Subaru (1958 to 2016)

Subaru is a Japanese automotive manufacturer with origins dating back to 1915, originally operating as Fuji Heavy Industries before launching passenger vehicles under the Subaru name in the 1950s. The brand gained early recognition with models such as the Subaru 360, followed by globally successful platforms including the Leone, BRAT, and Legacy, but it has always differentiated itself through a consistent engineering philosophy centred on boxer engines and symmetrical all-wheel drive. This technical identity naturally led Subaru into motorsport, most notably the World Rally Championship, where the brand achieved multiple Constructors’ and Drivers’ titles and cemented its performance credibility. That rally success directly influenced some of the most celebrated Japanese performance cars ever built, many based on the Impreza, including the WRX, WRX STi, 22B STi, and P1, which are revered not only for their capability but for their cultural impact. In the Australian market, Subaru has enjoyed long-standing popularity due to its AWD focus, suitability for varied driving conditions, and strong motorsport following, with performance and rally-derived models playing a major role in the brand’s enthusiast appeal and long-term collectability.