What happened to the Subaru BRAT?

The Subaru BRAT: A Brief History
The Subaru BRAT, which stands for Bi-Drive Recreational All-Terrain Transporter, was a small truck produced by Subaru from 1978 to 1987. It was created in response to the growing demand for smaller, compact trucks in the United States. The BRAT was based on the Subaru Leone, a compact car that was eventually replaced by the Impreza. It shared its underpinnings and all-wheel drive system with the Subaru Leone station wagon.
Features and Popularity
The Subaru BRAT had a unique feature that set it apart from other trucks of its time. It was equipped with rear-facing seats in the bed of the truck, which were intended to classify it as a passenger vehicle and exempt it from the higher import tariffs imposed on trucks. However, these seats were discontinued after the 1985 model year due to safety concerns.
Although the Subaru BRAT gained a cult following, it never sold as well as Subaru had hoped. Over the course of its nine-year production run, Subaru sold approximately 100,000 units. The BRAT faced competition from larger trucks like the Ford Ranchero and Chevrolet El Camino, which were more popular among American buyers.
Discontinuation
There were several reasons why Subaru eventually decided to stop producing the BRAT. One factor was its relatively low sales numbers compared to other Subaru models. Additionally, changes in import regulations and shifting consumer preferences towards larger trucks contributed to the discontinuation of the BRAT.
Legacy and Media Appearances
Despite its discontinuation, the Subaru BRAT has left a lasting legacy. It has been featured in various forms of media, including television shows, movies, and video games. For example, a 1985 BRAT decorated in the Stars and Stripes was owned by Joy in the television show “My Name Is Earl”. In the movie “Napoleon Dynamite,” the character Rex drove a 1982 BRAT. The BRAT has also made appearances in video games such as the Forza racing series.
Possibility of a Return
While the Subaru BRAT is no longer in production, there has been speculation about the possibility of Subaru bringing back a pickup truck model. Some enthusiasts and industry observers have suggested that Subaru could consider developing a new pickup truck, following the success of smaller truck models in the market. However, as of now, there is no official confirmation from Subaru regarding the revival of the BRAT or the introduction of a new pickup truck model.
Overall, the Subaru BRAT was a unique and distinctive truck that gained a dedicated following during its production years. Despite its discontinuation, it remains a notable part of Subaru’s history and continues to be remembered by enthusiasts.

What vehicle replaced the Subaru BRAT?

The Subaru Baja
What replaced the Subaru BRAT? The Subaru Baja replaced the Subaru BRAT pickup. The Baja was also a pickup but had many comfort and capability enhancements over the BRAT.

When was the last Subaru BRAT made?

The Subaru BRAT, short for “Bi-drive Recreational All-terrain Transporter”, known outside Canada and the United States as the 284 in the United Kingdom, Brumby in Australia, and Shifter, MV, or Targa in other markets, was a pickup truck that was made by Subaru from 1978 until 1994.

How much is a Subaru BRAT worth?

A: The lowest recorded sale price was $4,000 for a 1986 Subaru Brat GL on Dec 22 2022. Q: What is the average sale price of a Subaru BRAT? A: The average price of a Subaru BRAT is $16,164.

Will Subaru make the BRAT again?

The Subaru BRAT, a beloved classic of the 1980s, is making a comeback in 2024. The new BRAT will be based on the Subaru Baja, but it will have a number of unique features that make it a true successor to the original. One of the most distinctive features of the new BRAT is its rear-mounted “roofs”.

What is the most rare Subaru?

The Subaru Impreza S201 is an ultra-rare GC8 model, with only 87 cars ever made, making it rarer than even the iconic 22B. The S201 is faster than the 22B in a straight line, with a top speed of 135 mph and 0-60 mph in 4.9 seconds.

Is there a 2024 Subaru BRAT?

And Powerful with a platform that can haul things with ease. We just want our trucks to be dependable. And able to go the extra mile. Especially on rough terrain.

Does Toyota own Subaru now?

Subaru is a subsidiary of the Subaru Corporation, formerly known as Fuji Heavy Industries, which Toyota does have a small stake in. That said, while Subaru does partner with Toyota on multiple models, such as the Solterra (built in a Toyota factory) and BRZ , it is still an independent company.

Where was the Subaru BRAT sold?

The Subaru BRAT lived a short life in the United States, spanning the years of 1978-1987. Overseas markets in Europe, Latin America, New Zealand, and Australia imported it until 1994. Outside of the U.S., it was known as the 284, Brumby, Shifter, MV, and Targa.

Why did the Subaru BRAT have seats in the back?

The seats were a ploy to circumvent a punitive tariff on light trucks known as the Chicken tax. The plastic seats in the cargo bed allowed Subaru to classify the BRAT as a passenger car, rather than as a light truck.

Is Subaru bringing out a truck?

Isn’t a stranger to pick up truck manufacturing. As the company already offered two of the arguably. Most fun to drive combat pickup trucks back in the 1980s. And 2000s. Both the Millennium Baja.