5 Ways Subaru Gets Stronger: Why Modern Models Are Built For Extreme Longevity

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The question of whether a Subaru "gets stronger" is one of the most intriguing in the automotive world, often leading to deep dives into engineering, metallurgy, and long-term durability. As of December 21, 2025, the answer is a resounding yes—but not in the way you might think. A car's horsepower doesn't magically increase over time; instead, modern Subaru vehicles are engineered to gain strength in the critical areas of structural integrity, component reliability, and overall longevity, ensuring they maintain peak performance far longer than their predecessors. This focus on long-term strength is why the brand consistently ranks as a top choice for dependability.

This article will break down the five most significant engineering advancements that prove the Subaru lineup—including models like the Forester, Outback, and WRX—is fundamentally stronger than ever before. We will look past the common misinterpretation of the phrase (and briefly address the curiosity about the anime character "Subaru" from Re:Zero) to focus on the tangible, updated facts about the vehicles' improved durability and reliability, which have earned Subaru the top spot in recent reliability rankings.

1. The Subaru Global Platform (SGP): A Foundation of Unprecedented Strength

The introduction of the Subaru Global Platform (SGP) starting in 2017 was the single most important step in making the entire vehicle lineup structurally stronger. The SGP is not just a new chassis; it is a unified, highly optimized architecture that underpins nearly every new model, including the Impreza, Crosstrek, Forester, Outback, Ascent, and WRX.

This platform directly addresses the core question of "getting stronger" by significantly improving the vehicle's structural rigidity and crash energy absorption.

Key Strength Enhancements of the SGP:

  • Increased Rigidity: The SGP is between 70% to 100% stiffer than previous Subaru platforms. This massive increase in rigidity reduces body flex, leading to better handling, a quieter cabin, and less stress on welds and components over the vehicle's lifespan.
  • Enhanced Impact Energy Absorption: The platform is engineered to improve impact energy absorption by 40%. This means in the event of a collision, the chassis can safely absorb and dissipate more energy, protecting occupants and making the vehicle "stronger" in terms of safety.
  • Durability and Longevity: Higher rigidity means less vibration and wear on suspension components, bushings, and the body structure itself. This engineering choice is a direct investment in the vehicle's long-term durability, a key factor in Subaru's high resale values.

2. The FA24 Engine: Stronger Internals for Higher Performance

For performance enthusiasts and long-term owners, the new generation of Subaru engines, particularly the turbocharged 2.4-liter FA24 (found in the WRX, Ascent, Outback XT, and Legacy XT), represents a major leap in strength and reliability compared to older EJ and even early FA/FB series engines.

Subaru learned valuable lessons from previous engine generations, resulting in the FA24 being designed with stronger components right from the factory.

FA24 Durability Advancements:

  • Stronger Cylinder Walls: The architecture of the FA24 features stronger cylinder walls and a more robust overall block design, which is crucial for handling the increased boost and power output of modern turbocharging.
  • Improved Reliability: While no engine is without its initial issues (early FA24 versions in the BRZ/GR86 have seen some oiling concerns under extreme conditions, for example), the overall consensus is that the FA24 is a more reliable and durable platform than the older FA20 and EJ series, particularly regarding common issues like head gasket failures.
  • Direct Injection Benefits: The use of direct fuel injection in the FA24 allows for more precise fuel delivery, reducing the likelihood of pre-ignition and detonation, which are major causes of internal engine damage and weakness over time.

3. Top-Tier Reliability Ratings: A Statistical Measure of Strength

A vehicle's strength is ultimately measured by its ability to withstand the rigors of daily driving without failure—its reliability. In this metric, Subaru has demonstrated a clear and continuous improvement, culminating in recent top-tier rankings.

For the 2024 and 2025 model years, independent consumer organizations have placed Subaru at the very top of the automotive reliability charts, a statistical confirmation that the brand's engineering philosophy is working.

Subaru's Reliability Strength (2024–2025):

  • Consumer Reports' Top Brand: Subaru was named the 2025 Best Overall Automotive Brand and one of the Most Reliable Brands by Consumer Reports, surpassing many long-time competitors.
  • Fewer Recalls and Consistent Components: The brand's strategy of using consistent, well-tested engine and transmission combinations for several years (e.g., the Lineartronic CVT and the FB/FA engines) means that manufacturing kinks are worked out, leading to fewer long-term issues for owners.
  • High Durability Score: The high reliability scores are a direct result of improved manufacturing processes, rigorous quality control, and an engineering focus on durability and longevity, allowing many Subarus to reach 200,000 miles or more.

4. Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and Boxer Engine Synergy

Subaru's signature Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (S-AWD) system and the horizontally opposed BOXER engine are foundational to its design, and their combined effect contributes to a "stronger" vehicle in terms of handling and component wear.

The unique flat design of the BOXER engine allows it to be mounted lower and further back in the chassis, creating a lower center of gravity than traditional inline or V-shaped engines.

How the Core Components Add Strength:

  • Improved Balance: The low center of gravity significantly improves vehicle balance and reduces body roll. This enhanced control minimizes stress on the tires, brakes, and suspension components, which directly translates to a longer lifespan for these parts.
  • S-AWD Efficiency: The S-AWD system ensures power is delivered to all four wheels equally. This reduces wheel spin and wear, especially in adverse conditions, making the vehicle "stronger" in its ability to maintain traction and control.
  • Reduced Wear: Better balance and control mean the driver is less likely to push the vehicle to its limits during routine driving, reducing long-term strain on the drivetrain and chassis.

5. Addressing the Curious Misinterpretation: Does Subaru Natsuki Get Stronger?

A frequent search query related to "does Subaru get stronger" is a curious crossover from the popular anime and light novel series, Re:Zero – Starting Life in Another World. The main character, Subaru Natsuki, is known for his unique ability, "Return by Death," which allows him to rewind time after he dies.

While the automotive brand is getting stronger through engineering, the fictional character's strength is primarily mental and strategic.

Fictional Strength vs. Automotive Strength:

  • Mental Fortitude: The character Subaru Natsuki does not gain physical strength or typical magical powers like other characters. His true strength comes from the mental fortitude and emotional resilience he develops from repeatedly experiencing traumatic events and learning from his mistakes.
  • The Power of Knowledge: His ability grants him knowledge of future events, which is his most powerful asset—a strategic strength rather than a physical one.

In short, whether you are talking about the car or the character, "getting stronger" is about continuous, strategic improvement: the car through its platform and engine, and the character through his mind and experience.

Conclusion: Subaru's Strength is Engineered Longevity

The answer to "does Subaru get stronger" is a definitive yes, based on the latest engineering and reliability data from 2025. The strength is not a sudden burst of power but a calculated, generational improvement in durability. The shift to the Subaru Global Platform, the introduction of the more robust FA24 engine, and the brand's consistent top-tier reliability rankings all confirm that modern Subarus are built to maintain their structural integrity and performance capability for a significantly longer lifespan. This commitment to longevity is the ultimate measure of a truly strong vehicle.

5 Ways Subaru Gets Stronger: Why Modern Models Are Built for Extreme Longevity
does subaru get stronger
does subaru get stronger

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