Subaru Brand History
The name "Subaru" comes from the Japanese name for the Pleiades star cluster (six stars), visible in the company logo. The automotive division was born in 1953, and its first car – the Subaru 360 – arrived in 1958. That tiny, bubble‑shaped kei car put Japan on wheels and established Subaru's reputation for clever engineering.
Subaru introduces the Leone with the first mass‑produced 4WD passenger car – a revolutionary move that would define the brand.
Legacy launched; becomes the first Japanese car to be built in the US (Lafayette, Indiana plant opens).
Outback debuts as the "world's first sport utility wagon," creating a new segment and huge success in North America.
Subaru discontinues the WRX STI in some markets, but the brand's focus shifts to safety and everyday reliability – without losing its soul.
Today, Subaru is synonymous with all‑wheel drive, top safety ratings, and an owner loyalty rate that leads the industry.
Fun fact: Subaru is the smallest of Japan's major automakers, but it has the highest percentage of vehicles still on the road after 10 years.