Subaru trim levels, explained

Subaru uses mostly the same trim names across its lineup, so once you know the pattern, you can read any window sticker. Exactly what each trim includes changes by model and model year, so treat this as a map, not a spec sheet.

The usual ladder

• Base: the entry point. On the 2027 Crosstrek, that means 17-inch alloy wheels and dual 7.0-inch screens with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
• Premium: the most common step up, usually a bigger touchscreen and comfort items. The 2026 Forester Premium adds an 11.6-inch touchscreen, panoramic moonroof, heated front seats and a power driver's seat.
• Sport: a sportier look and feel. On the 2026 Forester that's 19-inch bronze wheels, a gloss black grille, StarTex upholstery and re-tuned suspension.
• Limited: leather and convenience. The 2026 Forester Limited adds perforated leather-trimmed seats, a heated steering wheel and a hands-free power rear gate.
• Touring: the top comfort trim on the Forester, Outback and Ascent. Expect ventilated front seats, Nappa leather on the Outback and Ascent, and a 360-degree camera.

Trims built for something specific

• Wilderness (Crosstrek, Forester, Outback): more ground clearance, all-terrain tires, rugged styling and a 3,500-pound towing rating.
• XT (Outback): the 260-hp 2.4-liter turbo in place of the 180-hp 2.5-liter, as in the Limited XT and Touring XT.
• Hybrid (Crosstrek, Forester): a 194-hp hybrid powertrain added to a trim, as in Sport Hybrid or Touring Hybrid.
• tS (WRX, BRZ): tuned by STI, with STI-tuned dampers and Brembo brakes.
• RS (Impreza): the sportier Impreza, with 18-inch wheels, fog lights and an 11.6-inch touchscreen for 2027.
• GT (Uncharted): the top Uncharted, with dual motors, a panoramic glass roof and ventilated front seats.
• Special editions like Onyx and Bronze (Ascent) change the look, with black or bronze wheels and trim, on top of an existing trim.

Packages and option codes

Within a trim, Subaru sells packages under a two-digit option code. For example, a moonroof package on the 2027 Impreza RS (option 33) adds a moonroof, Harman Kardon audio and a power seat. That's why two vehicles with the same trim name can differ. On this site, the package shows next to the trim, such as "Premium 13 · w/ Moonroof".

The window sticker is the final word on what a specific vehicle has. Ask me for it on any unit and I'll send it.