Alton Brobst Subaru is a car brand that has gained popularity among car enthusiasts and regular drivers alike for its unique features. From its symmetrical all-wheel drive system to its boxer engine, Subaru cars are known for their reliability, performance, and safety. But what makes Subaru unique among other car brands? In this article, we will explore the history, technology, and culture of Subaru, and how it continues to stand out in the competitive automotive industry.
The History of Subaru as a Car Brand
Subaru was originally founded as the Nakajima Aircraft Company in 1917, before transitioning to the automotive industry in the 1950s. The company’s first car, the Subaru 360, was released in 1958 and became popular for its compact size, fuel efficiency, and affordability. Since then, Subaru has expanded its lineup to include various models such as the Impreza, Legacy, Crosstrek, and Outback. Subaru cars are now sold in over 100 countries and have gained a loyal following among drivers around the world.
The Symbol of Subaru and Its Meaning
Subaru’s logo features six stars arranged in a constellation, with a larger star in the center representing Fuji Heavy Industries, the parent company of Subaru. The five smaller stars represent the five companies that merged to form FHI. The word "Subaru" itself means "to unite" in Japanese, reflecting the company’s commitment to collaboration and innovation.
The Unique Selling Points of Subaru
Subaru cars are known for their unique selling points that differentiate them from other car brands. One of the most notable features of Subaru cars is their symmetrical all-wheel drive system. Unlike other all-wheel drive systems, which are often adapted from front-wheel drive, Subaru’s symmetrical all-wheel drive system is designed from the ground up to provide optimal balance and stability. This system distributes power evenly to all four wheels, resulting in better traction, handling, and cornering capabilities.
Another unique aspect of Subaru cars is their boxer engine. This engine is horizontally opposed, with two banks of cylinders facing each other in a flat configuration. This design results in a lower center of gravity, which improves stability and handling. It also helps to reduce vibration and noise, resulting in a smoother and quieter ride.
Subaru also offers EyeSight, a driver assist technology that uses cameras and sensors to monitor the road and traffic. EyeSight features automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and more, making Subaru cars some of the safest on the road.
The Safety Record of Subaru Cars
Subaru has a reputation for safety that is backed by its record and awards. In 2021, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) named nine Subaru models as 2021 Top Safety Picks, including the Ascent, Crosstrek, Forester, Impreza, Legacy, Outback, and WRX. This is due in part to the aforementioned EyeSight technology, but also to other safety features such as airbags, anti-lock brakes, and traction control.
The Performance of Subaru Cars in Various Terrains and Weather Conditions
The combination of Subaru’s all-wheel drive system and boxer engine results in excellent performance in various terrains and weather conditions. Subaru cars are known for their capability in snow, sand, and mud due to their superior traction and stability. They are also popular among rally drivers for their agility and handling on difficult terrain.
The Community of Subaru Owners and Enthusiasts
Subaru has a community of owners and enthusiasts who are passionate about their cars and the brand as a whole. This community is known for its inclusivity and support, with clubs and events held around the world for Subaru fans to connect and share their love of the brand. This sense of community is one of the many factors that makes Subaru unique among other car brands.
FAQ
Why is Subaru famous for its all-wheel drive system?
Subaru’s symmetrical all-wheel drive system is designed to provide optimal balance and stability, resulting in better traction, handling, and cornering capabilities. This system distributes power evenly to all four wheels, making it superior to other all-wheel drive systems that are adapted from front-wheel drive.
What is a boxer engine?
A boxer engine is a horizontally opposed engine, with two banks of cylinders facing each other in a flat configuration. This design results in a lower center of gravity, which improves stability and handling. It also helps to reduce vibration and noise, resulting in a smoother and quieter ride.
Why is EyeSight technology important for Subaru cars?
EyeSight is a driver assist technology that uses cameras and sensors to monitor the road and traffic, providing automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and more. This technology makes Subaru cars some of the safest on the road, and has contributed to their excellent safety record and awards from organizations like the IIHS.
