Overview & Reviews

Subaru is a Japan-based automaker whose recent offerings are both practical and fun to drive. The automaker crafts vehicles whose all-wheel-drive powertrains and available turbochargers facilitate sharp performance. Incongruously, most Subaru vehicles are discreet and versatile enough to serve as competent family haulers, and the brand is known for boasting some of the best crash test scores in the automotive world.

In the early 1950s, a collection of Japanese companies joined to form Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. Its automotive division came to be known as "Subaru," which is a Japanese word meaning "unite." In 1954, the first Subaru car was unveiled. Powered by a four-cylinder engine, the P-1 (its name was later changed to the Subaru 1500) boasted a front-wheel wishbone-type independent suspension and was the first car to feature a monocoque body designed in Japan. Sales were suspended due to challenges associated with funding and support, but Subaru soon resolved its difficulties and rolled out a sibling for its first-born; the 360 was introduced in 1958. Dubbed the Ladybird because of its ladybug shape, the compact 360 proved immensely popular, and remained in production for 12 years.

The 1960s saw the launch of the first Subaru truck. Based on the Subaru 360 platform, the Sambar minitruck offered both compact dimensions (a must for Japan's crowded, narrow streets) and an extremely spacious cargo bed. The truck was soon joined by the Sambar Light Van, a compact van built for both commercial and leisure use. In 1966, the automaker rolled out the 1000, a car that holds the distinction of being the first vehicle to use the drive technology that is the linchpin of current Subaru models: a front-wheel-drive system coupled to a horizontally opposed engine. This setup offered many advantages in handling and performance. By the end of the decade, Subaru North America had been founded, and exports to the United States had begun.

Subaru started the '70s with the introduction of the GL/DL (called the Leone in other markets). The sedan (it was soon joined by a coupe and a station wagon) broke new ground by offering four-wheel-drive (4WD) capability. Up until then, 4WD had only been offered in off-road-oriented vehicles. Coveted for use in the snow and in hilly regions, the GL and DL also benefited from the increasing popularity of outdoor sports like skiing and fishing, and went on to become the world's top-selling 4WD vehicle. In 1977, Subaru rolled out the successful Brat; based on the GL, it was a small car-based pickup whose cargo bed featured a pair of jump seats. More and more, young people were seeking a vehicle designed for an outdoorsy lifestyle, and the rugged Brat was perfectly in step with their needs.

Subaru continued to offer versatile but slightly quirky vehicles through the '80s. It developed the world's first electronically controlled continuously variable transmission. The technology made its debut later that decade in a new Subaru, the tiny Justy economy car. By the end of the '80s, Subaru had given birth to the Legacy, which replaced the outgoing GL/DL (now called the Loyale in the U.S.). Available as both a wagon and a sedan, the Legacy placed an emphasis on performance.

The automaker made a name for itself in motorsports in the 1990s by being the first Japanese marque to win the Manufacturers' title at the World Rally Championship three years in a row. The Subaru family continued to grow during this decade, with the addition of the high-performance SVX, the popular Legacy-based Outback wagon and the sporty Impreza. In the late '90s, General Motors acquired a 20 percent stake in parent company Fuji Heavy Industries (FHI) with the aim of strengthening its presence in foreign markets. This affiliation didn't last long, however, and Toyota currently owns a small percentage of FHI.

Today, Subaru's lineup includes everything from compact trucks to family-friendly wagons to high-performance cars such as the WRX STi. The brand is hailed as a top pick for enthusiasts seeking vehicles that offer a shot of utility with their performance thrills.

User Reviews:

• 

  2003 Forester XS premium w/leather - 2003 Subaru Forester
  By merliech - October 17 - 10:00 am

  I love this car! A huge number of features for a great price. I actually feel like Ive purchased a luxury car. Drives great in the snow; and I love the huge sunroof. The upgraded stereo sounds great too. Handles great and I get an excellent view of the road. When I was looking at cars I also looked at the Ford Escape and the Honda CRX. I believe I made the right choice with the Forester.

• 

  My first Subaru - 2006 Subaru Forester
  By hairdog - October 16 - 11:40 pm

  I just purchased a used Subaru forester on Monday, just three days ago. I am completely surprised at the quality and power that this 4cyl has. I was driving a V6 and this is much more responsive and quicker. This is my first Subaru. I have owned nothing but American cars before. In just three days I would say that Im a convert for life, not just only based on my mere three days but on other Subaru owners that have told me their experiences. I love my Forester and cant wait to actually feel safe while driving in bad winter conditions. FOR ONCE! I highly recommend it to all. Buy a Subaru and you will not be disappointed.

• 

  From a Critic - 2007 Subaru Legacy
  By Matt - October 16 - 5:16 pm

  I tend to be critical, so I expect this is a fair review. The car is great. It has flaws, but I would buy it again. I test drove over 20 models before my purchase. I drove this car three separate times. The engine is superb for a four cylinder. A four cylinder will never feel like six, but the Legacy responds with excellence for the category. 2.5 liter, and it feels like it. Pickup is responsive and full enough to keep my ego satisfied. Handling is good - but not perfect. The steering is slightly sensitive at higher speed. The suspension is tight, it may seem rough over the potholes. It is details that make it. Great value. This is not a cookie cutter car.

• 

  Great Impressions - 2008 Subaru Impreza
  By SkyHigh - October 14 - 9:53 pm

  For the money the car cant be beat! Even with the lower fuel enconomy, Honda and Toyota dont compare. Upgrading to the Premium package is worth the extra $. Ive only put 400 miles since buying it and have yet to run above 4000 rpm (break-in period) but the engine is itching to perform! The standard AWD is perfect for Colorado weather. Seats are much more comfortable in 08 than earlier models! Great car and very happy so far!

• 

  First Subaru - Impressed - 2017 Subaru Outback
  By Ginny Todd - October 14 - 8:58 pm

  Replacing a 2011 Acura RDX - was challenged to consider a Subaru and glad I was. Ranks high for safety, economical, practical, and a good value. Very happy with my purchase of a 2017 Subaru Outback- with same features/options on the Acura RDX would cost $10,000- $15,000 more.

• 

  Under a month and in love - 2009 Subaru Impreza
  By Michael - October 12 - 10:13 am

  After owning (and loving) my Acura RSX Type S for almost 7 years I sold it and bought the 5-door WRX Premium. This car is almost perfect in my book. Its all there, utility, comfort, features, power, solid build with sex appeal. Any criticisms I have are minor at best. Its a thrill to drive. I highly recommend this car if youre even considering it. Nothing else out there equals it in its class. Pictures dont do it justice. Its a must see and must drive. And if you have the cash spring for the STI version. Thats even faster and more aggressive looking.

• 

  2002 S+ Auto - 2002 Subaru Forester
  By Nova Tony - October 12 - 10:00 am

  After two years/20K miles of driving this car, I can say its been the best value car Ive owned -- 100% reliable, very comfortable and reassuring to drive in all types of weather and any road conditions. Hairpin curves on mountain roads to interstates, the car is quick and responsive under all conditions (including the record snow in February). Were buying a 2003 to replace our other car. I test drove the 2004 Turbo, but Ive found that the normally aspirated engine gives pleanty of power for mountain and highway passing, and for me the additional turbo power is not worth the extra complexity and premium in gas consumption.

• 

  My GSPs transport vehicle - 2017 Subaru Outback
  By Anthony J Ross - October 11 - 5:04 am

  I owned a 2015 Infiniti Q70S AWD. Over time I didnt really like the AWD system. I traded for a 2017 Subaru Outback 3.6r Touring model. Its been a revelation, nicely built, quality Interior materials, continuous AWD. Gets along briskly when required, good roadholding, well modulated braking. The latest electronic safety systems are quite simply great. Its like driving with an alert Nanny ☺ Im delighted with my new Subbie, sorta looking forward to working with Winter. Should of bought a Subbie years ago. I will keep my Subbie for years.

• 

  The Best - 2008 Subaru Legacy
  By Karl - October 9 - 8:46 pm

  I waited to post a review of this car until we had time to really evaluate it. After 9 mos. & nearly 11K miles we are very satisfied. The interior is the best, period. Its design looks better than any luxury sedan on the market. Handling is very good but you give up a soft ride for it. We average about 30 mpg at 80 mph and 23 around town. Still feels solid and has been totally trouble free. We drove Audi A4, BMW 3, Jag X, Volvo S40 & S60. Simply this car felt better and looked better too. If you want an awd car that is reliable, economical, and near luxury, this is the one. Leather is nice, stereo is okay but wish it had steering mounted controls (fixed in 2009). Highly recommend.

• 

  1st Subaru ever! - 2008 Subaru Legacy
  By 1st Subaru!!! - October 6 - 11:50 am

  Just imported a Legacy. I just want to say I love it. The handling is great. Quiet, comfortable, power is just what I need. Interior is nicely laid out. Love the climate control and heated seat.