6 Questions Looming Large Over Subaru Right Now

The 2024 Subaru Crosstrek, Outback, and Forester are the brand's top-selling models, but there are questions about future models. Here are five questions that loom large for the Japanese automaker.

As the 2024 Subaru Forester, Outback, Crosstrek, and other new models arrive, there are questions about future models and trim levels. In my comment section and on The Dirty Subaru, I get valuable information and feedback from my readers. Here are some of the top questions owners have about what's coming. 

Here are six questions you and other Subaru owners have for the Japanese automaker. 

photo credit: Clay Subaru

1. Will Subaru bring back the WRX and STI hatchback?

Subaru is always tight-lipped about its next-generation models, and the next-generation WRX and STI are no different. Subaru has been mum about any future plans. Subaru CEO Atsushi Osaki will keep any future model plans private, but there are no plans to produce a WRX hatch soon. 

Subaru could offer a new WRX and STI hatchback body style when the model gets a mid-cycle refresh for the 2026 model year. But don't look for Subaru Corporation to make significant changes until the all-new electric STe arrives in 2027.

2. When will Subaru bring back a Forester with a turbocharged engine?

Subaru stated in its 2020 Vision plan it would bring new smaller turbocharged engines for its entire all-wheel-drive lineup. The Outback, Ascent, and Legacy come with the 2.4-liter direct-injection turbocharged Boxer engine. The number-one selling 2024 Forester SUV only offers a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder Boxer. Will Subaru offer the 2025 Forester Wilderness with a turbocharged engine? Stay tuned. 

3. When will Subaru increase Forester's tow capacity?

Subaru attracts customers with active lifestyles, and they want a vehicle with a "go-anywhere" attitude, which the Forester has in its DNA. But Subaru Corporation failed its adventurous customers by not improving the new sixth-generation Forester's tow rating. If you want to tow anything larger than a small utility trailer with the newly redesigned Forester SUV, you are out of luck.

4. When will Subaru offer a head-up display?

What was once exclusively available in luxury vehicles head-up displays are now standard on some mainstream brand cars. Hyundai, Mazda, and Toyota are offering head-up displays (HUD). Unfortunately, Subaru doesn't offer a HUD on any 2024 or 2025 model vehicle in its lineup. 

5. Will Subaru ever offer a midsize pickup?

Midsize trucks have been one of the hottest segments for automakers, and a new Subaru truck would sell well. The brand's Symmetrical all-wheel-drive system and Wilderness upgrades would be a perfect fit for a pickup and would likely be a big hit with truck buyers who want to go off-road.

Don't look for Subaru to bring a midsize pickup anytime soon. The new all-electric models are the brand's top priority for new 2025-2030 vehicles.

6. When will Subaru offer an Outback hybrid model?

Subaru will offer the 2025 Forester with a new hybrid powertrain. When will the Outback midsize SUV get a hybrid trim level? Subaru will likely offer U.S. customers a next-generation 2025 Outback Hybrid trim level. I expect Subaru to give the announcement sometime after the first of the year. Stay tuned. 

Your turn

What are the questions you have for Subaru?

Thanks for reading, everyone. I hope you enjoyed this Subaru story. See you tomorrow for my latest Subaru Report.

For additional articles related to new Subaru models, here are a few of my top stories you may enjoy. 

My Must-Read Top Picks

• The One Feature You Want That’s Missing On The Next-Gen Subaru Forester
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• The 5 Most Affordable SUVs - New Subaru Crosstrek Isn’t The Cheapest But It's The Best

Check out: 7 Subaru Winter Driving Features And One That's Still Missing On Many Models YouTube video

I am Denis Flierl, a 12-year Torque News senior writer with 20+ years of Subaru and automotive journalism experience. I enjoy bringing you, the Subaru fans and customers, the most up-to-date Subaru news, reviews, and new model information. You'll find the latest Subaru stories on the Subaru page. Follow me on my The Dirty Subaru website, Dirty Subaru blog, SubaruReport, All Subaru, WRXSTI, @DenisFlierl, Facebook, and Instagram.

I’ve got you covered! - I cover all Subaru all the time - It’s called the “Subaru Report.” Check back daily for my expert Subaru analysis!

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photo credit: main image Competition Subaru