Why did the Subaru BRAT have seats in the back?

Why the Subaru BRAT had Seats in the Back
The Subaru BRAT had seats in the back as a strategic move to circumvent a punitive tariff on light trucks known as the Chicken tax. By adding rear-facing plastic jump seats in the cargo area, Subaru was able to classify the BRAT as a passenger car rather than a light truck, significantly reducing the costs of importing BRATs to North America. This allowed Subaru to avoid the 25% import tariff on light trucks, as passenger cars were only charged a 2.5% import tariff.
The decision to include these seats was a response to the regulatory environment at the time, particularly the import tariffs and regulations related to the classification of vehicles as passenger cars or light trucks. The seats were a strategic maneuver to navigate these regulations and reduce import costs for the Subaru BRAT.
This move was not unique to Subaru, as other car manufacturers also made similar strategic decisions to navigate import regulations and tariffs, such as Ford using a Mazda model it sold as the Courier to sidestep the rules.
The seats in the back of the Subaru BRAT were a distinctive feature that allowed the vehicle to be classified differently for import purposes, and they played a significant role in the vehicle’s unique appeal and market positioning.
Overall, the inclusion of seats in the back of the Subaru BRAT was a strategic response to regulatory and tariff challenges, allowing the vehicle to be classified as a passenger car and reducing import costs.
If you have any more questions or need further information, feel free to ask!

What pickup had seats in the bed?

In the aftermath of the oil crisis, compact vehicles, including pickup trucks, were in high demand in the United States. Subaru got into the act with the Brat, which not only had four-wheel drive but four seats — two of them mounted rear-facing in the pickup truck bed.

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.

What are trucks with back seats called?

These days they may be called a Double Cab truck, these trucks now have second-row doors for access to the rear cargo area. Despite having 2 rows of seating, an Extended Cab pickup truck wouldn’t be the ideal option for long trips, even if it can haul more passengers.

Did Subaru ever make a truck?

Does Subaru make a truck? Yes, though not anymore. Subaru, over time, released two trucks in the North American market: the BRAT and the Baja. The BRAT came about in 1978 as a plucky open-bed variant of the Leone (a model that later evolved to become the iconic Impreza) and lasted on sale until 1994.

Can you sleep in back of Subaru?

Rear Seat Arrangement
To maximise space, fold down the rear seats. The Outback’s design allows for a nearly flat surface, creating an ideal sleeping platform. Ensure you’ve cleared out any items that might create unevenness. For those seeking an enhanced sleeping experience, consider installing a bed platform.

What is the difference between a BRAT and a Brumby?

They are basically one and the same. There are small variations but they were called a Brat in Canada and the United States. In Australia, they are referred to as a Brumby.

Can you legally sit in the back of a Subaru BRAT?

In California, people can only legally ride in the cargo body of a pickup truck if there are seats and approved restraint systems. So basically, it’s illegal to ride in the body of a pickup truck because it violates the California seatbelt law.

What did Subaru BRAT stand for?

Bi-Drive Recreational All-Terrain Transporter
The Subaru BRAT pickup was a small, light utility pickup truck sold in the US from 1978 to 1987. As a response to the market demand of the times for car-like pickup trucks, Subaru vehicles produced the BRAT (Bi-Drive Recreational All-Terrain Transporter) for an audience that wanted something a little different.

How long can a Subaru sit without driving?

Experts recommend driving your car every two to three weeks to keep it in running condition. Ideally, you should not let your vehicle sit unused for more than two weeks. To prevent unnecessary repairs and ensure your vehicle is ready to go, start it up and drive it for 15-30 minutes a few times within the month.

What did Subaru used to be called?

Subaru started as an aircraft research company named Fuji Heavy Industries in 1915, however they would soon reorganize to become the chief aircraft manufacturer for Japan during World War II. After the war effort, the company pivoted towards car manufacturing, thus creating the Subaru brand.