Fun fact: About 65% of Coloradans are dog owners. We’re in the top 10 dog-owning states. That may be one reason why SUVs are so popular in Colorado. It also may partly explain why Subaru is among the most popular automotive brands in the Centennial State. 

A recent report in Car and Driver was headlined, “If Your Subaru SUV has ‘Wilderness’ in the Name, We’re Pretty Sure You’ve Got a Dog.” It offered some fun statistics:

 

• Nearly half of all Subie owners have a dog.
• Among Subaru’s Wilderness-badged vehicles – the Outback, Forester and Crosstrek – the percentage rises to 58%. 
• Subaru and Subaru dealers partner with local animal shelters and the American Society to Prevent Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) through the annual Share the Love Event. Subaru is the ASPCA’s largest corporate donor.

 

As the story points out, Subaru has donated more than $1 million to animal shelters and more than $70 million to pet charities. 

Not surprisingly, Subaru has earned popularity because of its outdoorsy – something that’s reinforced with its “Wilderness” models, Outback, Forester and Crosstrek. As the story says, “outdoor enthusiasts tend to own dogs. Outside is where all the good sticks are.” 

Image aside, there are solid reasons why Subarus appeal to dog people. Subaru Wilderness models are factory-engineered for off-roading with increased ground clearances They have Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and enhanced traction from Dual-Function X-MODE® and all-terrain tires. Exteriors have tough cladding to protect from brush and rocks, and specific Wilderness copper and black accents. 

The standard durable StarTex® high-tech material holds up to muddy paws. If your buddy likes the back of your Subaru Wilderness, there is protective seatback material.

 

• The Outback offers the choice of two engines (180-hp and 260-hp), has 9.5 inches of clearance and maximum cargo volume of 75.6 cubic feet with seats folded down.
• The 2026 Crosstrek has a standard 180-hp engine, can tow 3,500 lbs. and 9.3 inches of ground clearance. Cargo capacity is 54.9 cubic feet with the seat folded down.
• The 2026 Forester has 9.3 inches of ground clearance, 3,500 towing capacity, a 2.5-liter engine with 180 hp and 69 cubic feet of cargo space with seat folded. 

 

For everyday driving, don’t forget these Subaru Wilderness models have Subaru EyeSight safety and driver-assist technology, touchscreen infotainment and reasonable pricing. 

Visit Schomp Subaru and let us show you why your dog might love a Wilderness version of the Outback, Crosstrek or Forester.