Buick vs. Subaru Reliability
Chris is Head of Content for FindTheBestCarPrice and is based out of Philadelphia, PA. As a seasoned automotive industry analyst and car enthusiast, he ensures the highest level of quality across all our content and curates our picks for the best deals each month.
Chris studied information systems and marketing at Drexel University and writes about a wide range of topics ranging from car buying tips to troubleshooting common mechanical issues.
When he’s not thinking about cars, he likes to stay in with his dog and make an “attempt” to finish a crossword puzzle (he’s not quite at the Saturday/Sunday level…yet). As a former cheesemonger, Chris still has a “sharp” passion for all things cheese, and his fridge is always loaded with it!
Originally known as the Buick Auto-Vim and Power Company, the Buick first manufactured internal combustion engines.
The term "subaru" is derived from a Japanese word meaning "unite" and refers to a cluster of six stars, also known as the Pleiades, in the Taurus constellation.
Buick occupies a position between mainstream and luxury brands. Most models are upscale and refined, featuring well-crafted interiors and user-friendly infotainment systems. However, most Buick models fall short of the latest competitors' fuel efficiency standards. Like many other car manufacturers, Buick is increasingly focusing on SUVs.
Subaru vehicles are renowned for their unstoppable performance, which is a result of their skilled engineering.
For many years, Subaru has been constructing its cars on the always-on symmetrical all-wheel drive (SAWD) system. The Forester, XV, Outback, and Impreza all come with standard Permanent SAWD.
According to RepairPal, Buick's Reliability Rating is 3.5 out of 5.0, ranking 13th out of all car brands, while Subaru's Reliability Rating is 3.5 out of 5.0, ranking it 14th out of all car brands.
This article covers Buick vs. Subaru’s reliability and explains why Buick is more reliable.
Table of Contents
- Buick vs. Subaru Reliability: Detailed Comparison
- Which Is the Best Car: Buick or Subaru?
- 1. Buick vs. Subaru Reliability: Design
- 2. Buick vs. Subaru Reliability: Repairs and Maintenance Cost
- 3. Buick vs. Subaru Reliability: Durability
- 4. Buick vs. Subaru Reliability: Engine
- 5. Buick vs. Subaru Reliability: Gas Mileage
- 6. Buick vs. Subaru Reliability: Technology
- 7. Buick vs. Subaru Reliability: Safety
- Final Verdict
- Best Car Deals by Category
Buick vs. Subaru Reliability: Detailed Comparison
| Features | Buick | Subaru |
| Design | ||
| Repairs and Maintenance Cost | ||
| Durability | ||
| Engine | ||
| Gas Mileage | ||
| Technology | ||
| Safety |
Which Is the Best Car: Buick or Subaru?
Buick and Subaru are leading car makers with unique attributes that appeal to different driving tastes, but which is the best car: Buick or Subaru?
Buick, a pioneer carmaker founded in 1899, boasts one of the longest histories of any US automaker.
Buick vehicles, known for their distinction between mainstream and luxury brands, offer upscale refinement, finely crafted interiors, and intuitive infotainment systems.
In contrast, Subaru has a well-established reputation for uncompromising reliability and relentless capability.
These unique qualities stem from the expert engineering that underpins Subaru vehicles, built on Subaru's signature always-on Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (SAWD) system.
As standard on models such as the Forester, XV, Outback, Levorg, and Impreza for decades, Subaru vehicles are considered the go-to choice for off-road enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.
Subaru is Japanese for unite, a fitting reflection of the six-star cluster, the Pleiades, which the Greeks called part of the Taurus constellation.
Concerning the reliability ratings assigned by RepairPal, Buick and Subaru have similar rankings, with both brands earning a commendable 3.5 out of 5.0 rating.
While Subaru's superior all-wheel-drive system and high-performance cars have won over many, Buick's reputation for luxurious SUVs and refinement in craftsmanship makes them an ideal choice for drivers prioritizing comfort and luxury.
1. Buick vs. Subaru Reliability: Design
Buick and Subaru both have distinctive design philosophies that reflect their brand identities.
Buick's design is marked by a refined aesthetic that exudes classic elegance, appealing to those who appreciate a more conservative style.
The exterior design is characterized by clean lines and understated luxury, which creates a timeless and sophisticated look.
The brand's interior design is equally impressive, featuring high-quality materials and intuitive technology features that enhance the driving experience.
On the other hand, Subaru's design philosophy is rooted in adapting to the continuously changing environment while remaining true to its core values. As an aerospace manufacturer, Subaru focuses on safety, dynamic performance, and efficiency in its design language.
The Dynamic x Solid design and the signature six-star emblem set Subaru apart from other automakers. Based on nature's most stable shape, the front-mounted horizontally opposed engine is a hallmark of Subaru's engineering prowess.
Winner: Subaru
2. Buick vs. Subaru Reliability: Repairs and Maintenance Cost
Buick models' maintenance and repair costs during their initial ten years of service amount to approximately $9,063, exceeding the famous brands' industry average by $2,249.
Moreover, there is a 21.13% likelihood that a Buick will necessitate a significant repair during that period.
On the other hand, Subaru models incur an average of $8,798 in maintenance and repair expenses during their first decade of service, which surpasses the famous brands' industry average by $1,984.
Additionally, the chances of a significant repair being necessary for a Subaru during the same timeframe are 20.15%.
After carefully analyzing the data, it is evident that Subaru outperforms Buick regarding maintenance and repair costs. Subaru models incur lower expenses and are less likely to require significant repairs.
Winner: Subaru
3. Buick vs. Subaru Reliability: Durability
Buick's reputation for durability is well-known, with many drivers testifying to their vehicles' longevity, with a lifespan averaging around 200,000 miles.
Some even claim to exceed the 250,000-mile milestone, provided the vehicle is well-maintained.
On the other hand, Subaru's endurance is equally impressive, with reports and tests showing that Subarus can last for more than 15 years and between 150,000 to 200,000 miles without any issues.
Subaru boasts that 98% of the cars they sold in the last ten years are still on the road today, which speaks volumes about the brand's reliability.
Furthermore, Subaru's lineup includes several best-selling cars, showcasing the brand's popularity and durability.
Winner: Buick
4. Buick vs. Subaru Reliability: Engine
Buick's engineering prowess is exemplified in their remarkable six-cylinder turbocharged engine, which unleashes a staggering 404 horsepower.
This impressive output is complemented by the sophisticated Variable Valve Timing (VVT) technology, which skillfully balances power and fuel efficiency.
The Buick's exceptional capabilities in delivering superior performance and handling are beyond reproach.
On the other hand, most of the Subaru models on the road today feature the EJ engine, which was later replaced by the F series in 2011.
While the FA and FB engines are gradually taking over the EJ engines, the EJ257 engine is still in use in the STI as of 2019.
Winner: Buick
5. Buick vs. Subaru Reliability: Gas Mileage
Buick's gas mileage is impressive, boasting 22 MPG city and 29 MPG highway thanks to advanced fuel-saving technology.
The model features an automatic start-stop system that deactivates the engine when the vehicle is stationary, significantly preserving fuel. Its streamlined design further optimizes fuel efficiency by reducing drag and turbulence.
Subaru's 2022 Impreza has the highest mpg ratings, offering up to 36 highway and 28 city mpg. The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek is the new Subaru SUV with the best gas mileage, returning up to 34 highway mpg, making it an ideal choice for adventure seekers.
Winner: Subaru
6. Buick vs. Subaru Reliability: Technology
Buick's Connected Vehicle Plan offers a range of connectivity options such as In-Vehicle Apps like Reese's Book Club and Alexa Built-in, a Remote Access Plan, and an In-Vehicle Wi-Fi Hotspot data.
The recent Buick model features a built-in Wi-Fi Hotspot, providing a reliable connection for up to seven devices.
The myBuick mobile app allows various vehicle functions to be performed remotely, making it convenient for users. The Amazon Alexa Built-in feature also offers hands-free operation for music, calls, directions, and more.
Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive technology distributes power to all four wheels, providing better traction on all roads and making driving safer and more engaging.
Unlike other manufacturers, Subaru's all-wheel-drive system is not built on a two-wheel-drive platform, making it one of the cornerstones of their vehicles.
The X-Mode with Hill Descent Control further enhances traction and grip in difficult conditions, providing a controlled and smooth driving experience.
Winner: Buick
7. Buick vs. Subaru Reliability: Safety
Buick offers many standard safety features on their newest vehicle lineup, including forward collision warning, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking, providing drivers with added protection while on the road.
Moreover, Buick equips its latest models with an advanced safety package comprising adaptive cruise control, rear cross-traffic alert, and a 360-degree camera system, which works in unison to enhance the safety measures of Buick's vehicles and provide drivers with the highest level of protection.
On the other hand, Subaru boasts its EyeSight driver assistance technology, which it introduced in 2008, as the world's first camera-based driver assistance technology.
EyeSight monitors the road ahead, detecting potentially dangerous driving situations and aiding the driver in avoiding accidents.
The technology identifies the presence of vehicles, pedestrians, cyclists, and other potential hazards up to 110m in front of the vehicle. It warns the driver audibly, prompting them to take action and even brake if necessary.
Subaru also offers several safety features in its vehicles, such as seven standard airbags, a ring-shaped reinforcement system, a lower-positioned boxer engine, reverse automatic braking, blind-spot monitoring with lane change assist, and vehicle dynamics control (VDC) to provide the highest level of safety to its drivers and passengers.
Winner: Buick
Final Verdict
The article shows that the Buick is more reliable than the Subaru. But it is essential to state that the Subaru is almost as good as the Buick as it dominated in some key areas.
