Subaru Earns Top Spots on the Car and Driver 2025 Editors’ Choice List
Subaru continues to turn heads in the automotive world, with three of its popular models landing on the Car and Driver 2025 Editors' Choice List. The agile Subaru BRZ, the adventure-ready Subaru Crosstrek, and the iconic Subaru Outback each took home accolades in their respective segments. This achievement underscores Subaru's commitment to producing vehicles that expertly balance performance, safety, and affordability.
Three Subaru Models in the Limelight
The following vehicles grabbed prime spots on the Car and Driver 2025 Editors' Choice List:
- 2025 Subaru BRZ - Affordable Sports Car
- 2025 Subaru Crosstrek - Compact SUV
- 2025 Subaru Outback - Station Wagon
Each of these models carries the Subaru name proudly. From the lightweight, corners-with-confidence BRZ, to the versatile Crosstrek, to the go-anywhere Outback, Car and Driver praised how each vehicle delivers on its unique "mission" statement. In a field of nearly 500 vehicles across 45 classes, being singled out for excellence is no small accomplishment.
Behind the Scenes: How Car and Driver Chooses Winners
To determine award recipients, Car and Driver conducts rigorous instrumented testing on each model. The team also evaluates subjective elements such as handling feel, ride quality, and design. Vehicles that land on the Editors' Choice List must excel in both objective performance data and real-world driver impressions. Additionally, the Car and Driver experts measure how effectively each vehicle delivers on its core purpose, then rank them against tough competition within the same segment.

Jeff Walters, President and COO of Subaru of America, Inc., emphasized how this back-to-back recognition signifies Subaru's dedication to crafting reliable, safe vehicles for a wide range of drivers. Whether you want a sporty coupe, a crossover that tackles daily commutes, or a family-friendly SUV/wagon, Subaru strives to offer value in each category without compromising on quality or technology.
2025 Subaru BRZ: Affordable Sports Car with Serious Spirit
The 2025 BRZ earned top marks for its feather-light chassis, ultra-low center of gravity, and rev-happy boxer engine that outputs 228 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. In addition, a new "Sport" mode, exclusive to manual-transmission models, sharpens throttle response for those who crave a more visceral driving experience. Starting at $31,210, the BRZ is available in Premium, Limited, and tS trims, proving that genuine sports car dynamics don't have to break the bank.
2025 Subaru Crosstrek: Compact SUV with Big Capabilities
Subaru's best-selling SUV, the Crosstrek, secured its spot thanks to exceptional ride quality, improved interior design, and robust safety features. The 2025 Crosstrek received updates that include advanced infotainment technology, available SUBARU BOXER® engine options, and symmetrical all-wheel drive for solid traction. Each trim-Base, Premium, Sport, Limited, and Wilderness-brings its own flavor to the mix. Priced from $25,810, the Crosstrek offers an alluring balance of city-friendly size and rugged capability.
2025 Subaru Outback: Iconic Adventure Wagon
If you're seeking ample passenger space, flexible cargo capacity, and genuine off-road readiness, the 2025 Outback remains a top contender. Featuring 8.7 inches of ground clearance-9.5 inches on the Outback Wilderness-this legendary Subaru wagon is just as comfortable exploring back roads as it is cruising highways. All trims, including the Base, Premium, Limited, Touring, Onyx Edition XT, Wilderness, Limited XT, and Touring XT, deliver a potent mix of comfort, technology, and SUV-like utility. With a starting price of $29,010, the Outback continues to set the standard for all-weather driving and versatile adventure.
Editor's Choice: Why It Matters
Car and Driver states that the Editor's Choice List functions like an honor roll, guiding consumers toward vehicles most deserving of their attention. Faced with an overwhelming array of new models, buyers can look to these awards to navigate the market more easily and choose vehicles that stand out in terms of performance, features, safety, and value. In other words, it's a shortcut to finding the real automotive gems.
A Century-Long Heritage of Automotive Insight
Since 1955, Car and Driver has provided industry insights, detailed road tests, and trend analyses that help shape consumer choices. Their rigorous approach ensures that only the top-performing and most driver-focused models earn a place in these honors. From hot hatchbacks to roomy crossovers, their coverage spans nearly every corner of the auto market. According to ComScore, Car and Driver reaches 15 million unique visitors each month, reinforcing its status as a go-to voice in automotive media.
About Subaru of America
Subaru of America, Inc. is based in Camden, N.J., and stands as an indirect subsidiary of Subaru Corporation in Japan. Their North American operations distribute vehicles, accessories, and parts across more than 640 U.S. retailers. Committed to the Subaru Love Promise, Subaru of America invests in philanthropic efforts aimed at community well-being and environmental stewardship. Over two decades, Subaru has donated more than $320 million to causes close to its heart, while employees have volunteered 100,000-plus hours. From zero-landfill manufacturing plants to philanthropic events, Subaru is more than just a car company-it's a brand that seeks to create positive ripple effects nationwide.
Final Thoughts
Seeing the BRZ, Crosstrek, and Outback each earn top praise from Car and Driver demonstrates Subaru's range, from nimble sports cars to adventurous crossovers. This threefold recognition highlights the brand's goal of offering something for every driver-be it a weekend racer, a family seeking safety and space, or an off-road enthusiast. When you spot Subaru vehicles on the Editor's Choice List for the second consecutive year, you can be even more confident in choosing a Subaru for your next set of wheels.