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:

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  Just couldnt get comfortable - 2001 Subaru Legacy
  By Phylo74 - March 23 - 2:00 am

  I have always liked Subarus, especially the AWD. I had an 83GL; 91Loyale; 97Impreza; 98Outback Sport, and an 01 Legacy. However, I recently sold my Legacy after only one year and 12000 miles. Its a reliable car with great traction, it just didnt have enough leg room, the steering wheel didnt go high enough, and there is a hard bar or something just under the seat cushioning that would make my thigh numb after about 20 minutes. I now drive my 2000 Mazda Protege instead- really comfortable.

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  The MOST fun Ive had in years - 2003 Subaru Impreza
  By Chuck T - March 23 - 2:00 am

  I have owned this fun, and enjoyable vehicle (my first Subaru) for seven months now. The AWD & Turbo is more fun than my previously owned 1966, 912 Porsche 5 speed, and my Saab 99E (front drive). High altitude driving from Sacramento to Reno is astonishing In the rain: I can not think of another car sold in the USA that can keep up with it through a given course- that does not sell for $10,000 more. I honestly believe that Subaru must subsidize the WRX sales for WRC rules. Like GOOD wine, if you do not understand it or appreciate it- dont buy it. Those that do will SMILE- I DO! Everyday that I drive.

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  many grins to the mile - 2003 Subaru Impreza
  By sullietal - March 23 - 2:00 am

  Stiff chassis and solid steering make this car fun to drive. I look for road bumps that used to scare me in my Honda Accord. The railroad tracks are a real hoot. Gas mileage is lower than my Honda but the acceleration is far superior. the engine is smooth and strong.

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  Check Engine Light Horrors - 2006 Subaru Outback
  By yifinguy - March 22 - 4:10 am

  I loved my Roo until the Check Engine Light came on. First it was the O-2 sensors code that came up. After a $400 cost to replace those, then came a code indicating Random Misfire and I replaced the plugs, then came a P20296 code showing eventually that it needed a new computer which will cost over $600 for a 2nd hand one - almost $900 for a new one. You have to get it re-keyed with a new Electronic Control Module. Nickel and dime to death isnt the word for it! When those codes come up, you have no cruise either! All of this has happened within a few weeks.

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  Excellent Small SUV - 2004 Subaru Forester
  By Rich007 - March 21 - 10:00 am

  Wonderful small SUV. Fast, comfortable, solid and safe. You cant ask for much more.

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  Fun to drive - 2004 Subaru Forester
  By Mark Campbell - March 21 - 10:00 am

  Moves well in the snow is reasonably comfortable on long trips. has ample storage for a vehicle of this size. Gas mileage is horrible. The final drive ratio is far too low. 20 MPG on freeway at 80 miles per hour. Had a Passat GLX that got 26 at same cruising speed with V-6 same basic power. Reliability has been spotless thru 53K miles. Service costs have been very reasonable. Paint is not terribly chip resistant and scratch resistant not up to expectation level. One squeek in the interior since new which is due to dash and a pillar sleeve contact. Wind noise at speed. Engine noise minor. I would buy again

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  Shes Hot! - 2004 Subaru Forester
  By Everbill - March 21 - 10:00 am

  My Forester Turbo is the greatest vehicle Ive ever owned. She has lots of pizzaz, getting me in and out of traffic with ease. If I ever have to replace her it will be with another Forester Turbo.

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  ball bearings - 2004 Subaru Impreza
  By rn4nuts - March 21 - 10:00 am

  I have had two Subaru Outbacks. Have had the rear ball bearing go out several times after the warranty was over. I like the car other than that. Has anyone else had this same problem??? I wonder if the makers are aware?

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  Baja - Arriba - 2005 Subaru Baja
  By gmroper - March 21 - 10:00 am

  What a fun car to drive. Though the car has been out for 1year+, it still draws looks. Comfortable, peppy and utilitarian. Ive hauled all but the biggest cargo and had fun doing it. In town milage is great compared to other vehicles Ive driven, and though over the road could be better (I get 29mpg) it is a terrific. My wife has one as well and she likes it better than the sporty cars she has driven before. In short, a fun truck, sporty but useful. No hesitation to recommend it to anyone wanting something different.

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  Fun Practical Sleeper - 2005 Subaru Forester
  By Sleeperxt - March 21 - 10:00 am

  I have had this wagon for a little over a year now. It is one of the most practical vehicles I have ever owned. My wife drives a Sequoia. We use that truck to tow our camper and for long trips (200+ miles). Other than that, its almost always the Forester that gets the call. We have two boys and activities include Soccer and Baseball, both of which I coach, I cary lots of equip.and it all fits. Now for my payoff. I do not participate in or condone street racing!, but just up to the speed limit (50-60)this vehicle can be devistating to just about anything under the hottest offering of the Vette. AWD and a short 1st-2nd gear+250hp (Subaru understates its rating)=fast.