spots or just get around, and rear wheel drive cars are even funnier. AWD baby!
@@RoBDeeZL42 it works so well! Very pleased with mine
I have a 2011 legacy 3.6r in MD as well!
2009 Impreza hatchback, awesome car. Like a Timex, takes a lickings and keeps on tickin.
When I had my ‘18 Forester Touring, and was in KCMO in Jan ‘21, several inches of snow had fallen. Our place was on a hill, and the snow plows hadn’t come down the street.
I was headed out to run errands, and I used X Mode for the first time, driving that car in snow for the first time, down a hill. It was great. I stayed within the accelerator parameters, and eased down. I will never not have another Subaru as long as I am driving. Now have a ‘21 OB TXT. 😊
I had a 2000 Outback sport, that thing was a beast, it was literally plowing through snow higher than its hood in unplowed roads in a horrible storm in the early morning hours and it just wasn’t going to be stopped, will always have a Subaru
I have a Subaru Outback Wilderness 2024. We have 7" of snow. I take my Lab out every morning weather permitting. This is the highlight of her day. I am the 1st one on the road. this morning. I am driving on pavement and gravel. It has not problem with the snow and this morning we had some ice on the road. As long as you drive on the road and don't wind up in the field everything is fine. I live 30 mile SE of Memphis, so you know we don't get a lot of snow. I sold my 2010 3/4 T. Silverado diesel 4x4 and bought a Subaru. I love my Subaru. I bought my Subaru with the express purpose of being able to drive my Lab out in the country.
Really liked my 2018 Subaru Impreza Hatchback when I bought it. I fell in LOVE when it walked with ease out of 3 feet of snow my first winter 😂 simply nothing like it and I don't know if I'll ever be able to own another car brand
I've had my crosstrek wilderness for just over a year now. Made many videos of it in the snow and up in the mountains/ snow and lava fields. This car is nothing short of incredible. I've absolutely been thrilled with it.
@@Amberdogproductions fun little Subaru for sure!
Live in Montreal Canada and I bought a 2020 Outback XT off lease 2 years ago and I love driving this car in the winter.
I don't even bother clearing the snow in the front of the car anymore.
Best car I ever bought. Love watching your videos, very informative.
@@joeyhornyak8349 didn’t even have to clear my driveway with the snow. Just hop in and go!
I just bought a used (2022) Forester Wilderness. I am coming from many years of Jeep ownership. I really like the AWD continuous feature on my Subaru. So far, the handling in snowy conditions has been excellent.
Tires make a big difference and if you don't want the added expense (and hassle) of changing your wheels and tires every spring and fall, consider a great set of All-weather tires (that have the 3 peak mountain for winter rating). The latest versions of those tires are almost as good as winter tires but you can run them year round. They are MUCH better than a traditional "all-season" tire (which is really just a three season tire as they typically aren't that good in the winter). Ground clearance is another, which Subaru crossover all have an excellent amount of. Of course, lastly the AWD system. However, what makes the Subaru AWD one of the best ones out there is that it is always on. Your vehicle is always operating in AWD mode, so it isn't a FWD (or RWD) that has to react to changing conditions (often called the "slip and grip" design). A proactive system is also better than a reactive system. The other advantage of the Subaru AWD system is the axles are all the same length (hence the "Symmetrical" name). This eliminates torque steer and helps the car track properly in challenging conditions where most other vehicles may fight staying straight (want to pull to the right or left).
@@jeffer1101 all great points! I appreciate your elaboration on each
Years ago I had a Outback and I put on Nokian all-weather tires. The car was a nightmare - the ABS brakes engaged constantly and the car wouldn't stop on ice and snow. I had so many near misses with other cars, lamp posts. piles of snow, and sliding into intersections on red lights. Since then I've had 2 Volvos and they were a godsend - no stopping issues on ice even with just all-season tires. A friend had an Outback and they loved it, which was why I got one, but they didn't have the same problems I had.
@@DevilishAbstractions It sounds like those weren't great tires. Tires have come a long way in the last few years. I have been using Michelin Cross Climate 2 tires for over 3 years now and they are really good. The new Pirelli tires are also highly rated. You can see some great testing videos of various brands on the channel "Tyre Reviews". Of course, it also depends on where you live. If you live in a 10/10 region (the most extreme areas), get winters. If you search that channel for videos, keep in mind their "All Season" tires are what we call "All Weather" tires in North America (they are in the UK).
You are spot on about the importance of tires. I live in a U.P. snow belt. I run all-weather tires during not-winter, and dedicated winter tires during winter. The all-weather tires cover me for when I am late getting my winters on or early getting them off. Tires are #1. AWD and 4WD are gravy.
We had a bad snow and we had to dig out the ex’s Buick. We got to my 86 gl wagon and I just knocked off the snow, made sure the air intakes were clear, and hopped in to turn on 4wd and drive out of the bank it was packed in. The ex was horrified and thought we had to dig it out too. Ye of little faith. I let it warm up and just went right through the heaps of snow. He was shocked. I just laughed and said this was one of the reasons I loved my Subaru! I’d love to drive another 86, but these days we have 2017 and 2021 OB. I’ll never have anything else.
Thank you so much for your informative video! I do live in CO and have a Sub Outback. Your explanation on Xmode is so good. Your videos make me even happier with my decision to buy my first Subaru in 2022. Your videos show me more about what a great car I have !
@@marthabradas8873 thank you!
I used to carry a big snow shovel in car for such situations. Used to spend few minutes clearing way out of parking spot and sometimes had to skip some unreachable parking spots. That was before I bought a Forester.
Now, with a Forester, I still carry shovel just in case, but haven't actually used it. I can also use parking spots that aren't cleaned, which other drivers can't use.
Currently we have similar amount of snow, with big layer of ice below it. Absolutely no issues in Forester.
I have a Subaru crosstrek. Love it. I live in Vermont and i think half the cars in Vermont are Subarus. We get a lot of snow. I have all season tire not snow tires and never have a problem. Snow tires will help you go but really don’t help you stop. I am retired so if roads are really bad I can just stay home. Typically if there is a storm and roads are bad they are cleared by next day.
"Snow tires will help you go but really don’t help you stop." Not at all true. There are numerous tests showing that snow tires stop in much shorter distances on snow and ice compared to all season tires, and my own personal experience supports that - there's really no comparison when you've had both.
I love that AWD is standard on all Subarus (except BRZ). For other SUVs where it's optional few are equipped with it where I live in the Dallas area. It was great having it over the holidays driving in our '23 Ascent in Colorado over the snowy mountain passes to / from the ski area. The thing that would be even better is if it was equipped with all weather tires. I can't justify the expense and hassle of snow tires where I live. I put Michelin Crossclimate 2s on our '16 Legacy when it needed new tires - likely will do the same once the factory Falkens need replacement.
Remember those days of snow removal. As I worked 10 years as a courtesy shuttle driver a Subaru dealership in PA. Now living in Charleston area of South Carolina. I’m still a driving a Subaru Ascent even in a mainly non snow area.
Thank you. This was great to see.
Here in Western WA we get occasional snow storms but the issue is not the snow...it is the ice! The winters here are pretty mild compared to Wyoming where I went to college. In Wyoming, it was mostly a dry powder, even my old 1964 Malibu did great...but here in the lowlands of PNW it instantly turns into a thick sheet of ice below and above the snow layer!
I Can't wait to try out my 2024 Crosstrek Sport in the ice/snow if we get any this year...
I would be surprised if we got any this year, it has been really mild. But I know what you mean, I got a 24 Outback last April and want to test it.
@debbiekendall4915 yeah its barely even frosted this year... I guess I could always go up to one of the mountain passes, but I don't have time for that with my 6 night work week lol.
Got my Crosstrek end of January last year, still waiting for snow... how are you liking the outback?
@@Greaser_Gaming I love it. I almost got a Crosstrek, but I wanted more room to go exploring. It's also great for all the rain we have been getting. And to think i almost got a Camry😄. After reading everything about Subies, I figured I could not go wrong, plus that Crimson Red nabbed me. I am curious how it will do on the PNW ice.
Great video Alex. I just picked up a 2024 Premium Crosstrek in late Oct & I'm waiting to drive in some heavy snow here in Chgo to check out the features you described. Your excellent & informative videos helped me jump from a dedicated 40 yr Toyota buyer to a new Subie buyer. Your videos helped me get familiar with my new car. Thank You. 👍👍
I have a 2025 base model Forester that does not have X-Mode and I'm encouraged that the non X-Mode Impreza broke out of the ice with no problems at 7:35. 🙂
I bought my base model 2025 Subaru Forester on 12/26/2024. Glad to see that too.
Thanks for showing me the features for crosstrek wilderness. Bought it last year but hasn’t try beyond typical camping trails. Excited to try it on a few inches of snow next week!
Thank you for always providing insightful information We are 175 miles from you so we also have snow Our daughter has a 2022 Ascent and my wife has a 2023 Outback Touring XT. Nice to know that snow is not a problem for Subaru. However, the Outback stays in the heated garage until the snow melts.
Subaru has their AWD system dialed in, they've been doing it for years, and its active all the time unlike other vehicles that are front or rear wheel drive based until traction loss is sensed and then a computer will decide if and when you get any additional AWD input.
The Outback Wilderness is what I've been looking at for a new vehicle given the somewhat snowy nature of where I live, I'll take less fuel economy and a better AWD system over a questionable AWD system with more fuel economy...in the real world, fuel economy isn't going to matter if the vehicle can't get out of its own way in bad weather.
I'm not sure if I'll buy new or get a certified pre-owned Subaru but definitely want the Outback Wilderness. I like to go camping, so the Outback has more room, and ground clearance to handle the backroad excursions.
@@wildbill23c i got the crosstrek wilderness and am often WAY out in nowhere with it. It has been amazing.
love my outback xt
Timely video, thanks Alex!
I have a 2021 Impreza sedan and love it❤ will own no other! so far no problem managing in the snow ❄️ 💪.
I live in Colorado, where we fondly refer to Subaru's as the "Colorado State Car" because you see so many of them
I live in the upper midwest and we get a lot of snow up here. I had a 2024 Crosstrek Sport with the 2.5 for a few months but was quite disappointed with the gas mileage and traded it in. 21 mpg was about the best I could get even driving like a granny. My previous vehicle was a 2016 Crosstrek Limited with the 2.0 engine. It did much better in that regard. That extra half a liter was not worth the milage hit, IMO. I also had something weird going on with the collision avoidance system on the '24. I would be driving along and all of a sudden it would detect an obstacle when there was absolutely nothing there. It happened several times. I have coworker with a newer Outback. She says the same thing happens to her, At any rate, I now own a Toyota Hybrid which accomplishes AWD by means a dedicated electric motor on the rear axle. I am most impressed with it's abilities in snowy and icy conditions. Under normal driving, it applies torque to the rear wheels to help you get going and then disengages unless slip is detected. To me, this seems like an efficient way to implement AWD on a day to day driver.
Thank you for the info, I have a 2021 Subaru Forester without x mode. Looking forward in getting some snow so I can see what my Subaru can do here in Iowa.
First off, I DID buy my 2021 Crosstrek in winter when it snowed, and will never change to any other make than Subaru, I'm totally sold on it, and BTW my previous car was a VW Passat which did not have the option of turning the traction control off ! so I was always getting stuck going uphill in snow
I had a chance to drive mine in the snow earlier this week. Didn’t even have to use the x mode. It was kind of fun.
Just in time. The back roads to my neighborhood are the last to be cleared and I need to hit the road today.
@@sfomanssp1334 stay safe out there!
Thank you! Helpful for my older car. I was wondering how the xmode worked.
My Impreza and Crosstrek both have snows on them. The Impreza is just as good in the snow as the the Crosstrek even though it sits much lower. We're in a snow belt in Peterborough, but these vehicles both do well in inclement weather conditions.
55603. Nothing beats Subaru!
Awesome video! Thank you!
The Subaru symmetrical AWD is awesome
You do that smart little kick thing to get snow off your shoes that I do!
@@johnbarnes5845 yes! It’s fun too 😂
Learned something new about the x-mode. At least i hope it's the same for the 2021 Forrester that you don't need to turn it off when your speed increases.
that was very enjoyable Alex, I don't like the snow but I love my 2015 ForesterXT Touring with Goodyear Assurance Comfortdrive Tires 👍💯
Thanks! 😊
Subaru is best all wheel drive out there. I have a 2016 Forester XT, 2.0 turbo, 290,000 miles and runs like new. Lots of Subarus in Minnesota!
there is no turbo for forester.
@@sanotyobe In 2016 there was on option for turbo. Not on the new ones though.
My 2024 Forester Wilderness was down for 3 days because of my wheels being out of balance because of all the snow and ice buildup, not easy to melt it off when it’s in the single digits. I am going to cut plastic and fashion skirting, and then I’ll have a heater blowing under there. I was really bummed about this. Last winter my tailgate was inoperative because of just a little ice buildup on the bumper, had to get a heater on that also.
Really impressed
Thanks for explaining X-Mode
Happy to help!
Want to add, tires make a huge difference in snow. For both my Subarus i have a set of winter tires and summer tires. Winter tires are NOT all terrain tires but true snow tires. In the mountains it does make a difference. I do not use studs as when yoy get onto dry pavement, which is most of your time, they are loud and actually have less traction. True snow tires are the way to go. That and a Subaru of course.😅
A day late for my subaru in yesterday's storm 😭 Thanks tho since i can use these tips in the future!
I backed my 2019 Impreza out of a similar snow drift here in Missouri this morning. I'll never drive anything else than a Subaru.
We had to replace a 2008 car recently. Long ago I had considered a Subaru outback but wound up with a used 2022 Crosstrek with Limited trim. Had to do interstate snow storm driving yesterday and the AWD made a difference. We stopped to check the windshield fluid and noticed there was a bit of ice slush on the battery and on other underhood components. I was surprised, or rather hubby was surprised. Road slush should not get up there. How would it? Any ideas? Is it serious? Thanks. Your videos made the such a difference in adapting to this “747” amounts of switches and indicators. Our next vehicle will also be a Subaru.
@@suem6004 happy to hear you’ve enjoyed your Crosstrek! Not sure how snow would get up there. Maybe through the grille vents?
My guess would be the tires throwing snow/water/slush/ice up under the hood at high speed driving like that all that stuff is getting kicked up everywhere on, in, and around your vehicle. Just because the hood is closed doesn't mean your engine compartment is going to be water tight.
Loving my 24 cross trek.
I’m waiting on the hybrid for this new generation of Forester.
Let’s go Subaru.
Thanks Alex 😊
I always tell people it’s not about drive modes/4-wheel/all-wheel drive it’s about traction, period.
If your tires aren’t gripping whatever surface you’re driving on it’s doesn’t matter. That’s why people who live in snow environments switch over to snow tires with aggressive/cross channel treads during winter season.
If you have all seasons and they are below 7/32 nds tread, forget it. Stay home.
Don’t let a drive train make you over confident. More than anything, if you don’t have to be on the roads then don’t.
Good judgement is more important than a cars drive train.
Be safe everyone.
I noticed all the car wipers on the lot are lifted up. I've heard conflicting opinions on doing that. On one hand it keeps the blades from freezing to the windshield and makes clearing the snow easier. On the other hand I've read that it wears out the springs in the wiper arms prematurely and they run the risk of catching a gust of wind and slamming down on the glass, possibly breathing the windshield. I've always erred on the side of caution and left them down. Which is right?
What's the name of this orange snow remover you use at TC 03:45? I live in Austria and would need it for my Outback. We have only brushes and brooms with long sticks but they don't really work well with lots of snow.
I have a 2023 Forester Wilderness with snow tires. I go up and over a mountain at least one round trip daily. It can be slick. Am I better off using the downshift paddle or the snow/mud button or downshifting on the stick to come to a stop on the downhill? If I use the paddle do I need to cancel it out by shifting up?
3:40 Do you have a link on where to purchase the orange foam snow brush?
I didn't buy the one we have at the dealer but I believe this is it! amazon.rockporch.com/prdlink/OPkOHL5gOT
@alexpmo thanks much Alex! 🙂👍
@ you’re welcome!
@alexpmo You should have put in an affiliate link for this … everyone is going to want one!
Can you explain the paddle shifters? I have a 2023 Forester Touring. Do you have to upshift after downshifting?
I bought a 2024 Outback Premium and would like to know if I could bigger tires on it. Like go from my 14 inch to 17 inch and if i did that, would it mess anything up? Or do i have to stay with the size it came with?
Actually, we usually get a good amount of snow in the Midwest, but I wouldn’t call KY the Midwest.
Lol thought this too. The “Midwest” gets a lot of snow. KY is the south…
@ I consider anything south of the Mason Dixon Line southern.
@@Zanderthelab I’m in Indiana on the border of Kentucky. It’s been referred to as the Midwest my whole life 😂
my 05 Legacy GT doesn't have XMODE and has done phenomenal with snow as tall as the headlights. I would be worried if the Impreza couldn't do that to... I need to find a way to keep my 2017 Forester XT Touring back up camera clean without constantly getting water and dirt to dry on it. Its annoying to always have to clean it.
Alex, you should check out the Michelin Cross Climate 2 for all Subaru's. I have them on my outback. You get 35% more traction in rain and snow. Nothing in Kentucky stops my Subaru.😂😂
Just put those on my 21 Forester and already loving them!
@@chucklangwell6927 what’s the source of the 35%?
Great video Alex! Is a steel wheel the the best for the snow as in snow does not get compacted in the wheel. I have aluminum wheels and snow compacted up to the brake caliper not cool when it froze so wandering if steelies fix that issue?
7:39 sounds like you scraped the front bumper 😢
Someone told me to never leave the wiper arm up, because that would weaken the spring, so you would have less pressure on the windshield, can this be true?
I’m thinking of putting Michelin crossclimate 2 on my 2023 Outback Onyx 2.5 . My oem tires are still in good shape. What do you think?
I guess I would be going from an all season to an all weather tire.
Depends where you live. If you get snow occasionally CC2 is a staple for subies. There are some other all weather options now (Goodyear weatherready2, VREDESTEIN QUATRAC PRO+)
@ I live in the PNW. Always had oem for my previous Subarus, but reviews on the cc2 are great. Don’t want 2 sets of tires.
a shovel and a brush in the trunk will not be superfluous ;)
9.3in measuring from where?
Have a new 2025 Forester and we just got snow. My husband said the windshield didn't clear well because it felt like it had a gummy surface on it, what gives?
In Sydney NSW, we never get snow so I have to ask, WHY do all your wind screen wipers stick up in the air.
How I would like to have those models here in Brazil!!!!!!!!!
Alex, I have the 2022 Outback Limited. How did you turn on X-Mode?
From the top of the display, you should be able to click over to the right on the menu like I did in the video. If you don’t see it there, your touch screen may need a software update. Alternatively, I think it’s also within the car settings. To get to certain settings, click on the car icon in the lower left side of the screen
Yeah my 2005 Outback XT manual doesn’t have X-mode
I dont fully understand how xmode with traction control OFF is any different from the setting with no xmode?
Xmode has a more aggressive wheel braking program, and the xmode with traction control off still keeps the aggressive wheel braking but it doesn't cut the engine power, which is beneficial in the deep snow or similar conditions
Studded Hakka 10s on my 2013 3.6 Outback literally just feels like cheating in the winter lol
thanks!
I have a Crosstrek & love it! Now I want one of those foam “brushes”!!!
Yes where could we get one?
Can you make a video of actually driving them on a road and not 2 feet in a parking lot?
The wifes forester with a good set.of snow tires is a tank in snow
This is what they mean when the y say drink the kool Aid.
Now, they need to get rid of the idiotic automatic engine shutoff "feature". Every time I forget to shut it down, and my engine stops at a stop light, I wonder how much engine life is going to be diminished by it.
Subaru Baja, when is it coming back? Is it going to come with a hybrid option? I love my 2022 Forester but if Baja comes back, especially if it's a hybrid, it would be heaven on earth!
The Baja reports are rumors at this point. No word from Subaru on whether or not this is actually coming out. I don’t expect them to re-introduce the Baja. They do however have hybrids coming! Starting with the new Forester Hybrid arriving in Spring 2025
It's not the best in snow. Both our Jeep and our Audi are better in snow than our Subaru.
Quattro can drive on Mt.Everest.
That just isn't a lot of snow.
I could’ve crawls out of that snow in my’s 1975 dodge pick up truck