Subaru Is The Official Car Of Which State?

There is one U.S. state where Subaru has not just been a popular car, but it's been called 'the official state car.'  It may have been said in jest, but it's also true. Can you guess which state?

There's a unique love story between one U.S. state and Subaru.

The Subaru brand is smokin' hot in several U.S. regions. It's particularly popular in the Pacific Northwest, Rocky Mountain states, and the Northeast U.S. states. An updated study from Insurify reveals that Subaru has the highest ownership rate of any automaker in the state of Vermont. Are you surprised? 

Insurify says, "One (Subaru) media representative for the brand once called Subaru 'The official car of Vermont.' 

Who is buying all the Subaru models in Vermont?

The data reveals an interesting fact. Vermont is the only state in which Subaru is the most popular brand for Generation Z buyers. Gen Zers were born between 1997–2012 making them 12 to 27 years old. 

Insurify isolated the car model with the most uniquely popular ownership per generation based on the model's highest ownership rate per generation compared to the national average for that model.

Gen Z drivers are attracted to Subaru more than all others in Vermont.

As Gen Z makes up more of the car-buyer market, manufacturers will likely cater more to their tastes. Massive SUVs and pickups have fallen out of favor with Gen Z, who prize fuel efficiency, says Insurify.

Affordability and fuel efficiency

Affordable, fuel-efficient models like the Subaru Impreza compact hatchback, Crosstrek subcompact SUV, and BRZ sports car are the favorite models for Gen Zers in Vermont. The Forester compact SUV and Outback midsize SUV aren't far behind. 

Insurify says, "Environmental concerns may sway younger drivers toward more fuel-efficient cars. Eighty-five percent of Americans ages 18–29 think they'll need to make future sacrifices in their everyday life because of climate change, a 2023 Pew Research poll found. Only 61% of Americans aged 65 and older said the same."

"Gen Z, on the other hand, prefers a less practical car. The Subaru BRZ/Toyota GR86 starts at about $30,000. The engine isn't exceptionally powerful for a sports car, but the light coupe maintains speed and handles well on curvy roads. The folding backseat is cramped, but space is less of a concern for the Gen Z-ers who don't have kids yet."

Why is Subaru the brand in Vermont?

It's easy to figure out. The University of Vermont says, "Vermont winters are long and cold, typically lasting from late November to early April, depending on the region. January is the coldest month, with an average high of 28 degrees and low temperatures of 10 degrees. The state averages 74.8 inches of snow per year, which can fall anytime between November and April."

It goes without saying that Vermont vehicles require severe weather capability. Subaru is the right vehicle for the job. All Subaru models, except the rear-drive BRZ, come standard with Subaru's Symmetrical all-wheel-drive system for all-weather capability. 

There's still more for Vermonters. 

Subaru's Forester, Outback, and Crosstrek SUVs all have X-Mode for additional traction when needed. Some Subaru models also have Subaru's dual-function X-Mode for all-terrain capability in deep snow, mud, and sand. The Subaru SUVs also have 8.7 inches of ground clearance of deep snow clearing ability.

You've likely heard of the Wilderness sub-brand for outdoor enthusiasts.

Subaru now offers the rugged Outback, Forester, and Crosstrek Wilderness trims for off-pavement excursions. These trims will take you further off the beaten path. 

Any Subaru vehicle is ready for severe winter weather. And in the summer, Vermont has an enormous playground for activities like hiking, mountain biking, kayaking, and trail running. 

Activities like these are another reason why Vermonters are attracted to the Subaru brand. It's not a surprise that Subaru is called 'The official car of Vermont.'

Do you live in Vermont? What vehicle do you drive? If so, 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: Freepiks