Subaru is a Japanese automaker known for its all-wheel drive vehicles. The company's name is derived from the Japanese word for "star cluster," a reference to the six stars in the Subaru logo. Subaru is a division of Fuji Heavy Industries (FHI), a conglomerate that also produces aircraft, engines, and other industrial products.
Subaru was founded in 1953 as a manufacturer of aircraft engines. In 1954, the company began producing its first car, the Subaru 360. The 360 was a small, rear-wheel drive vehicle that was powered by a two-cylinder engine. In 1961, Subaru introduced its first all-wheel drive car, the Subaru Leone. The Leone was a revolutionary vehicle that offered improved traction and stability in all conditions. Subaru's all-wheel drive system quickly became a popular feature on its cars and trucks.
Today, Subaru is a global automaker that produces a wide range of vehicles. The company's most popular models include the Impreze, Forester, Outback, and Legacy. Subaru is also known for its performance vehicles, such as the WRX and STI. The company has a strong following among enthusiasts who appreciate its cars' all-wheel drive system, reliability, and affordability.
Who Makes Subaru
Japanese automaker, all-wheel drive vehicles.
- Founded in 1953.
- Division of Fuji Heavy Industries.
- First car: Subaru 360 (1954).
- First all-wheel drive car: Subaru Leone (1961).
- Popular models: Impreza, Forester, Outback, Legacy.
- Performance vehicles: WRX, STI.
- Strong following among enthusiasts.
- Known for reliability and affordability.
- Global automaker.
Subaru is a respected automaker that produces high-quality vehicles that are known for their all-wheel drive system, reliability, and affordability. The company has a strong following among enthusiasts who appreciate its cars' performance and practicality.
Founded in 1953.
Subaru's history can be traced back to 1917, when Chikuhei Nakajima founded the Nakajima Aircraft Company. The company manufactured aircraft engines and airplanes during World War II. After the war, the company was forced to diversify its operations, and in 1953, it established Fuji Heavy Industries (FHI).
- FHI's Automotive Division:
In 1953, FHI established its automotive division, which would later become Subaru. The division's first project was to develop a small, affordable car for the Japanese market.
- Subaru 360:
In 1954, Subaru introduced its first car, the Subaru 360. The 360 was a tiny, rear-wheel drive vehicle that was powered by a two-cylinder engine. Despite its small size, the 360 was a popular seller in Japan, thanks to its low price and good fuel economy.
- All-Wheel Drive:
In 1961, Subaru introduced its first all-wheel drive car, the Subaru Leone. The Leone was a revolutionary vehicle that offered improved traction and stability in all conditions. Subaru's all-wheel drive system quickly became a popular feature on its cars and trucks.
- Global Expansion:
In the 1960s and 1970s, Subaru began to export its cars to other countries. The company's first major export market was the United States. Subaru's cars quickly gained a reputation for being reliable and affordable, and the company soon became a popular choice among American consumers.
Today, Subaru is a global automaker that produces a wide range of vehicles. The company's cars are known for their all-wheel drive system, reliability, and affordability. Subaru has a strong following among enthusiasts who appreciate its cars' performance and practicality.
Division of Fuji Heavy Industries.
Fuji Heavy Industries (FHI) is a Japanese conglomerate that manufactures a wide range of products, including aircraft, engines, and industrial machinery. Subaru is a division of FHI, and it is responsible for the company's automotive operations.
- Aircraft Manufacturing:
FHI has a long history of manufacturing aircraft. The company produced aircraft engines and airplanes during World War II, and it continues to manufacture aircraft components today. FHI is also a major supplier of parts for the Boeing 787 Dreamliner.
- Industrial Machinery:
FHI manufactures a wide range of industrial machinery, including engines, generators, and construction equipment. The company's industrial machinery is used in a variety of industries, including manufacturing, mining, and construction.
- Automotive Division:
Subaru is FHI's automotive division. The division was established in 1953, and it is responsible for the design, development, and production of Subaru vehicles. Subaru is known for its all-wheel drive vehicles, which are popular for their performance and practicality.
- Other Businesses:
FHI also has a number of other businesses, including a logistics company, a financial services company, and a real estate company. The company's diverse range of businesses helps to reduce its reliance on any one industry.
FHI is a major Japanese corporation with a long history of innovation. The company's products are used in a wide range of industries, and its Subaru division is one of the most popular automakers in the world.
First car: Subaru 360 (1954).
The Subaru 360 was a tiny, rear-wheel drive vehicle that was powered by a two-cylinder engine. Despite its small size, the 360 was a popular seller in Japan, thanks to its low price and good fuel economy.
- Innovative Design:
The 360 was a revolutionary vehicle for its time. It was one of the first cars to feature a monocoque body, which made it lighter and more fuel-efficient than traditional body-on-frame vehicles. The 360 also had a transversely mounted engine, which allowed for more interior space.
- Simple and Reliable:
The 360 was designed to be simple and reliable. It had a simple two-cylinder engine that was easy to maintain. The car also had a simple suspension system that was well-suited for Japan's rough roads.
- Affordable and Fuel-Efficient:
The 360 was very affordable, making it a popular choice for first-time car buyers and families on a budget. The car was also very fuel-efficient, which was important in Japan, where gasoline prices were high.
- Popular Seller:
The 360 was a huge success in Japan. It was the best-selling car in the country for three consecutive years, from 1958 to 1960. The car was also exported to other countries, including the United States.
The Subaru 360 is an important car in the history of the company. It was the first car that Subaru ever produced, and it helped to establish the company's reputation for building affordable, reliable, and fuel-efficient vehicles.
First all-wheel drive car: Subaru Leone (1961).
In 1961, Subaru introduced its first all-wheel drive car, the Subaru Leone. The Leone was a revolutionary vehicle that offered improved traction and stability in all conditions. Subaru's all-wheel drive system quickly became a popular feature on its cars and trucks.
The Leone's all-wheel drive system was a major breakthrough in automotive engineering. It was the first time that an automaker had offered all-wheel drive on a passenger car. The system used a viscous coupling to distribute power to all four wheels, providing excellent traction on slippery or uneven surfaces.
The Leone was also a very capable off-road vehicle. It had a high ground clearance and a sturdy suspension system that allowed it to tackle rough terrain. The Leone was also very popular with farmers and other rural residents who needed a vehicle that could handle all types of road conditions.
The Leone was a huge success for Subaru. It helped to establish the company's reputation for building reliable and capable all-wheel drive vehicles. The Leone also helped to popularize all-wheel drive in general, and today, it is a common feature on many types of vehicles, including cars, SUVs, and trucks.
Subaru's all-wheel drive system is one of the company's most important innovations. It has helped to make Subaru a leader in the all-wheel drive market, and it is one of the reasons why Subaru vehicles are so popular with consumers around the world.
Popular models: Impreza, Forester, Outback, Legacy.
Subaru has a number of popular models, including the Impreza, Forester, Outback, and Legacy. These models are known for their all-wheel drive system, reliability, and affordability. They are also popular with families and outdoor enthusiasts.
The Impreza is a compact car that is available as a sedan or hatchback. It is a popular choice for first-time car buyers and families. The Impreza is known for its affordability, fuel efficiency, and safety features.
The Forester is a compact SUV that is known for its versatility and off-road capabilities. It is a popular choice for families and outdoor enthusiasts. The Forester has a spacious interior, a large cargo area, and a comfortable ride.
The Outback is a midsize SUV that is known for its ruggedness and all-weather capability. It is a popular choice for families and people who live in areas with harsh winters. The Outback has a spacious interior, a large cargo area, and a comfortable ride.
The Legacy is a midsize sedan that is known for its comfort, safety, and reliability. It is a popular choice for families and commuters. The Legacy has a spacious interior, a large trunk, and a comfortable ride.
These are just a few of Subaru's popular models. The company also produces a number of other vehicles, including the WRX, STI, Crosstrek, and Ascent. Subaru is known for its commitment to quality and innovation, and its vehicles are popular with consumers around the world.
Performance vehicles: WRX, STI.
Subaru is also known for its performance vehicles, the WRX and STI. These cars are based on the Impreza platform, but they have been heavily modified for performance. The WRX and STI are popular with enthusiasts who enjoy driving fast and handling challenging roads.
The WRX is the more affordable of the two models. It is powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 268 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. The WRX comes standard with a six-speed manual transmission, but a CVT is also available. The WRX has a sport-tuned suspension and a limited-slip differential, which help to improve handling and traction.
The STI is the top-of-the-line performance model from Subaru. It is powered by a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 310 horsepower and 290 lb-ft of torque. The STI comes standard with a six-speed manual transmission. The STI has a stiffer suspension, larger brakes, and a more aggressive aerodynamic package than the WRX. It also has a driver-selectable center differential that allows the driver to adjust the power distribution between the front and rear wheels.
The WRX and STI are both very capable performance cars. They offer exhilarating acceleration, sharp handling, and precise steering. They are also very practical, with spacious interiors and large trunks. This makes them a good choice for enthusiasts who want a car that is fun to drive but also suitable for everyday use.
Subaru's performance vehicles are a testament to the company's engineering prowess. The WRX and STI are two of the most popular performance cars on the market, and they offer an exhilarating driving experience that is sure to put a smile on your face.
Strong following among enthusiasts.
Subaru has a strong following among enthusiasts who appreciate its cars' all-wheel drive system, reliability, affordability, and performance. Subaru enthusiasts are often active in online forums and clubs, where they share their love of the brand and their cars.
- All-Wheel Drive:
Subaru's all-wheel drive system is one of the best in the industry. It provides excellent traction and stability in all conditions, making Subaru cars a popular choice for people who live in areas with snow, rain, or rough roads.
- Reliability:
Subaru cars are known for their reliability. They are consistently ranked among the most reliable cars on the road by consumer magazines and organizations.
- Affordability:
Subaru cars are generally more affordable than cars from other Japanese automakers, such as Toyota and Honda. This makes them a good choice for budget-minded consumers.
- Performance:
Subaru's performance vehicles, the WRX and STI, are very popular among enthusiasts. These cars offer exhilarating acceleration, sharp handling, and precise steering. They are also very practical, with spacious interiors and large trunks.
Subaru enthusiasts are a passionate group of people who love their cars. They appreciate Subaru's commitment to quality and innovation, and they are proud to drive a car that is different from the mainstream.
Known for reliability and affordability.
Subaru cars are known for their reliability and affordability. This makes them a good choice for consumers who are looking for a car that is both dependable and budget-friendly.
Subaru's reliability is consistently ranked among the best in the industry by consumer magazines and organizations. For example, Subaru was ranked as the most reliable car brand in the U.S. by Consumer Reports in 2023. Subaru vehicles also have a high resale value, which means that they hold their value well over time.
Subaru cars are also very affordable, especially when compared to cars from other Japanese automakers, such as Toyota and Honda. This makes them a good choice for budget-minded consumers. Subaru offers a variety of models to choose from, so there is sure to be a car that fits your needs and budget.
Subaru's commitment to reliability and affordability has helped to make the company a popular choice for consumers around the world. Subaru cars are a good value for the money, and they offer peace of mind knowing that you are driving a reliable vehicle.
If you are looking for a car that is reliable, affordable, and fun to drive, then Subaru is a great option. Subaru cars offer a variety of features and benefits that make them a good choice for consumers of all ages and lifestyles.
Global automaker.
Subaru is a global automaker that sells its cars in over 100 countries around the world. The company has manufacturing plants in Japan, the United States, and Thailand. Subaru also has a joint venture with Chinese automaker Chery, which produces Subaru cars for the Chinese market.
Subaru's global sales have been growing steadily in recent years. In 2022, the company sold over 1 million vehicles worldwide. Subaru is particularly popular in North America, where it is the sixth-best-selling Japanese automaker. The company is also popular in Europe and Asia.
Subaru's global success is due to a number of factors, including its strong brand image, its reliable and affordable cars, and its commitment to innovation. Subaru is also known for its excellent customer service.
Subaru is a major player in the global automotive industry. The company's cars are known for their quality, reliability, and affordability. Subaru is also a leader in the development of new technologies, such as all-wheel drive and hybrid powertrains.
Subaru is a company with a bright future. The company is well-positioned to continue its global growth in the years to come. Subaru is a company that is committed to building high-quality cars that meet the needs of consumers around the world.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about Subaru:
Question 1: Who makes Subaru cars?
Answer 1: Subaru cars are made by Fuji Heavy Industries (FHI), a Japanese conglomerate that also manufactures aircraft, engines, and other industrial products.
Question 2: Where is Subaru headquartered?
Answer 2: Subaru's headquarters are located in Tokyo, Japan.
Question 3: When was Subaru founded?
Answer 3: Subaru was founded in 1953.
Question 4: What is the origin of the Subaru name?
Answer 4: The Subaru name is derived from the Japanese word for "star cluster," a reference to the six stars in the Subaru logo.
Question 5: What is Subaru's most popular model?
Answer 5: Subaru's most popular model is the Outback, a midsize SUV that is known for its versatility and all-weather capability.
Question 6: Is Subaru a reliable car brand?
Answer 6: Yes, Subaru is known for its reliability. Subaru vehicles consistently rank among the most reliable cars on the road by consumer magazines and organizations.
Question 7: Is Subaru an affordable car brand?
Answer 7: Yes, Subaru cars are generally more affordable than cars from other Japanese automakers, such as Toyota and Honda.
Closing Paragraph for FAQ
These are just a few of the most frequently asked questions about Subaru. If you have any other questions, please feel free to contact your local Subaru dealer.
In addition to the FAQ section above, here are a few tips for Subaru owners and enthusiasts:
Tips
Here are a few tips for Subaru owners and enthusiasts:
Tip 1: Keep up with your maintenance schedule.
Subaru vehicles are known for their reliability, but like all cars, they need regular maintenance to stay in top condition. Be sure to follow the maintenance schedule in your owner's manual.
Tip 2: Use high-quality parts and fluids.
When you need to replace parts or fluids in your Subaru, be sure to use high-quality parts and fluids that meet Subaru's specifications. This will help to keep your car running smoothly and reliably.
Tip 3: Take advantage of Subaru's warranty.
Subaru offers a comprehensive warranty on its vehicles. Be sure to take advantage of this warranty if you have any problems with your car.
Tip 4: Join a Subaru club or forum.
There are many Subaru clubs and forums online and in local communities. These clubs and forums are a great way to connect with other Subaru owners and enthusiasts, and to learn more about your car.
Closing Paragraph for Tips
By following these tips, you can help to keep your Subaru running smoothly and reliably for many years to come.
Subaru is a great choice for consumers who are looking for a reliable, affordable, and fun-to-drive car. Subaru offers a wide range of models to choose from, so there is sure to be a car that fits your needs and budget.
Conclusion
Subaru is a Japanese automaker that is known for its reliable, affordable, and fun-to-drive cars.
The company has a long history of innovation, dating back to its founding in 1953. Subaru was the first automaker to offer all-wheel drive on a passenger car, and it continues to be a leader in the development of new technologies.
Subaru's most popular models include the Impreza, Forester, Outback, and Legacy. The company also produces a number of performance vehicles, such as the WRX and STI.
Subaru is a global automaker that sells its cars in over 100 countries around the world. The company is known for its strong brand image, its reliable and affordable cars, and its commitment to innovation.
If you are looking for a car that is reliable, affordable, and fun to drive, then Subaru is a great choice.
Subaru offers a wide range of models to choose from, so there is sure to be a car that fits your needs and budget.
Thank you for reading!