Exactly. Same can be said for SUVs. By the time I was looking for one to replace my 2003 CRV (a "compact" SUV) it had a smaller footprint than the HRV (Honda's "sub-compact" SUV). At this rate I'll need to buy a "super-sub-compact" SUV in 15 years just so it'll fit in my garage.
Yup I loved the older ranger I had they they remade it into a f150 basically. I liked it because the old ranger was small. If I want a bigger truck I’d go get one of the 20 molded offered.
It was the small size that killed those trucks. The EPA gave emissions exemptions to trucks over a specific weight and it killed small trucks as they couldn’t comply to the regulations.
True. An older Ford F250 parked next to my 2019 Ford Ranger the other day and other than being taller and extended cab, the size was almost the same. I remember full size trucks being even smaller in the 60s and 70’s.
A scooby without a Boxer!!!!! Sacrilegious!!!!!! There is a massive opportunity here for subaru to use the boxer diesel twin turbo here, with front and rear lockers, low COG, use the Toyota hilux 4x4 running gear & traction control - this would be a weapon (Ford rangers are now going small engine - 2.2L ish twin turbo engines like this).... they could even use the H6 in a 6 cylinder option...
I believe these rumors are false. Subaru builds practical vehicles, That is why I have had so many and still drive them today. I would immediately buy a 2 door Brat. BUT it would have to be a Subaru Boxer AWD, That's the whole point. Really Really want a manual transmission also. A small utility car with a bed and a hitch that's exactly what we want. Lots of trucks out there to choose from, none fit this category.
I'd love to see a new Baja/BRAT. But if rebadged Toyotas is the future of Subaru, I fear for Subie's future. Big hard NO with Toyota drivetrains and AWD systems. Ugh.
As a Baja 5 speed turbo owner (without a cap) I can tell you what the hype is. The baja actually gets en ej255/257 from the 04 STI. You can swap the ecu and instantly get 250ish hp. You can lift it or lower it and it's a neat unique look each time. They are appreciating in value. Yes the bed is lack luster and on the small side. I have personally put a pallet of flooring on my trailer and a half pallet in the bed and it did wonderful. I've taken it offroading to go camping. I've sat in the bed and watched fireworks. Taken a nap in the bed. The list is as long as your imagination and creativity and daringness. A subaru/ toyota collaboration would be nice to bring the baja/brat back but I think it ultimately will kill the hopes of the subaru "trucklet" community as it's not what made the baja and brat great. What made the baja so awesome is it's ability to do just about everything. The little dog with a big fight feeling when you park next to a 3500 diesel. That turbo engine and the proportions of the baja made it special. My only wish is it came with a low range gear or a 6 speed STI trans so it wasn't so nerve racking for people like me who have 500+hp bajas.
@mooseinabox6321 say again? I'll be happy to show you the ecu in my floorboard.... baja have a catless up pipe as well and the TMIC doesn't change anything performance related other than BATs. So no different than running an STI on an 80 degree day vs a 75 degree day. The only issues with an 04 STI ecu is you lose cruise control in the baja.
@@blacktater1hill691 Yes it will start and run but the Baja has a TD04 and an STI has a VF39. Completely different turbos with different power bands. Baja does not have a catless uppipe from the factory and you’re welcome to argue that all you want. 04-06 Baja and 04-05 FXT had EJ257s technically catted uppipes. 06-08 FXT had a true EJ255 with an air pump and catless uppipe.
@@mooseinabox6321 You are correct the 04-06 Baja came with a catted uppipe. Part number is 44614AA030. The engine itself is generally physically the same as the 04-06 EJ257, but there are differences to the overall package as you noted.
There was a 2% import tax on passenger vehicles, and 20% import tax on trucks. That's why they put the seats in the back. The Brat was imported as a passenger vehicle.
Sir Subaru! I own a Cross trek 2024 Wilderness, I love and watch all your videos, and you help me in many ways get it. FOR SURE, If I was a Subaru Rep. from Japan and we rebranded the BRAT, I would have one personalized and dedicated to you and your channel. Keep up the good work, your tips and information are priceless. Hope, someone from Subaru can see this! Thank you for all your good work, keep it going!
I could see a boxer hybrid being a reality. They have to produce it anyway for their current line up. The AWD could be a crutch in this case so perhaps a Boxer/Hybrid mated to a Toyota trans and transfer case.
I soooooo hope so. I've been saying they should bring one back based on the Ascent ever since they launched it. Even if it is Outback based, would still be awesome. The Maverick, Ridgeline, and Santa Cruz have all proven they had a place. I feel the Subaru pickup is also all the more appealing with the lower CoG and great AWD system. Plus the new FA24 can tow or haul quite a bit of weight! If Subaru would bring back the Baja and STI their brand image would skyrocket among diehards and enthusiasts, even if sales were not through the roof.
Subaru’s branding is closely tied to their AWD Boxer layout. If they do a BAJA or Brat it has to really have those attributes. Anything else can only be called a Toyota Stout.
I had a '78 Brat. I loved it! I beat it up in the Mojave Desert and it just kept going. I eventually sold it to get a Bronco. The Brat is the ONLY vehicle I've ever had, that I regretted getting rid of. If they bring it back, the only way I'd be interested in it, is if it has the Boxer engine and Subaru's drive train. Went back to Subaru in 2010 with a Forester. Drive an Outback now. I want a Subaru, not a Toyota.
You have one thing right, the Maverick and Santa Fe are not small or “mini” trucks, they’re just open back SUVs. If you can’t put a dirt bike in the back, it’s not a truck.
Okay, hear me out on my rant. I have a 2014 ram 1500 Laramie. I love the truck and it hasn't caused me any real issues. Recently I have come to need a smaller vehicle to drive in and out of town, or drive my mother to appointments in the city, and work trips, where a truck is just too large. About almost 6 months ago, I bought a lightly used 2023 Outback touring XT. It's a really nice vehicle, and a good family car, I can appreciate it in the New England weather. If there was a Baja available, I would have bought that instead, and maybe even got rid of my truck. I use the truck just for the home, when I have to make runs to the dump for yard debris, recycle, garbage, etc. The Baja would be fine for that, plus I could get a 4-ft trailer for it. That being said, for me to get a Baja, it would have to have a Subaru driveline with symmetrical all-wheel drive. Anyway, that's just my opinions and thoughts on the matter.
Same here- but I actually did just sell my 2020 Bighorn since I didn't need it as much for hauling anymore. I still want a bed for using on my property and have been looking used Bajas and other smaller pickups that aren't rusted out but haven't come across anything worth the asking price.
A vehicle with bed and canopy allows gas cans,chainsaws etc to be transported without gas smell in car if there is slight spillage or seepage and still be in a semi secured space.
I remember car-based pickups being popular back in the late 90's, they were great for light hauling on farms and for contractors to haul tools around. Way more fuel efficient than the chassis based dedicated light trucks, and the reduced weight made them a helluva lot of fun to drive empty, especially if the brake compensator got stuck and sent too much force to the rear brakes... I had one that I could parallel park by driving nose first into a space and getting out and sliding/bumping the rear into position. So much fun.
Wow a Cosmo 😊 I came so close to buying one of those back in my early 20’s. Very luxurious inside and I had a thing for the rotary (still do). Unfortunately it was during the gas crisis with odd/even rationing and the Cosmos’s gas mileage was not good. Bought something else. A very rare car in the US with the bigger 13B rotary engine.
Maverick no longer uses the hybrid for the base model.Yes indeed ! I love the Brat and Baja. Would love to have one of either one. A small utility truck for our market I think would be great. I'd be most people who drive pickups never use them anymore than putting groceries in the bed.
@@michaelmartin2276 You really don't know what you're talking about. The Hybrid had been the base engine until 24. Then they started charging for it. You may be thinking about the Ecoboost is no longer available with FWD.
My next statement is 💯% true. If Subaru resurrects the BAJA it will be my next vehicle. But for the love of all Scooby snacks put a boxer under the hood and lockers and as much power and torque as the laws of physics will allow keep the price reasonable and Subaru you have your next customer 👍🏽😎🤟
Just came across an old Baja at a local shop. 4000 bucks. It was a bit much with 200,000 miles, oil leaks everywhere and no maintenance history. I offered 1000 due to all the issues and rust. Still waiting on a response.
I Owned two BRATs and loved them, one got stolen but the other one still goes, my dad still drives it. If they will have a new one I am definitely buying it. I looked into the Mavric a lot and it is the prefect size and price but it is a FORD and I prefer Subaru :)
Correction on my last statement or an addendum lol. If they put the power train that they had in the last gen forerunner with all its off road goodness. But with Subaru style Oh yea I’ll take one please!!
I of course know you’re right, if, and that’s a BIG If, the Baja comes back, it’ll just be a rebadged Toyota. What would make far more sense to me if I was in charge, would to build a new Baja off the Ascent platform. Why Subaru hasn’t done this yet is beyond me, they literally invented the platform, and now ford/hyundai are capitalizing on it, and they’re selling quite well. I’ve drive both, the Santa Cruz is wonderful. Where they both missed the mark though is not having a bulkhead passthrough for long items, something Subaru figured out 2 decades ago.
I'll add my "voice" to the sentiment that if they're going to do a Brat, Baja or both it would be silly to do it with anything other than a Subaru boxer / Symmetrical AWD powertrain. If they don't want to do a different powertrain for the Toyota Scout, then use the boxer there, too. The GR86 has the same boxer engine as the BRZ, so it's not like there isn't any precedent. In my opinion, the Brat is the more obvious choice since it was more successful and would be more unique.
I'd love to have a 2.5L or 2.4T crewcab pickup based on a Crosstrek, towing 3500lb or more, but I couldn't justify a pickup. I get more utility out of a 4dr hatchback and a trailer. A convertible Forester with a tailgate would be pretty versatile.
All I can say is I have consistently noticed Subaru all wheel drive do things a that most others can’t I still remember being floored watching a subie doing a hill climb from a rolling start and going over a hill that Ford dodge and Chevy trucks were having a time getting up mind blown
If Subaru brings back the Brat or Baja as a hybrid why would they not base it on the upcoming Forester Hybrid? Which is supposed to have a flat four and Symmetrical AWD; this is according to Subaru's own press releases and website.
I’d love to see an 4wd high clearance truck from Subaru. Something with a bed, that can tow a moderate load and with a higher stock clearance than the current line up.
I bought an ‘03 Baja as soon as it hit the market, and it’s still my daily driver. It may be near the end, so now would be a great time for Subaru to release a new model
I love my 2006 baja. It’s a great car.im a relatively new Subaru owner. I had to fix the sloppy gearshifter and put a new coil plugs and wires but it runs like a brand new one now.that bed is really handy. I like it much better than my old 2002 Chevy tracker and that’s a good car too
Baja camper shell: The Baja bed is a wet/dry space separate from the cab. Muddy hiking gear, muddy dogs, a pallet full of durians -- you can keep it out of the passenger cabin. The cap just provides security vs an open bed. Plus you can take it on and off. Personally I wouldn't buy a camper shell for any truck but they serve a purpose.
I love my Baja!! A brat would be amazing, but the Baja does the trick. I have a camper shell. Yes, when I use it I'm turning my Baja into an Outback...but an Outback can't turn into a small truck. :)
Not interested if it’s just a rebadged Toyota. Had a couple Corolla’s (2004 & 2011) and while mechanically reliable everything else just fell apart especially interior trim and any electrical switch/knob/lever. Worst cars for road noise and I haven’t been impressed by any of Toyota’s newer stuff that I’ve rode or driven. Been very happy with our 2016 outback which has been miles ahead in terms of fit and finish compared to the Toyotas in my opinion. Also love the boxer engines. If they can’t bring it back as a proper Subaru then I’d rather they just didn’t bring it back at all.
I have been looking at the Hyundai Santa Cruz.. I am not a fan of the Maverick styling. But I would love to see a Subaru option. with a turbo boxer and symmetrical AWD (with a manual transmission... i mean at this point i am just day dreaming so might as well go all in.) I have test driven a Forester Wilderness and an Outback Wilderness. I prefer the Forester but i really like the turbo power in the outback. Enjoyed the video!
Would love a brat but only with the symmetrical AWD and a boxer engine. Have you seen the Subaru brumby mighty car mods restored with a forester drive line for Subaru's 50th anniversary in Australia. Very cool.
How about a GR Corolla powerplant with a Hybrid addition and Subarus AWD with different versions, The Baja being the offroad variant and the Brat being the street truck to compete with the Maverick Lobo
I’ll one up you 😆 Give me a Subaru mini van about the size of the Ascent with all removable seats, completely flat load floor, symmetrical all wheel drive and a Wilderness version. PLEASE do incorporate the Toyota D4S port injection system. DI only sucks.
I have a 2023 crosstrek standard shift that I bought after shopping round and watching your channel. Looking to do an oil change on the differentials and gear box. Is the front differential hooked up to the manual gearbox, or is it separate system?
Australia mentioned! 💖 They actually sold the Brumby for a bit longer here, into the early '90s I think, alongside much newer vehicles like the first-gen Legacy. It was a different time back then I suppose. But it speaks to how beloved the Subaru Brumby was.
Have had Baja Auto trans.Turbo since new 2006-129K miles, still love it. Replaced Turbo once it blew from the banjo bolts clogging. Hope they build new one with better access to the spark plugs
When? I’m patiently waiting for a light duty truck, hybrid, awd. I’m not going to be rock crawling, but I want the winter traction and we’ve got roads where a little extra summer traction is helpful too.
My uncle has a 78 Brat in the wonderful 70's brown! It would be great if Subaru brought back the Brat with t-tops! Anyone think I am crazy wanting Subaru to bring back the t-tops in a new Brat! I once owned a SVX way back in the day.
Brat owner, added a 84 GL center lamp, camper top, but the seats mounts were removed by a previous owner. I may have a lead on a Brat. I'm looking for an ignition switch.. Long story.
What made the Brat great was 4wd and those rear facing seats for the cool kids. With safety and fuel economy standards these days I don’t see either of those options coming back. Baja was cool but only if you were a fly fisherman or something where you had stinky or hella dirty gear you wanted separately stored from the main cab. Other than that the Baja was kind of a waste of space utility. Having said that if Subaru started offering seat back protection as an option along with the trunk weathermats then we’d basically have a canopied Baja. All in all I’d love to see more compact trucks other then the hideous Ford Maverick and Subaru would make a great one if they tried!
Makes me wonder how hard would it really be to cut out the trunk windows on a legacy or outback and move the lift gate up to right behind the rear seats then just take out the cloth interior stuff, make a wooden bed liner, then some other fitting and stuff to make a Baja lookalike
UNrelated question.. Any suggestions on where to obtain the High Torque CVT fluid that is called for in the 3.6R? It seems that using the green CVT fluid is not recommended.... Any help is appreciated. Thanks.
from reliable roumers there will be 2 models with trims in each. one hybrid and one pure gasoline the pure is the STI and the hybrid being the "WRX" style the STI will ONLY have offerings of manual/CVT while the hybrid will only be exclusivly auto. the STI will also be over 400hp and possibly nearing 500 territory factory on the FA platform.
Been saying this since they brought out an Ascent. They can use that platform, just like the Pilot/ Ridgeline. Hurry up Subaru/ Toyota. The Maverick needs competition
Recently rented “ compact” pickup truck for a midweek visit to Yosemite that also dropped enough snow to close some of the Mt roads.Long story short/ hated driving every mile. The forester would have been “more aware” of the road conditions/ had a way better comfort level and if stranded during a road closure- could easily fold down the second seat and sleep in. Would not buy any mini pickup and if won in a contest- would take the cash amount.
No boxer engine and no symetrical AWD does not make it very interesting. A much better version would be if Subaru could just make a 2 door Crosstrek or Outback with a longer bed and add hybrid stuff to it.
I could settle for a Toyota engine and Hybrid setup, but with the Subaru symmetrical all wheel drive, otherwise NO. Would be better with a 2.0 Boxer turbo engine and hybrid.
I have read $8000 so ya got to have one. I am an old guy would want a no frills machine. This will probably never happen but will keep researching till then I will be happy with my low mileage 2000 Forester.
I’m about 3 years from purchasing a Honda Ridgeline. Sure hope Subaru resurrects a truck with the X-Drive system. I would give it a strong look along side the Honda.
I had subarus for 14 years and just switched to toyota hybrid and love it. Its a AWD corolla but after watching the video on the roller set up the system sucks. I hope to not need it in winter. Even thought I love it I would switch quick if they brought back the Brat.
I would love for Subaru to come out with the Baja in 2025. It would be easiest for them to just take an Outback and change the rear end to be a pick-up bed.
With the high demand of the Maverick, a new Brat could totally be successful. The Ridgeline and Santa Cruz are still looking for their own mainstream appeal though
I've been saying for a couple of years now that subaru needs to bring back the baja or brat. With the popularity of the maverick and the santa cruz, there is definitely a market for it. However, without a boxer under the hood, I don't see it working with current subaru people. No boxer, no subie.
I nearly bought a Baja in 2003, but the dealer apparently thought I wasn't serious or something, so I bought a Saturn Ion instead. The Ion is long gone, but if I had bought the Baja, I would probably still have it today. As much as I like Toyota (I have a 1990 4Runner) I don't think I would by a re-badged Toyota if it didn't have the Subaru drive system and I really don't want a hybrid anything.
Smaller truck or car/trucks are selling well. What I what is a modern Kei truck slightly bigger with a decent engine. Basically the size of Japanese trucks in the 70’s and 80’s. My first truck was a 1979 Toyota and it was a great size.
Owned a 86 Brat, built a custom rack for kayaks. Loads of CV boot issues since the exhaust was right under it. 2 person small trucks are not really made any more, which is a shame.
The bigger question is,.... will it come in manual transmission?
There is a market for smaller trucks because the mid-size trucks are the size of what a full-size truck used to be.
Exactly.
Same can be said for SUVs. By the time I was looking for one to replace my 2003 CRV (a "compact" SUV) it had a smaller footprint than the HRV (Honda's "sub-compact" SUV). At this rate I'll need to buy a "super-sub-compact" SUV in 15 years just so it'll fit in my garage.
My neighbor got a new regular truck and it won’t even fit in the garage 😂 stock too not lifted
Yup I loved the older ranger I had they they remade it into a f150 basically. I liked it because the old ranger was small. If I want a bigger truck I’d go get one of the 20 molded offered.
It was the small size that killed those trucks. The EPA gave emissions exemptions to trucks over a specific weight and it killed small trucks as they couldn’t comply to the regulations.
True. An older Ford F250 parked next to my 2019 Ford Ranger the other day and other than being taller and extended cab, the size was almost the same. I remember full size trucks being even smaller in the 60s and 70’s.
A scooby without a Boxer!!!!! Sacrilegious!!!!!! There is a massive opportunity here for subaru to use the boxer diesel twin turbo here, with front and rear lockers, low COG, use the Toyota hilux 4x4 running gear & traction control - this would be a weapon (Ford rangers are now going small engine - 2.2L ish twin turbo engines like this).... they could even use the H6 in a 6 cylinder option...
I believe these rumors are false. Subaru builds practical vehicles, That is why I have had so many and still drive them today. I would immediately buy a 2 door Brat. BUT it would have to be a Subaru Boxer AWD, That's the whole point. Really Really want a manual transmission also. A small utility car with a bed and a hitch that's exactly what we want. Lots of trucks out there to choose from, none fit this category.
It needs to have Subaru 4-wheel drive.
I'd love to see a new Baja/BRAT. But if rebadged Toyotas is the future of Subaru, I fear for Subie's future. Big hard NO with Toyota drivetrains and AWD systems. Ugh.
The new Baja might be based on the XV
We wouldnt want Subaru to have the reliability of a Hilux 🙄
As a Baja 5 speed turbo owner (without a cap) I can tell you what the hype is. The baja actually gets en ej255/257 from the 04 STI. You can swap the ecu and instantly get 250ish hp. You can lift it or lower it and it's a neat unique look each time. They are appreciating in value. Yes the bed is lack luster and on the small side. I have personally put a pallet of flooring on my trailer and a half pallet in the bed and it did wonderful. I've taken it offroading to go camping. I've sat in the bed and watched fireworks. Taken a nap in the bed. The list is as long as your imagination and creativity and daringness. A subaru/ toyota collaboration would be nice to bring the baja/brat back but I think it ultimately will kill the hopes of the subaru "trucklet" community as it's not what made the baja and brat great. What made the baja so awesome is it's ability to do just about everything. The little dog with a big fight feeling when you park next to a 3500 diesel. That turbo engine and the proportions of the baja made it special. My only wish is it came with a low range gear or a 6 speed STI trans so it wasn't so nerve racking for people like me who have 500+hp bajas.
you can't just swap the ecu. the turbo and intercooler are different and the STI has a catless uppipe
@mooseinabox6321 say again? I'll be happy to show you the ecu in my floorboard.... baja have a catless up pipe as well and the TMIC doesn't change anything performance related other than BATs. So no different than running an STI on an 80 degree day vs a 75 degree day. The only issues with an 04 STI ecu is you lose cruise control in the baja.
@@blacktater1hill691 Yes it will start and run but the Baja has a TD04 and an STI has a VF39. Completely different turbos with different power bands. Baja does not have a catless uppipe from the factory and you’re welcome to argue that all you want. 04-06 Baja and 04-05 FXT had EJ257s technically catted uppipes. 06-08 FXT had a true EJ255 with an air pump and catless uppipe.
@@mooseinabox6321 You are correct the 04-06 Baja came with a catted uppipe. Part number is 44614AA030. The engine itself is generally physically the same as the 04-06 EJ257, but there are differences to the overall package as you noted.
There was a 2% import tax on passenger vehicles, and 20% import tax on trucks.
That's why they put the seats in the back. The Brat was imported as a passenger vehicle.
The chicken tax.
More reasons why taxes are a scam.
It’s 2.5% and 25%
Sir Subaru! I own a Cross trek 2024 Wilderness, I love and watch all your videos, and you help me in many ways get it. FOR SURE, If I was a Subaru Rep. from Japan and we rebranded the BRAT, I would have one personalized and dedicated to you and your channel. Keep up the good work, your tips and information are priceless. Hope, someone from Subaru can see this! Thank you for all your good work, keep it going!
If I wanted a yota, I'd buy one.
There's been nothing in my driveway but Subi.
Not changing now.✅
Someone a block over from us has a yellow Baja! Makes me smile.
@wendymontie5660 the one I was looking at was yellow at some point in it's life.
I loved my BAJA. It was great for carrying my military equipment.
I could see a boxer hybrid being a reality. They have to produce it anyway for their current line up. The AWD could be a crutch in this case so perhaps a Boxer/Hybrid mated to a Toyota trans and transfer case.
I soooooo hope so. I've been saying they should bring one back based on the Ascent ever since they launched it. Even if it is Outback based, would still be awesome. The Maverick, Ridgeline, and Santa Cruz have all proven they had a place. I feel the Subaru pickup is also all the more appealing with the lower CoG and great AWD system. Plus the new FA24 can tow or haul quite a bit of weight! If Subaru would bring back the Baja and STI their brand image would skyrocket among diehards and enthusiasts, even if sales were not through the roof.
Subaru’s branding is closely tied to their AWD Boxer layout. If they do a BAJA or Brat it has to really have those attributes. Anything else can only be called a Toyota Stout.
So So True!!!!!!!!!!
I had a '78 Brat. I loved it! I beat it up in the Mojave Desert and it just kept going. I eventually sold it to get a Bronco. The Brat is the ONLY vehicle I've ever had, that I regretted getting rid of.
If they bring it back, the only way I'd be interested in it, is if it has the Boxer engine and Subaru's drive train.
Went back to Subaru in 2010 with a Forester. Drive an Outback now.
I want a Subaru, not a Toyota.
Had an '80 BRAT...loved that vehicle.
You have one thing right, the Maverick and Santa Fe are not small or “mini” trucks, they’re just open back SUVs. If you can’t put a dirt bike in the back, it’s not a truck.
I am so excited for this car!…. Truck?….. This thing!
Okay, hear me out on my rant. I have a 2014 ram 1500 Laramie. I love the truck and it hasn't caused me any real issues. Recently I have come to need a smaller vehicle to drive in and out of town, or drive my mother to appointments in the city, and work trips, where a truck is just too large. About almost 6 months ago, I bought a lightly used 2023 Outback touring XT. It's a really nice vehicle, and a good family car, I can appreciate it in the New England weather. If there was a Baja available, I would have bought that instead, and maybe even got rid of my truck. I use the truck just for the home, when I have to make runs to the dump for yard debris, recycle, garbage, etc. The Baja would be fine for that, plus I could get a 4-ft trailer for it. That being said, for me to get a Baja, it would have to have a Subaru driveline with symmetrical all-wheel drive. Anyway, that's just my opinions and thoughts on the matter.
Same here- but I actually did just sell my 2020 Bighorn since I didn't need it as much for hauling anymore. I still want a bed for using on my property and have been looking used Bajas and other smaller pickups that aren't rusted out but haven't come across anything worth the asking price.
Needs to be ALL Subaru.
Keep it under 35k and they are gonna be selling like hot cakes.
A vehicle with bed and canopy allows gas cans,chainsaws etc to be transported without gas smell in car if there is slight spillage or seepage and still be in a semi secured space.
I remember car-based pickups being popular back in the late 90's, they were great for light hauling on farms and for contractors to haul tools around. Way more fuel efficient than the chassis based dedicated light trucks, and the reduced weight made them a helluva lot of fun to drive empty, especially if the brake compensator got stuck and sent too much force to the rear brakes... I had one that I could parallel park by driving nose first into a space and getting out and sliding/bumping the rear into position. So much fun.
Who wants a Subaru that doesn’t have a boxer? That’s part of the Subaru appeal
Grow up kid
Exactly! No FLAT I say FUCK THAT!
That's like having a piston powered Rx7, 8, or Cosmo. Nobody wants thst shit.
People that complain about the boxer are hilarious. What is the reason for disliking them?
Wow a Cosmo 😊 I came so close to buying one of those back in my early 20’s. Very luxurious inside and I had a thing for the rotary (still do). Unfortunately it was during the gas crisis with odd/even rationing and the Cosmos’s gas mileage was not good. Bought something else. A very rare car in the US with the bigger 13B rotary engine.
One more day then I take delivery of my 1998 Subaru Sambar truck in Huntsville, Texas.
Maverick no longer uses the hybrid for the base model.Yes indeed ! I love the Brat and Baja. Would love to have one of either one. A small utility truck for our market I think would be great. I'd be most people who drive pickups never use them anymore than putting groceries in the bed.
What are you talking about? You can go to the 2025 builder and get an XL hybrid. You can even build an XL hybrid AWD.
@fun0537 as I stated, the turbo is no longer the base engine . That's what I am talking about !
@@michaelmartin2276 You really don't know what you're talking about. The Hybrid had been the base engine until 24. Then they started charging for it. You may be thinking about the Ecoboost is no longer available with FWD.
@@fun0537 ok, whatever.
I LOVED my 2003 Baja! It looked like a sandal but was so functional 🎉
My next statement is 💯% true. If Subaru resurrects the BAJA it will be my next vehicle. But for the love of all Scooby snacks put a boxer under the hood and lockers and as much power and torque as the laws of physics will allow keep the price reasonable and Subaru you have your next customer 👍🏽😎🤟
Just came across an old Baja at a local shop. 4000 bucks. It was a bit much with 200,000 miles, oil leaks everywhere and no maintenance history. I offered 1000 due to all the issues and rust. Still waiting on a response.
I Owned two BRATs and loved them, one got stolen but the other one still goes, my dad still drives it. If they will have a new one I am definitely buying it.
I looked into the Mavric a lot and it is the prefect size and price but it is a FORD and I prefer Subaru :)
...I still want a 91 Subaru XT turbo 5-speed.
Correction on my last statement or an addendum lol. If they put the power train that they had in the last gen forerunner with all its off road goodness. But with Subaru style Oh yea I’ll take one please!!
I of course know you’re right, if, and that’s a BIG If, the Baja comes back, it’ll just be a rebadged Toyota. What would make far more sense to me if I was in charge, would to build a new Baja off the Ascent platform. Why Subaru hasn’t done this yet is beyond me, they literally invented the platform, and now ford/hyundai are capitalizing on it, and they’re selling quite well. I’ve drive both, the Santa Cruz is wonderful. Where they both missed the mark though is not having a bulkhead passthrough for long items, something Subaru figured out 2 decades ago.
I'll add my "voice" to the sentiment that if they're going to do a Brat, Baja or both it would be silly to do it with anything other than a Subaru boxer / Symmetrical AWD powertrain. If they don't want to do a different powertrain for the Toyota Scout, then use the boxer there, too. The GR86 has the same boxer engine as the BRZ, so it's not like there isn't any precedent. In my opinion, the Brat is the more obvious choice since it was more successful and would be more unique.
I could see Subaru making a Baja out of the Ascent. Since the Ascent doesn't sell incredibly well they might have space on the assembly line
I'd love to have a 2.5L or 2.4T crewcab pickup based on a Crosstrek, towing 3500lb or more, but I couldn't justify a pickup. I get more utility out of a 4dr hatchback and a trailer.
A convertible Forester with a tailgate would be pretty versatile.
All I can say is I have consistently noticed Subaru all wheel drive do things a that most others can’t I still remember being floored watching a subie doing a hill climb from a rolling start and going over a hill that Ford dodge and Chevy trucks were having a time getting up mind blown
If Subaru brings back the Brat or Baja as a hybrid why would they not base it on the upcoming Forester Hybrid? Which is supposed to have a flat four and Symmetrical AWD; this is according to Subaru's own press releases and website.
I’d love to see an 4wd high clearance truck from Subaru. Something with a bed, that can tow a moderate load and with a higher stock clearance than the current line up.
Subaru to re-introduce the Forester XT, a turbo Baja, and a new iconic 23B STi! Can’t wait! 😉
I’ll keep my Baja, although I do wish it were a 2 seater with a longer bed.
I bought an ‘03 Baja as soon as it hit the market, and it’s still my daily driver. It may be near the end, so now would be a great time for Subaru to release a new model
I love my 2006 baja. It’s a great car.im a relatively new Subaru owner. I had to fix the sloppy gearshifter and put a new coil plugs and wires but it runs like a brand new one now.that bed is really handy. I like it much better than my old 2002 Chevy tracker and that’s a good car too
7:15 Mr. Subaru enters his live studio audience phase
Baja camper shell: The Baja bed is a wet/dry space separate from the cab. Muddy hiking gear, muddy dogs, a pallet full of durians -- you can keep it out of the passenger cabin. The cap just provides security vs an open bed.
Plus you can take it on and off.
Personally I wouldn't buy a camper shell for any truck but they serve a purpose.
I love my Baja!! A brat would be amazing, but the Baja does the trick. I have a camper shell. Yes, when I use it I'm turning my Baja into an Outback...but an Outback can't turn into a small truck. :)
I would love to see one, but not without a Subaru suspension and driveline and Boxer engine .
Would like to see a new Baja/Brat with the WRX's engine and 6mt
Not interested if it’s just a rebadged Toyota. Had a couple Corolla’s (2004 & 2011) and while mechanically reliable everything else just fell apart especially interior trim and any electrical switch/knob/lever. Worst cars for road noise and I haven’t been impressed by any of Toyota’s newer stuff that I’ve rode or driven. Been very happy with our 2016 outback which has been miles ahead in terms of fit and finish compared to the Toyotas in my opinion. Also love the boxer engines. If they can’t bring it back as a proper Subaru then I’d rather they just didn’t bring it back at all.
Give me a Santa Cruise with a 2.5 Subaru drivetrain, heaven
No Subaru symmetrical AWD means it’s NOT a Subaru!
I have been looking at the Hyundai Santa Cruz.. I am not a fan of the Maverick styling. But I would love to see a Subaru option. with a turbo boxer and symmetrical AWD (with a manual transmission... i mean at this point i am just day dreaming so might as well go all in.) I have test driven a Forester Wilderness and an Outback Wilderness. I prefer the Forester but i really like the turbo power in the outback. Enjoyed the video!
Would love a brat but only with the symmetrical AWD and a boxer engine. Have you seen the Subaru brumby mighty car mods restored with a forester drive line for Subaru's 50th anniversary in Australia. Very cool.
How about a GR Corolla powerplant with a Hybrid addition and Subarus AWD with different versions, The Baja being the offroad variant and the Brat being the street truck to compete with the Maverick Lobo
I'm sure I'm in the minority, but a Ridgeline-esq midsize truck based on the ascent would be sick.
I’ll one up you 😆
Give me a Subaru mini van about the size of the Ascent with all removable seats, completely flat load floor, symmetrical all wheel drive and a Wilderness version.
PLEASE do incorporate the Toyota D4S port injection system. DI only sucks.
Could do both a brat and a baja, different sizes
I have a 2023 crosstrek standard shift that I bought after shopping round and watching your channel. Looking to do an oil change on the differentials and gear box. Is the front differential hooked up to the manual gearbox, or is it separate system?
I would love a boxer symmetrical awd truck! Oh man just think guys!
Seen a lot of Bajas up in Maine...makes sense. But, is it even a Scoobie with that sort of badge engineering and no boxer or AWD????
Oh my goodness, I forgot all about these. I hope they do bring them back.
Bought a 2023 Impreza and I love it more than the Civic cars I do PDIs at work
Australia mentioned! 💖 They actually sold the Brumby for a bit longer here, into the early '90s I think, alongside much newer vehicles like the first-gen Legacy. It was a different time back then I suppose. But it speaks to how beloved the Subaru Brumby was.
Have had Baja Auto trans.Turbo since new 2006-129K miles, still love it. Replaced Turbo once it blew from the banjo bolts clogging. Hope they build new one with better access to the spark plugs
Subscribed!😉
Yes, if it is a true Subaru!
When? I’m patiently waiting for a light duty truck, hybrid, awd. I’m not going to be rock crawling, but I want the winter traction and we’ve got roads where a little extra summer traction is helpful too.
I’ve read few years ago that T and S were developing multiple vehicles. T was doing the “hardware” and S providing their AWD know-how.
I am interested if it has a manual transmission and decent towing.
My uncle has a 78 Brat in the wonderful 70's brown! It would be great if Subaru brought back the Brat with t-tops! Anyone think I am crazy wanting Subaru to bring back the t-tops in a new Brat! I once owned a SVX way back in the day.
Brat owner, added a 84 GL center lamp, camper top, but the seats mounts were removed by a previous owner. I may have a lead on a Brat. I'm looking for an ignition switch.. Long story.
THE question for me is.... will it have a 2 speed transfer case? I wish all the Wilderness models had them.
What made the Brat great was 4wd and those rear facing seats for the cool kids. With safety and fuel economy standards these days I don’t see either of those options coming back.
Baja was cool but only if you were a fly fisherman or something where you had stinky or hella dirty gear you wanted separately stored from the main cab. Other than that the Baja was kind of a waste of space utility. Having said that if Subaru started offering seat back protection as an option along with the trunk weathermats then we’d basically have a canopied Baja.
All in all I’d love to see more compact trucks other then the hideous Ford Maverick and Subaru would make a great one if they tried!
Mr Subaru, may I ask you a motor question? 2011 Forester 2.5 should I buy a short block from Subaru or get a used one? The motor has 147k
What I would love to do (personally) is take a brat and modernize it. put a EJ251 and maybe a slightly beefier gearbox in it and just enjoy it
Makes me wonder how hard would it really be to cut out the trunk windows on a legacy or outback and move the lift gate up to right behind the rear seats then just take out the cloth interior stuff, make a wooden bed liner, then some other fitting and stuff to make a Baja lookalike
UNrelated question.. Any suggestions on where to obtain the High Torque CVT fluid that is called for in the 3.6R? It seems that using the green CVT fluid is not recommended.... Any help is appreciated. Thanks.
from reliable roumers there will be 2 models with trims in each. one hybrid and one pure gasoline the pure is the STI and the hybrid being the "WRX" style
the STI will ONLY have offerings of manual/CVT while the hybrid will only be exclusivly auto. the STI will also be over 400hp and possibly nearing 500 territory factory on the FA platform.
Been saying this since they brought out an Ascent. They can use that platform, just like the Pilot/ Ridgeline. Hurry up Subaru/ Toyota.
The Maverick needs competition
I just bought a 2024 Crosstrek Wilderness but I would trade it in immediately for a newly designed Brat.
Recently rented “ compact” pickup truck for a midweek visit to Yosemite that also dropped enough snow to close some of the Mt roads.Long story short/ hated driving every mile. The forester would have been “more aware” of the road conditions/ had a way better comfort level and if stranded during a road closure- could easily fold down the second seat and sleep in. Would not buy any mini pickup and if won in a contest- would take the cash amount.
I remember when subaru use to send subaru owners milage badges 100000 200000, 300000 always have been good cars
No boxer engine and no symetrical AWD does not make it very interesting. A much better version would be if Subaru could just make a 2 door Crosstrek or Outback with a longer bed and add hybrid stuff to it.
What the flip is the purpose of a baja without symmetric awd
Baja! Manual 👍
I've always wanted a Baja XT. sadly they never sold them here in South Africa.
I could settle for a Toyota engine and Hybrid setup, but with the Subaru symmetrical all wheel drive, otherwise NO. Would be better with a 2.0 Boxer turbo engine and hybrid.
I have read $8000 so ya got to have one. I am an old guy would want a no frills machine. This will probably never happen but will keep researching till then I will be happy with my low mileage 2000 Forester.
I’m about 3 years from purchasing a Honda Ridgeline. Sure hope Subaru resurrects a truck with the X-Drive system. I would give it a strong look along side the Honda.
I had subarus for 14 years and just switched to toyota hybrid and love it. Its a AWD corolla but after watching the video on the roller set up the system sucks. I hope to not need it in winter. Even thought I love it I would switch quick if they brought back the Brat.
I would love for Subaru to come out with the Baja in 2025. It would be easiest for them to just take an Outback and change the rear end to be a pick-up bed.
With the high demand of the Maverick, a new Brat could totally be successful. The Ridgeline and Santa Cruz are still looking for their own mainstream appeal though
I've been saying for a couple of years now that subaru needs to bring back the baja or brat. With the popularity of the maverick and the santa cruz, there is definitely a market for it. However, without a boxer under the hood, I don't see it working with current subaru people. No boxer, no subie.
I wanna see a serious Subaru truck meaning body on frame if they are gonna do a Baja style pick up
Subaru has never produced a body on frame vehicle, they aren't going to start now
@@Kwijibob ty Subaru VP of vehicle choices
my guess would be the the new e-boxer that will come on the 2026 forester, and the 2.4T from the outback
Love the idea of a new Baja. ❤ But if it's not as cool looking as the thumbnail, I'm not interested.
I nearly bought a Baja in 2003, but the dealer apparently thought I wasn't serious or something, so I bought a Saturn Ion instead. The Ion is long gone, but if I had bought the Baja, I would probably still have it today. As much as I like Toyota (I have a 1990 4Runner) I don't think I would by a re-badged Toyota if it didn't have the Subaru drive system and I really don't want a hybrid anything.
The inline four I can live with, but if this won't have the symmetrical all wheel drive, I'll pass.
Smaller truck or car/trucks are selling well. What I what is a modern Kei truck slightly bigger with a decent engine.
Basically the size of Japanese trucks in the 70’s and 80’s. My first truck was a 1979 Toyota and it was a great size.
Would love to see the BRAT back because of the cool factor, but would the towing capacity be the same as the Baha?
Owned a 86 Brat, built a custom rack for kayaks. Loads of CV boot issues since the exhaust was right under it. 2 person small trucks are not really made any more, which is a shame.