Subaru isn't your average auto brand-its customers are as loyal as they come, and for very good reason. There are a number of Subaru features that you can't find on other vehicles, like a SUBARU BOXER® engine, or Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD). Those are just two outstanding Subaru innovations that really make Subaru special.

A Closer Look at the SUBARU BOXER® Engine-Where Flat Is Fierce

You've heard of inline engines, you've heard of the V6s and the V8s-most of our competitors like Toyota, Ford, Honda, and Mazda use one of the two-and you've probably also heard of the SUBARU BOXER® engine; but how much do you know about this fine piece of engineering? The SUBARU BOXER® is a flat-laying engine, which is only found in one other automaker's vehicles-Porsche. The SUBARU BOXER® flat-laying engine offers some of the highest fuel efficiency ratings among always-on AWD vehicles, and they also have the added advantage of being incredible long-lasting, so Middletown, CT drivers can count on Subaru now and down the road.

How is Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive Different from a Front-Wheel Based AWD System?

Other brands have their signature AWD systems, but no one else has Subaru Symmetrical AWD; while a front-wheel drive (FWD) based AWD system seems to be popular, if you compare it to Subaru's AWD system, we think you'll agree that Subaru's is just better, especially here in the sometimes-snowy Hartford area. FWD-based systems work just like a FWD vehicle until the vehicle senses slippage or loss of traction-only then does it send torque to all the wheels, or sometimes, just the one that's slipping. By contrast, Subaru Symmetrical AWD is always active, which means it isn't a reactionary system, it's a preventative system. Not only is Subaru's AWD system superior, it's also standard across the Subaru lineup-except for the BRZ, but that's only because it's a sports car!

How Does Subaru Stack Up Against the Competition? Come See for Yourself

While we're obviously in the bag for Subaru, even we can admit there are some other quality brands out there. We know that savvy shoppers from New London and Norwich, CT are keen to do some research before settling into a final decision.

Subaru's primary competitors come from brands like Honda, Mazda, Ford, Toyota, Nissan, Jeep, and a handful of others. We'll go over some of the best reasons to choose Subaru over the other guys, but expect to see some direct, model-to-model comparisons here in the future. So, if you're looking to see how the Subaru Crosstrek or the Subaru Impreza fares against its direct competition, this is where you'll find it.

Key Differences Between Subaru & Other Auto Brands, like Mazda, Honda, Ford, or Toyota

• Longevity & Dependability: Subaru builds cars to last, so you can count on your Subaru Outback or Subaru Legacy for many years down the road. In fact, of all the Subaru vehicles sold in the past 10 years, 98% of them are still on the road right now. Moreover, Subaru was named the 2018 Top Brand for Residual Value* according to ALG.
• A Long List of IIHS Top Safety Pick Winners: If you're looking for safety, look no further than the Subaru lineup. All 2018 Subaru models equipped with optional Subaru EyeSight® and Steering Responsive Headlights earned at least an IIHS Top Safety Pick rating, and some even earned the coveted Top Safety Pick+ designation.
• Fuel Efficiency: Despite offering standard always-on AWD in almost every vehicle, all Subaru models are certified Partial Zero Emission Vehicles (PZEV).
• The Subaru Love Promise: Subaru believes in making the world a better place, plain and simple. It envisions a future built on love and respect for all people, as well as for the environment. The Subaru Love Promise means a commitment to fuel-efficient vehicles and building processes, donating volunteer hours, money to worthwhile causes, and giving back to our local communities. It's just one of the ways Subaru is committed to doing the right thing, and as your local Subaru dealership, we are too.

*_{ALG named Subaru the 2018 Top Mainstream Brand for Residual Value. ALG is the industry benchmark for residual values and depreciation data (www.alg.com).}

Knock Out Some Research Right Here & See Why Subaru Often Has the Competitive Edge Over Its Rivals!

For those North Franklin drivers in the thick of their new-car search, hopefully this page can serve as a wonderful hub of research. Learn about what makes Subaru special or compare your favorite models against their rivals here, and when you feel ready, bring it on in to us at Holmgren Subaru to take the test drive in the real world. We're happy to help with any questions you might have and our low-stress sales approach won't make you feel pressured to buy.

Why Should Hartford Area Drivers Buy a New Subaru at Holmgren?

Here at Holmgren Subaru, we're proud to represent the Subaru lineup to the entire Hartford area, and we're proud to be part of the Eco-Friendly Retailer Program. Most drivers appreciate our commitment to both customer service and service to our environment. In fact, that's part of the Subaru Love Promise.

If you're ready to start the next chapter in a new Subaru car, hatch, crossover, or SUV, we want to be your one-stop shop for all things Subaru! Check out some answers to the question, Why Buy at Holmgren?, then join us in our showroom and find some reasons for yourself!