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Subaru has a solid lineup of vehicles tailored for active-lifestyle buyers, featuring a range of trim levels, including a number of luxurious and sporty versions. To simplify your shopping experience and navigate the diverse offerings, we've broken down all the differences in Subaru's various trim levels in order to make shopping even easier. All of the following trim levels apply to the 2021 model year with the exception of the BRZ, which is skipping 2021 and slated for a redesign in 2022.

Be sure to stop by your local AutoNation USA dealership today to check out Subaru's exciting lineup of cars and SUVs.


Subaru Base Trim

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All 2021 Subaru models come equipped with Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive even on the entry-level models. Similar to the standard AWD system, these Base trim levels boast a well-equipped array of features. This is proven by the 2021 Subaru Ascent, which comes standard with tri-zone automatic climate control, two USB charging ports for rear occupants, a seat belt reminder for the second and third rows, and Steering Responsive LED headlights.

For the 2021 model year, the Impreza, WRX, WRX STI, Legacy, Outback, Crosstrek, Forester and Ascent are all available with a Base trim level.

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Subaru Premium Trim

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For added content, Subaru offers its Premium trim level on the 2021 Subaru WRX, Ascent, Crosstrek, Forester, Impreza, Legacy and Outback. As the name suggests, the Premium adds more upscale features, which on the 2021 Subaru Forester includes a panoramic sunroof, heated front seats, push-button start and a leather-wrapped steering wheel.

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Subaru Sport Trim

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Subaru's Sport trim level is available on the Crosstrek, Forester, Impreza and Legacy, and it offers a sportier styling and added content. In addition to exclusive styling elements, some Sport trim levels actually get performance upgrades including the 2021 Subaru Impreza Sport with its unique suspension tuning and the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek Sport with its more powerful 182-horsepower 2.5-liter Boxer engine - a 30-horsepower bump from the base engine.

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Subaru Limited Trim

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For those seeking elevated luxury, the Limited trim level elevates the experience with a host of upscale amenities and advanced technology. In the 2021 Subaru Legacy Limited, this translates to features such as perforated leather upholstery, heated rear seats, push-button start, and additional safety features like reverse automatic braking and blind-spot detection. Subaru's Limited trim level is available on the Impreza, Legacy, Outback, WRX, WRX STI, Crosstrek, Forester and Ascent, and it's also the base version of the sporty 2020 BRZ coupe.

The Legacy and Outback are also available with the Limited XT trim level that adds an upgraded engine, as well as even more standard equipment like heated steering wheel and the 11.6-inch navigation system.

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Subaru Touring Trim

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Subaru's top trim offering is the Touring trim level, and for 2021, it's offered on the Ascent, Forester and Outback. This level adds features such as brown Nappa leather interior, heated and cooled front seats, a heated steering wheel, and a 180-degree front view monitor. Like the Limited XT trim, the Legacy and 2021 Subaru Outback are both offered with the Touring XT trim level that brings the more powerful 2.4-liter Boxer engine.

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Subaru tS Trim

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Although there will be no 2021 Subaru BRZ, this coupe still has plenty to offer for an extended 2020 model year. Stepping up from the base BRZ Limited, the BRZ tS brings even more style and performance to this lightweight coupe. The tS, which stands for "tuned by STI," comes exclusively in Ceramic White paint job with matte bronze wheels wrapped in Michelin Pilot Sport tires.

Red accents are found on the grille and rear bumper of the BRZ tS, and the red seat belts and side bolsters bring some sporty contrast to the interior that is decked out in black leather and Alcantara interior.

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Jeffrey N. Ross | Jan 04, 2021

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Discovering Subaru Trim Packages

What are trim level options?

A trim level is how a manufacturer identifies a vehicle's level of equipment and special features, including luxe interiors and premium sound systems. The trim level you choose can determine how much you spend, and the more features you add, the higher your sticker price can get.

How can I determine which Subaru trim package is right for me?

The best way to choose a trim package is to visit your local AutoNation USA dealership and take a few Subaru vehicles for a spin. When you can't get to the dealership, our digital showroom offers test drive reviews of popular Subaru models and a variety of trim packages.

Please see our Subaru review archive for more great test drive reviews featuring Subaru cars and SUVs.

Where can I find Subaru cars or SUVS at different trim levels?

For starters, you can enjoy our Subaru trim levels guide above to discover all of the different Subaru trim level options. Then you can head over to our Subaru inventory to see the Subaru vehicles available near you. When you're ready, you can stop by your local AutoNation USA dealership for a test drive.

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