19th Nov 2020, 14:10
The Forester 2.5XT also was impressive for its time, given that it was a relatively inexpensive family-oriented SUV that could accelerate faster than some German sport sedans. The current model is completely forgettable. The WRX still has a loyal following, I would think...
I would love for Subaru to again emphasize the performance aspects of its brand.
18th Nov 2020, 15:00
Clearly you have not driven an Impreza or Legacy turbo from the 1990s. A proper WRX STi, not the lesser models. I'm not a Subaru fanboy, but the faster Subarus from the time period were anything but near the bottom of anything; their road going and rally cars proved this the world over.
I do agree with you though that AWD on most road going cars with no decent power is useless/pointless gimmick, but it is not exclusive to Subaru, Volvo and many others had AWD systems that had problems (uneven tyre wear causing driveshaft/gearbox problems) on permanent AWD/4WD systems. Just depends what you want; if you need off road you would get a proper 4x4, like a Toyota Landcruiser, Jeep, etc etc. I wouldn't bother with any car in that regard, there are much more heavy duty vehicles for that purpose.