Subaru’s Highs And Lows Revealed
Subaru has always been a brand that inspires loyalty, curiosity, and strong opinions. For decades, it has delivered vehicles that promised adventure and individuality, but not every experiment has been a triumph. Some models landed with a thud, leaving buyers puzzled or disappointed, while others became legends that enthusiasts still celebrate today. If you're considering a Subaru, then stick around to see which ones are a letdown and which ones are actually worth it.
1. Subaru XT (1985)
Subaru marketed the XT as the “future car,” but the public wasn’t ready for the wedge-shaped design. Also, buyers were disappointed because its turbocharged flat-four engine was underpowered for its futuristic looks. It made poor sales in the U.S. market.
The Subaru XT Is Probably the Weirdest Subaru Ever Made by Doug DeMuro
2. Subaru Justy CVT (1987)
While the Justy was one of the first cars in the U.S. to use a continuously variable transmission (CVT), it was slow and unreliable. The tiny 3-cylinder engine left drivers frustrated, as it struggled to reach highway speeds.
Riley from Christchurch, New Zealand on Wikimedia
3. Subaru SVX (1992)
With only 230 horsepower, the SVX disappointed enthusiasts expecting sports-car performance. Sales were disappointing, too, with only about 14,000 units sold in the U.S. between 1992 and 1997. Despite its commercial flop, it has since gained a cult following.
Riley from Christchurch, New Zealand on Wikimedia
4. Subaru Baja (2003)
The Baja was marketed as a mix between a car and a truck. However, it failed because it wasn’t practical enough in either role. Its built-in bed extender was innovative but rarely used, and during its entire production run, fewer than 30,000 units were sold.
5. Subaru Tribeca (2006)
A controversial “airplane-inspired” grille turned off buyers and critics alike, and the cramped third row made it uncompetitive in the midsize SUV market. Subaru originally called it the “B9 Tribeca,” and today, it’s remembered mostly for its awkward front design.
order_242 from Chile on Wikimedia
6. Subaru Leone (1970s U.S. Market)
Known for rust problems that plagued early Subaru models in the U.S., the Leone’s engines were underpowered compared to rivals, making it unappealing on American highways. But even though it had flaws, it helped Subaru gain a foothold in the U.S. market.
7. Subaru 360 (1968 U.S. Debut)
Considered unsafe in U.S. crash tests, the 360 earned the nickname “Not Acceptable” from Consumer Reports in 1969. Also, a tiny two-stroke engine struggling to go faster than 60 mph made it impractical for U.S. roads.
1968 Subaru 360 by Charrua NYC
8. Subaru GL-10 Turbo (1985)
The GL-10 Turbo suffered from severe turbo lag and was plagued by unreliable electronics. Its optional air suspension often failed and left owners with costly repairs. Subaru marketed it as a “luxury” model, but it never lived up to that image.
1985 Subaru GL 4wd Turbo Traction Wagon 🔥🦄🔥 by J Farries
9. Subaru Impreza 2.5 RS (2000 U.S. Market)
Owners of the 2.5 RS were frustrated because it had frequent head gasket issues with its 2.5-liter engine. Also, having the turbocharged WRX in Japan but not in the U.S. disappointed American buyers. However, collectors seek clean examples today.
2000 Subaru Impreza 2.5 RS Sedan | Retro Review by MotorWeek
10. Subaru Legacy Diesel (2008 Europe)
Plagued by engine reliability issues, including crankshaft failures, the Legacy Diesel faced emissions challenges in Europe, limiting its appeal and lifespan. This was Subaru’s first diesel engine, and it was never sold in the U.S., which made it a rare Subaru for American enthusiasts.
2008 Subaru Legacy. Start Up, Engine, and In Depth Tour. by MegaRetr
Moving from the disappointments, let’s go over to the ones that still impress many.
1. Subaru WRX STI (2004 U.S. Debut)
The 2004 WRX STI became an instant legend. It flaunted a 300-horsepower turbocharged engine and rally-proven all-wheel drive, and the giant rear wing became an icon. Also, it introduced U.S. buyers to Subaru’s full rally pedigree with aggressive styling and world-class handling.
2. Subaru Outback (1995)
One of the first successful crossover wagons, the Outback combined car comfort with SUV-like ground clearance, and helped cement Subaru’s image as the brand for adventurous outdoorsy buyers. The model was so successful that it replaced the Subaru Legacy wagon in many markets.
3. Subaru Forester XT (2004)
Packing a turbocharged engine with over 210 horsepower, the Forester XT was one of the fastest compact SUVs of its time. Its performance and practicality made it a sleeper hit among enthusiasts, and it won Motor Trend’s SUV of the Year in 2009.
4. Subaru BRAT (1978)
The BRAT blended car and truck design with Subaru’s signature 4WD, and this made it a quirky yet capable vehicle. Unusual rear-facing jump seats bolted into the bed made it famous, and Ronald Reagan owned a BRAT on his ranch, adding celebrity rep.
5. Subaru Legacy GT (2005)
Rivaling European sports sedans, the 2005 Legacy GT featured a 2.5-liter turbocharged engine producing 250 horsepower. Its understated styling and performance balance made it one of Subaru’s most respected sleeper cars. Motor Trend praised it as a bargain alternative to BMW sedans.
2005 Subaru Legacy GT Review by Shooting Cars
6. Subaru WRX (2002 U.S. Launch)
American buyers found affordable turbocharged rally performance, with 227 horsepower and AWD, in the WRX. The success of this one built the foundation for Subaru’s performance reputation in the U.S. It also starred in video games like Gran Turismo.
7. Subaru Impreza 22B (1998)
With only 400 units built worldwide, the 22B was a special edition celebrating Subaru’s rally dominance. 399 units sold out in less than 48 hours in Japan. It had flared fenders, a wider stance, and upgraded suspension for rally-like handling.
8. Subaru Crosstrek (2013)
The Crosstrek consistently ranks among Subaru’s best-selling models worldwide. Thanks to its affordable price, AWD capability, and versatile crossover size, it became a runaway hit. Owners often modify them with roof tents and bike racks, boosting the model’s “adventure” image.
9. Subaru WRX STI S209 (2019 U.S. Only)
This was the most powerful Subaru ever sold in the U.S. market. It was limited to just 209 units, each hand-built with a 341-horsepower engine. Despite its $65,000 price tag, all 209 units sold out quickly.
Subaru STI S209 | Justifying a 70k Price Tag by savagegeese
10. Subaru Forester (1997)
Forester's boxy, practical design and AWD system made it a hit with families as well as outdoor enthusiasts, and winning multiple safety awards further cemented its popularity. The original Forester pioneered the compact crossover SUV segment, blending car handling with SUV capability.
