Used Subaru Cars for Sale in Australia

Subaru has built a loyal following in Australia by focusing on a clear, practical idea: build capable, reliable cars that work in the real conditions Australian drivers actually face. Symmetrical all-wheel drive across most of the range, a signature flat-four boxer engine that lowers the centre of gravity, and a reputation for durability in wet, regional, and outdoor conditions make used Subaru cars a consistent choice for buyers who want capability without compromise.

Why choose a used Subaru?

The defining feature of the Subaru range is Symmetrical AWD. Unlike on-demand or electronic AWD systems that activate only when traction is lost, Subaru's mechanical setup drives all four wheels from a longitudinally mounted central engine on a symmetrical driveline. This provides consistent, balanced handling in the wet, on gravel, and in light off-road conditions without the driver needing to do anything. It is the reason Subaru holds its ground in regional areas, coastal markets, and anywhere that gets unpredictable conditions.

Subaru's boxer engine reinforces that character: the horizontally opposed flat-four sits low in the engine bay, contributing to the planted, stable feel the brand is known for. Buying used means accessing that engineering without the steepest depreciation hit.

Common alternatives in the SUV segment include the used Mazda CX-5 and used Toyota RAV4. Subaru generally holds an advantage on standard AWD availability and clearance for buyers who need genuine all-terrain traction rather than a cosmetic AWD badge.

Popular used Subaru models at Carma

Subaru Forester

The used Subaru Forester is the family-practical core of the Subaru SUV range. It sits in the mid-size SUV segment with a noticeably upright roofline that delivers more headroom than most competitors. Later generations introduced the e-BOXER mild hybrid system, adding a degree of fuel efficiency to the naturally aspirated petrol engine. AWD is standard across all variants.

Subaru Outback

The used Subaru Outback occupies a niche it largely owns in Australia: a large wagon-crossover with genuine SUV ground clearance, AWD traction, and the load-carrying ability of a traditional estate. The XT turbo variant adds a turbocharged engine for buyers who want performance alongside practicality. It is a natural fit for long-distance touring and rural use.

Subaru WRX

The used Subaru WRX is Subaru's performance model, a turbocharged all-wheel-drive sedan with a reputation built on motorsport before it entered mainstream showrooms. The six-speed manual and sport-tuned suspension attract buyers who want meaningful driving engagement from a practical four-door car. The WRX STI, available in earlier generations, sits above it with a larger turbocharged engine.

Subaru XV

The used Subaru XV is Subaru's compact crossover: smaller and more manoeuvrable than the Forester, with the raised ride height and Symmetrical AWD that define the brand. The XV was replaced by the Subaru Crosstrek from April 2023, so the used market covers both the GP and GT generations of this platform.

Subaru Impreza

The used Subaru Impreza is the compact hatchback and sedan at the base of the Subaru range, sharing its platform with the XV. It offers a well-built, practical compact car with Subaru's engineering at a lower entry point than the Forester or WRX. It is worth considering for buyers who want Subaru reliability and build quality without the cost of a larger model.

What to look for when buying a used Subaru

Service history is the most important document to verify on any used Subaru for sale. Subaru's boxer engines are dependable when maintained on schedule, but they depend on consistent oil changes at the correct interval. On turbocharged models, regular oil changes matter even more because turbocharger longevity is directly linked to oil quality.

On older examples with EJ-series engines (broadly pre-2012), ask whether any head gasket work has been carried out: this was a documented issue on that engine family. Later FB- and FA-series engines are not associated with the same concern. On models fitted with the Lineartronic CVT, a record of fluid changes alongside oil service is a meaningful indicator of transmission care.

On any Subaru fitted with EyeSight driver assistance, check whether the windscreen has been replaced and, if so, whether camera calibration was completed. An uncalibrated EyeSight system may not function correctly.

Every used Subaru car at Carma goes through the NRMA-verified inspection and reconditioning process before listing, with condition imperfections photographed and disclosed on the vehicle page.

Frequently asked questions

Are used Subaru cars reliable?

Used Subaru cars have a strong reliability record across the Forester, Outback, and XV in particular. Later FB-series and FA-series engines are well-regarded for durability and low maintenance costs. Older EJ-series engines can develop head gasket issues at higher kilometres, so service history and verified maintenance records are the most reliable indicators of long-term reliability on any individual car.

Does Subaru's Symmetrical AWD make a difference in Australia?

Subaru's Symmetrical AWD drives all four wheels through a mechanically symmetrical driveline rather than an electronic coupling that activates only on wheel slip. Traction is available from the moment the car moves, without a sensor. For buyers who encounter wet roads, gravel, or regional conditions regularly, the difference between full-time mechanical AWD and on-demand systems is a real and practical one.

What is the most practical used Subaru for families?

The Forester is the most family-oriented Subaru: its upright roofline gives it more passenger headroom than most comparable mid-size SUVs, rear legroom is generous, and boot access is straightforward. The Outback offers more cargo volume and higher ride clearance for families who load heavily or need more road clearance. EyeSight driver assistance is available on later variants of both.

What is the difference between the Subaru Forester and Outback?

The Forester is a mid-size SUV designed around everyday family use: easier to park, better suited to urban environments, with a cabin focused on passenger comfort. The Outback is larger, with more cargo volume, greater ground clearance, and a character that suits long-distance or rural use more naturally.

Can I finance a used Subaru through Carma?

Yes. Carma's car finance is available across all used Subaru models on the platform. Applications are completed online, same-day approval is available, and checking eligibility has no impact on credit score. The lending panel covers four lenders to match a range of buyer profiles.

Is there a used Subaru suited to adventure and outdoor use?

The Outback is the strongest choice for buyers who prioritise ground clearance, towing capacity, and load space for outdoor use. The Forester suits adventure driving on gravel and dirt roads, with good clearance and AWD traction for mixed-surface touring. Both benefit from Subaru's X-Mode terrain management system on relevant variants. Buyers with sustained technical off-road requirements should evaluate whether a dedicated 4WD better fits their needs.

Browse the full range of Subaru second hand cars at Carma, or explore the broader used all-wheel drive cars range if you are comparing AWD options across makes. If you are replacing a current car, Carma's sell or trade in service manages the payout and paperwork alongside your purchase.