Alton Brobst When you see the distinctive Subaru logo, you might not think too much about the meaning behind it. But for those in the know, the six-star cluster that adorns each Subaru represents an important part of the brand’s history and identity. In this article, we will take a closer look at what the stars on the Subaru badge mean, and how they relate to the brand’s values.
Subaru History: Origins of the Logo
The Subaru brand has a long and fascinating history that spans back to the 1950s. Originally, it was a division of the Japanese transportation conglomerate, Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. Subaru produced its first car, the Subaru 1500, in 1954. The name "Subaru" comes from the Japanese name for the Pleiades star cluster, which is also known as the Seven Sisters. It’s no coincidence that the iconic six-star cluster in the Subaru logo is a nod to this stellar association.
The Pleiades Star Cluster and Subaru’s Identity
The Pleiades or Subaru constellation is one of the most recognizable star clusters in the sky. The six brightest stars in the group are often referred to as the "Subaru Six." Their significance to the brand is clear in the logo. The six stars are clustered together to form a distinct and identifiable shape that represents both the constellation and the sense of unity and teamwork that the brand values.
The Symbolic Meaning Behind Each Star Configuration
The stars on the Subaru logo are not just randomly arranged. The specific configuration of the stars is intended to represent the different values that the brand embodies. From the top left to the bottom right, the stars symbolize the following concepts:
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Pleasure: Emphasizes the joy and excitement of driving.
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Reliability: Reflects Subaru’s commitment to producing dependable and long-lasting vehicles.
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Durability: Stresses the brand’s tradition of engineering quality vehicles that are rugged and tough.
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Safety: Represents Subaru’s dedicated focus on safety and protection for both drivers and passengers.
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Fuel Efficiency: Highlights Subaru’s commitment to producing eco-friendly vehicles with excellent fuel efficiency.
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Performance: Represents the brand’s focus on producing vehicles with outstanding performance and handling.
Evolution of the Subaru Logo
As with any brand, the Subaru logo has undergone several changes over the years. However, the six-star configuration has remained constant throughout its evolution. The most significant change took place in 2003 when Subaru redesigned the badge and introduced it in all markets worldwide. The change improved the overall appearance of the badge but retained the same core elements of the six stars in a blue oval background.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the Subaru logo based on?
A: The six-star cluster in the Subaru logo is based on the Pleiades or Subaru constellation, which is a prominent feature of the night sky.
Q: What does the Subaru logo symbolize?
A: The stars on the Subaru logo represent the values of pleasure, reliability, durability, safety, fuel efficiency, and performance.
Q: How has the Subaru logo changed over the years?
A: The Subaru logo has undergone several changes over the years, with the most significant redesign occurring in 2003. However, the six-star configuration has remained as a constant throughout its evolution.
Conclusion
The stars on the Subaru badge may seem like a simple decoration, but they represent a rich history and a deep sense of meaning that is central to the brand’s identity. From the Pleiades constellation that inspired the logo to the six-star configuration that embodies the values of the brand, the Subaru logo is more than just a symbol. It is a representation of the Japanese automaker’s commitment to producing vehicles that are dependable, safe, durable, and fun to drive.
