It’s Not Just On The Trail Where Subaru Is Active

There's more than the trail. 

You aren't alone if you bought your Subaru Forester, Crosstrek, or Outback for the trail. But there's more to Subaru than a dirt trail. Don't forget the sandy beach. Subarus aren't just driving in deep sand; they are helping to save lives. 

Subaru provides 35 of its all-wheel-drive vehicles and other support as an official partner of the Japan Lifesaving Association (JLA). 

Subaru says, "We practice "people-centered monozukuri (manufacturing)," placing the highest priority on safety and protecting lives. This project seeks to build on the company's philosophy through initiatives that engage customers and local communities."

This project is a testament to that philosophy, engaging customers and local communities in initiatives that ensure safety and protection.

Subaru is active on the beach. 

Subaru has been offering Forester, Crosstrek, Outback, and other all-wheel-drive models since 2020. Read my report here. 

Subaru Corporation is not just an official partner of the JLA, but a significant contributor to its goal of eliminating incidents on the country's beaches. As an island in the Pacific Ocean, Subaru has plenty of beaches to patrol, and your support makes a significant impact on this mission.

Subaru says that together with authorized dealerships, the Japanese automaker is working to expand the circle of empathy and harmony by contributing to society through the Cherishing Every Life Project.

Subaru assists the lifesavers.

"In this spirit, Subaru will continue to assist lifesavers in their monitoring and rescue activities by providing Subaru Lifesaver Cars, as it has been doing every summer since 2020," says the announcement.

As an official JLA partner, Subaru increased the number of vehicles to 35 this year, including Forester and other models. These vehicles were provided to lifesaving organizations in 29 prefectures through 27 Subaru dealerships around Japan.

Subaru Lifesaver Cars are used for community patrols, safety education, and beach patrols. All vehicles are equipped with compact, lightweight automated external defibrillators (AEDs) to help save lives. 

The company's activities extend to supporter workshops jointly organized by Subaru dealers and regional lifesaving associations. JLA instructors share knowledge and skills in CPR and AED operation (interactive basic life support instruction, etc.).

Subaru also supports JLA's 2024 Water Safety Month awareness-raising campaign (July 1 to 31, 2024), which aims to give beachgoers the knowledge and skills to care for themselves and prevent water-related accidents.

Which models make the best beach vehicles? 

Kelley Blue Book has ranked Subaru vehicles among the ten best beach cars. Read my Outback is beachy report here. 

The Forester, Crosstrek, and Outback come with Subaru's excellent Symmetrical all-wheel-drive tech. They also boast an off-road system that sets them apart from other SUVs: X-Mode for off-pavement and extreme conditions, providing a sense of confidence and security in challenging terrains. 

X-Mode controls the engine, transmission, all-wheel-drive torque split, and braking system when road conditions are challenging and there is a need to capitalize on the grip. This is useful when there is mud, wet conditions, and deep sand on the beach.

The Wilderness trim levels also have a new dual-function X-Mode for added off-pavement capabilities. The new system has settings for Snow and Dirt mode and the new Deep Snow/Deep Mud Mode, which is best for sand where traction is compromised.

So, if you are heading to the beach in your Subaru all-wheel-drive SUV, you won't get stuck like other SUVs. It's good to know Subaru is also helping save lives at the beach. 

In Japan, Subaru Corporation says, "Subaru will continue to pursue sustainable growth as a truly global company while helping to create a more enjoyable and sustainable society." 

Are you heading to the beach in your all-wheel-drive Subaru SUV? Where is your favorite beach for water sports? Click the red Add new comment link below and let us know.

I am Denis Flierl, a top Torque News reporter since 2012. I’ve invested over 13 years in the automotive industry in a consulting role, working with every major car brand. I am an experienced Rocky Mountain Automotive Press member. You'll find my expert Subaru analysis here. Follow me on my X SubaruReport, All Subaru, WRXSTI, @DenisFlierl, Facebook, and Instagram.

Photo credit: Subaru