The company that’s known today as Subaru, was established in Tokyo, Japan, on July 15, 1953. The company was known as Fuji Heavy Industries after five Japanese companies joined to form one large company.
After incorporation, FHI launched its automotive sub-brand Subaru, named after the Japanese word for the Pleiades star cluster. The first Subaru car to be made was the Subaru 1500, although only 20 were built due to issues related to supply.
Here we’ll talk about Subaru, who makes them, where they’re made, and many other things related to this reputable car brand.
Where is Subaru Made?
Subaru is one of the best-known car manufacturers in the world, although it’s not among the top 10 when it comes to sales. Its cars are sold across the globe, however, manufacturing facilities are located in Japan with only one in the United States.
The Japanese manufacturing facilities are all located in Gunma, while the US manufacturing facility is located in Lafayette, Indiana.
The Subaru WRX, Forester, XV Crosstrek, STi, BRZ, and Impreza models are all made in Japan while the Subaru Tribeca crossovers, Legacy sedans, and Outback models are manufactured in Indiana.
At the moment, Subaru isn’t planning on opening additional manufacturing facilities aside from the 5 they already have, but if the demand significantly increases, it will be the only option.
Things Subaru is Known For
If you haven’t owned a Subaru before, it’s important to know that it’s a very specific car brand that has its own way of doing things. From an automotive perspective, there are a few things you should know.
Unlike most car manufacturers that use inline engines, most modern Subaru cars are fitted with a Boxer engine, also known as an opposed engine, since it has opposing cylinders on both sides of the centrally rotating crankshaft. The pistons in an inline engine move up and down, while the Boxer engine has pistons that move inward and outward.
Just like most Subaru models have a Boxer engine, an all-wheel-drive is also fitted to most models. With other card brands, one must pay extra to get AWD, but this isn’t the case with Subaru, which believes most cars should have this feature.
The AWD allows high traction and control, especially on slippery roads. It’s not something you’ll need for regular daily driving, but it can come in very handy during rain or snow. It’s also among the reasons why Subaru models are highly rated in safety tests, which has set them above completion.
Aside from fitting a specific type of engine, and making all-wheel-drive a standard option, Subaru is probably best known for one thing – its Impreza WRX STi model.
In 1992, Subaru revealed the Impreza model. Ever since the Subaru Impreza was released, it has been a reputable rally car. Automotive enthusiasts loved the Impreza but required something that offers some power. This made Subaru make a turbocharged version known as World Rally Experimental (WRX). Later, the WRX STi model was introduced into the markets with its additional power, artificial pistons, and upgraded intercooler.
When this Subaru WRX model hit the market in 2002, there was a lot of demand, and it became one of the leading models of the time. The Impreza then took off among Subaru lovers, demonstrating that drivers were looking for something to drive that’s fun and capable, but also a good choice for daily commuting.
It’s among the most sought-after models globally, especially for people hopeful of finding a powerful rally car. Young people are looking for this car to push out its maximum performance while the older generation is looking to rekindle some of the thrilling days of their youths. That’s why many types of drivers are geared by this vehicle.
Subaru in Motorsport
It’s likely that Subaru would become the manufacturer it is today even without being involved in motorsport, but it was, and it was extremely successful. Although Subaru was competing in various motorsports competitions since the 1980s, it wasn’t until 1995 that Subaru started winning these competitions. The highly modified Impreza WRX and WRX STI were driven by Rally legends such as Collin McRae and Richard Burns that got Subaru numerous WRC victories.
Currently Popular Subaru Models
Aside from some of the legendary models that Subaru released over the years, there are other models that spike interest in drivers all across the world.
Subaru Forester
There are many things to love about the Subaru Forester, like reliability and spirited performance despite the season. Also, the ordinary cutting-edge safety has made it the most secure vehicle in its class. The Forester is made for the long road ahead with unsurpassed durability and will preserve its value better than any other vehicle on the road. It’s also fitted with a number of highly helpful features which makes it a great option for both regular daily driving and off-roading as well.
Subaru Crosstrek
This is a small quasi-SUV version of the Impreza hatchback. It has a higher ride height which offers enough clearance to slosh through extremely furrowed roads. With enough space for your family and close friends, the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek is well known for its balancing space and capability.
Subaru Exiga
The Exiga isn’t a popular Subaru car: it defies everything the brand has developed over the past few years. The Subaru Exiga was made when the brand attempted to try the crossover SUV market and was launched in 2007 during the Tokyo Motor Show. Its features include a supersized panoramic roof with theatre-style seating where front occupants sit lower than the rear occupants. Leather seats and pearl white and blue trims accompany the high-rim variant.
Subaru Tribeca
The Subaru Tribeca offers surprisingly much practicality, although it’s not that exciting to drive. It comes with a 3.6L V6 and a five-speed automatic transmission, making 256hp.
2019 Subaru Outback
Although it’s a station wagon, Subaru calls the 2019 Outback an SUV. It comes with a 2.5L 4-cylinder or 3.6L six-cylinder option.
Other popular models include:
- Subaru BRZ
- Subaru Ascent
- The new Subaru WRX