So you're ready to buy a Subaru and you've heard about these special discount programs. Maybe your neighbor mentioned saving thousands through Costco, or a friend told you about the VIP program. But which one actually puts more cash back in your pocket?
Let me break this down for you in plain English. I've spent time digging into both programs, and I'll tell you exactly what they offer, who qualifies, and which one makes more sense for your situation.
Key Takeaways
- The Subaru VIP program offers bigger discounts (typically $500-$3,000 below invoice) but requires employment connections
- Costco Auto Program provides smaller savings (usually $500-$1,500 off MSRP) but almost anyone can join
- VIP program gives you more negotiating power and flexibility with dealers
- Costco offers a simpler, no-haggle buying experiance with pre-negotiated prices
- You generally cannot combine both programs for the same vehicle purchase
- Your actual savings depend on the specific Subaru model and current market conditions
What is the Subaru VIP Program?
The Subaru VIP program is basically Subaru's way of saying "thank you" to employees, partners, and certain industry professionals. It's an insider deal that gives you access to special pricing that regular customers dont get.
Think of it like having a backstage pass at a concert. You get to skip some of the usual pricing games and walk in with pre-approved discounts.
Who Qualifies for Subaru VIP?
Here's where it gets tricky. Not everyone can waltz into a dealership with VIP pricing. You need to fit into one of these catagories:
- Subaru of America employees and their immediate family
- Employees of Subaru dealerships
- Tier 1 and Tier 2 supplier employees
- Auto industry professionals (journalists, fleet managers)
- Subaru partner organization members
- Contest winners from official Subaru promotions
The program works through a voucher system. If you qualify, you'll get a VIP certificate number that you present to the dealer.
How Much Does Subaru VIP Actually Save You?
This is the million dollar question. Or maybe the three thousand dollar question.
VIP pricing typically gets you 2-4% below dealer invoice. On a $35,000 Subaru Outback, that translates to roughly $700-$1,400 off the invoice price, which is already lower than MSRP.
For more expensive models like the Ascent, you could see savings of $2,000-$3,000 compared to what most buyers pay.
What is the Costco Auto Program?
The Costco Auto Program isn't just for Subaru. It's a service Costco offers to its members for buying new and used cars from participating dealers.
Costco partners with dealerships across the country and pre-negotiates prices with them. Then you, as a member, get access to those deals.
Who Can Use Costco Auto Program?
This one's simple. If you have a Costco membership, you're in.
- Gold Star members (basic membership) qualify
- Executive members qualify
- Business members qualify
A basic Costco membership costs $65 per year. An Executive membership runs $130 annually but gives you 2% cash back on purchases.
So if you dont already have a Costco membership, factor that cost into your savings calculation.
How Much Does Costco Save You on a Subaru?
Costco's savings are typically more modest than VIP. You're looking at $500-$1,500 off MSRP depending on the model.
The exact discount varies by:
- Which Subaru model you're buying
- Your local market conditions
- What dealer you work with
- Current manufacturer incentives
One thing to note: Costco prices are often close to what a skilled negotiator could get on their own. The real value is in the convenience and peace of mind.
Subaru VIP Program vs Costco: Side-by-Side Comparison
Let me lay out the key differences in a table so you can see everything at a glance:
| Feature | Subaru VIP Program | Costco Auto Program |
| Discount Amount | $500-$3,000 below invoice | $500-$1,500 off MSRP |
| Who Qualifies | Employees, suppliers, industry pros | Any Costco member |
| Cost to Join | Free (if you qualify) | $65-$130/year |
| Negotiation Required | Some flexibility remains | Pre-set pricing |
| Dealer Network | All authorized Subaru dealers | Select participating dealers |
| Application Process | Must obtain VIP certificate | Instant access through Costco |
| Stackable with Other Offers | Limited | Can combine with some rebates |
| Financing Options | Full flexibility | Through dealer or Costco partners |
| Trade-in Handling | Negotiate separately | Handled through process |
Breaking Down the Real Numbers
Let's get specific with some examples. According to Big Write Hook, understanding the actual dollar amounts helps you make better decisions.
Example 1: 2024 Subaru Outback
MSRP: $35,000
Invoice Price: $33,500
With VIP Program: $33,000 (3% below invoice) = $2,000 savings from MSRP
With Costco: $34,200 (pre-negotiated price) = $800 savings from MSRP
Winner: VIP saves you an extra $1,200
Example 2: 2024 Subaru Crosstrek
MSRP: $29,000
Invoice Price: $27,800
With VIP Program: $27,500 (about 1% below invoice) = $1,500 savings from MSRP
With Costco: $28,400 (pre-negotiated price) = $600 savings from MSRP
Winner: VIP saves you an extra $900
Example 3: 2024 Subaru Ascent
MSRP: $45,000
Invoice Price: $43,200
With VIP Program: $42,500 (about 1.6% below invoice) = $2,500 savings from MSRP
With Costco: $44,000 (pre-negotiated price) = $1,000 savings from MSRP
Winner: VIP saves you an extra $1,500
The Hidden Benefits Beyond Price
Money isn't everything when you're buying a car. Both programs offer some perks beyond the sticker discount.
VIP Program Advantages
Dealer respect and priority: When you walk in with a VIP certificate, dealers know you're connected to Subaru somehow. This often means better service.
Flexibility with add-ons: You can still negotiate things like extended warranties, accessories, or service packages.
No geographic restrictions: Any authorized Subaru dealer must honor your VIP pricing.
Works during shortages: Even when cars are hard to find, VIP pricing holds.
Costco Program Advantages
No-pressure experience: The dealers in the program agree to no-haggle pricing. You know what you'll pay upfront.
Additional perks: Some participating dealers throw in extras like free oil changes or accessories.
Executive member rewards: If you have an Executive membership, you earn 2% back on eligible purchases.
Wider vehicle selection: The program works with multiple brands, not just Subaru.
Which Program Offers Better Customer Service?
Here's where things get interesting.
The Subaru VIP program gives you more control but requires more work. You're still dealing with traditional dealer sales processes. You might need to visit multiple dealers, compare their additional fees, and handle all the usual car-buying steps.
The Costco Auto Program streamlines everything. You fill out a form online, get matched with a participating dealer, and they contact you with the pre-negotiated price. Less work, less stress.
For people who hate negotiating or feel uncomfortable at dealerships, Costco's approach is golden. For savvy buyers who enjoy the process and want maximum savings, VIP is better.
Can You Stack Subaru VIP and Costco Discounts?
Short answer: No.
You can't use both programs for the same vehicle purchase. Dealers won't allow you to combine the VIP certificate with Costco pricing.
However, you can combine either program with:
- Manufacturer rebates and incentives
- Special APR financing offers
- Loyalty bonuses (if you own a Subaru already)
- College graduate programs
- Military discount programs
So don't think of it as VIP versus Costco in isolation. Think about which one gives you the best base price, then add whatever other incentives you qualify for on top.
Common Mistakes People Make
After researching both programs, I've noticed some recurring errors that cost people money:
Assuming VIP is always better: In some markets during sales events, Costco prices can actually beat VIP when you factor in active rebates.
Not checking multiple Costco dealers: The program works with several dealers per area. Prices can vary slightly.
Forgetting about fees: Both programs quote vehicle price, but destination charges, doc fees, and taxes still apply. Compare the full out-the-door costs.
Ignoring timing: End of model year clearances sometimes beat both programs. Do your homework on current incentives.
Not negotiating trade-ins separately: Both programs focus on new car price. Your trade-in is a seperate negotiation in most cases.
Real Owner Experiences
I looked at forums and social media to see what actual buyers said about their experiances.
One VIP user from Colorado shared: "I saved $2,400 on my Forester compared to what my brother paid three months earlier. Same trim, same color. The VIP certificate was a game changer."
A Costco member in Texas wrote: "The process was so easy. No back and forth, no waiting around. I got a fair price and was done in two hours."
But not everyone loved their choice. A California buyer said: "I used Costco and later found out I could've gotten VIP through my sister's job. Would've saved another thousand bucks. My mistake for not researching."
Making Your Decision: VIP or Costco?
Here's my honest take on who should use which program:
Choose Subaru VIP Program if:
- You qualify for it (obviously)
- You want maximum savings
- You dont mind spending time at dealerships
- You're comfortable with some negotiation
- You're buying a more expensive model where bigger discounts matter
- You have time to shop around different dealers
Choose Costco Auto Program if:
- You don't qualify for VIP
- You value convenience over maximum savings
- You hate negotiating
- You want a predictable, transparent process
- You're already a Costco member
- You're okay with good (not great) pricing
- You have limited time for car shopping
The Bottom Line
If you're eligible for the Subaru VIP program vs Costco debate, VIP wins on pure savings almost every time. You'll typically save $800-$1,500 more than you would through Costco.
But Costco offers something valuable too: simplicity and peace of mind. For many buyers, that's worth the smaller discount.
My advice? If you qualify for VIP, use it without question. The extra savings are real and significant. If you dont qualify, Costco is an excellent option that beats walking into a dealer cold and trying to negotiate yourself.
Either way, you're getting a better deal than most Subaru buyers. And that's a win.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use Subaru VIP pricing if I work for a parts supplier?
Yes, employees of Tier 1 and Tier 2 suppliers qualify for the VIP program. You'll need to get your certificate through your company's human resources department or contact Subaru directly to verify your eligibility.
Does Costco Auto Program work for used Subarus?
Yes, the Costco Auto Program covers both new and used vehicles. However, the pre-negotiated pricing structure is typically less beneficial on used cars where prices vary more widely based on condition and mileage.
How long does a Subaru VIP certificate last?
VIP certificates are usually valid for 90 days from the date of issue. If you dont buy within that window, you'll need to request a new certificate. Make sure you're actually ready to purchase before getting one.
Will dealers try to make up the discount in other fees?
This can happen with both programs. Always ask for the out-the-door price including all fees except taxes and registration. Watch out for inflated documentation fees, dealer add-ons you didn't request, or mandatory accessories.
Can family members use my VIP eligibility?
Yes, immediate family members (spouse, domestic partner, children, parents, siblings) can typically use your VIP eligibility. You'll need to be listed on the certificate and may need to accompany them to the dealership.
Is the Costco Auto Program really no-haggle?
The vehicle price is pre-set, but you can still negotiate your trade-in value, financing terms, and any additional products or services. The "no-haggle" part only applies to the new car price itself.
Looking for more automotive buying advice? Big Write Hook offers detailed comparisons and guides to help you make informed decisions on your next vehicle purchase.