Joseph Weaver When it comes to pickup trucks, most people think of traditional American manufacturers like Ford, Chevy, and Dodge. However, there is one manufacturer that has been making a name for itself in the pickup truck market: Subaru.
Subaru is a Japanese manufacturer known for their reliable and efficient cars, but they have also been making pickup trucks for over two decades. In this article, we will take an in-depth look at Subaru’s experience as a pickup truck manufacturer, their current offerings, and how they compare to other well-known brands.
Subaru’s History in the Pickup Truck Market
Subaru’s first pickup truck model was the Brat (short for Bi-drive Recreational All-terrain Transporter) which was released in 1978. The Brat had four-wheel drive and a small truck bed, making it popular with outdoor enthusiasts and rural drivers. However, it was discontinued in 1994 due to stricter safety regulations.
Subaru’s next pickup truck model was the Baja, released in 2002. The Baja was based on the Subaru Outback platform, with additional features like a short truck bed and a rear partition that could be folded down for longer items. It was marketed as a "Sport Utility Truck" and was popular with drivers who wanted a vehicle that could handle both on- and off-road adventures. However, like the Brat, the Baja was also discontinued in 2006.
Subaru’s Current Pickup Truck Offerings
Subaru’s current pickup truck offering is the Ascent, which was released in 2021. The Ascent is a midsize pickup truck that comes with all-wheel drive and a variety of safety features, making it a versatile and reliable option for daily use and outdoor adventures. It has a towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds and can carry up to 1,500 pounds.
While the Ascent is not specifically marketed as a pickup truck, it has the features and capabilities that make it a competitive option in the market. It has a spacious interior, comfortable seating for up to eight passengers, and a variety of technology features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Ascent also has a ground clearance of 8.7 inches, making it suitable for off-road driving.
How Subaru Pickup Trucks Compare to Other Brands
While Subaru’s experience in the pickup truck market is not as extensive as other brands, their pickups have features and capabilities that set them apart. Subaru’s focus on all-wheel drive and safety features make their pickups reliable and efficient options for both daily use and outdoor adventures.
In terms of towing capacity, the Subaru Ascent falls behind some of the larger pickups on the market like the Ford F-150 or Chevy Silverado. However, for drivers who do not need to tow large loads, the Ascent’s 5,000-pound capacity is more than sufficient.
In terms of design, Subaru’s pickups stand out with their unique features like the Brat’s rear-facing seats and the Baja’s short bed. The Ascent does not have any standout design features, but it has a sleek and modern exterior that appeals to a wide audience.
Performance, Design, Safety, and Reliability
Subaru’s focus on all-wheel drive and safety features is evident in their pickup trucks. The Ascent has a variety of safety features like blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. It also has a reputation for being a reliable and efficient vehicle, with an overall reliability rating of 4 out of 5 from Consumer Reports.
In terms of performance, the Ascent has a 2.4-liter turbocharged engine that provides 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. It has a smooth and responsive ride, with good handling and traction on both on- and off-road terrain.
FAQ
Q: Does Subaru still make the Baja pickup truck?
A: No, the Baja was discontinued in 2006 and is no longer in production.
Q: What is the towing capacity of the Subaru Ascent?
A: The Subaru Ascent has a towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds.
Q: Are Subaru pickup trucks reliable?
A: Yes, Subaru pickup trucks have a reputation for being reliable and efficient vehicles.
Conclusion
Subaru may not be the first brand that comes to mind when you think of pickup trucks, but their experience as a manufacturer and their current offerings are worth considering. The Ascent is a reliable and efficient pickup truck that has all-wheel drive and a variety of safety features, making it a versatile option for daily use and outdoor adventures. If you’re in the market for a pickup truck and want a brand that combines reliability, efficiency, and innovation, Subaru is definitely worth a closer look.
