If you are a Subaru enthusiast, you'll be familiar with all seven of Subaru's mistakes listed below, and you could probably add a few of your own. It's not an April Fools' joke and here is our list of Subaru's biggest mistakes.
1. Not bringing back the WRX hatch in the 2022 next-generation model
Subaru would be wise to return the WRX hatch because the Japanese automaker killed the performance-tuned STI model. The next-generation WRX needs a hatchback body style.
Subaru needs to keep interest in the WRX high after they dashed performance enthusiasts' hopes by dropping the WRX STI. A new 2023 Subaru WRX with a hatchback body style would generate new hunger for the sport-tuned sports car.
2. Dropping the STI before its time
We understand why Subaru discontinued the performance-tuned WRX STI, but they did it too soon. The 2.4-liter direct-injection 2.4-liter would have been more fuel-efficient than the EJ25 2.5-liter Boxer engine, and they could have cleaned up emissions enough to satisfy most states. They could have dropped the STI in California to comply with the new emissions and fuel regulations.
Photo credit: Planet Subaru
3. Discontinuing the Subaru Baja
Imagine where the Baja pickup would be today if Subaru had not dropped the compact pickup. The sport-utility truck market is heating up, and Subaru would be in the perfect position to take advantage of the hot pickup market in the U.S., and it would have been one of their most popular all-wheel-drive models.
4. Dropping the Forester 2.0XT turbocharged compact SUV
Subaru says they dropped the Forester 2.0XT turbocharged model because of slow sales. After the next-generation Forester launch, Subaru executives explained why they chose the non-turbo route. Company execs said sportiness does not necessarily mean having more power. Tomohiro Ishitobi, Subaru Corporation's senior general manager for the sales and marketing division, said, "Our interpretation of sportiness does not rely on engine power."
Photo credit: Planet Subaru
5. Not dropping a 2.4-liter turbo in the 2022 Forester Wilderness
The biggest disappointment in the new 2022 Subaru Forester Wilderness was that it comes with the standard 2.5-liter Boxer that powers all trim levels. The 2.4-liter turbocharged Boxer engine powers the 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness, but why not the 2022 Forester Wilderness?
Fans were hoping for more than just a "look of off-roading" and wanted a rugged vehicle that could carry additional gear for Overlanding and getting further away from civilization. The 2.4-liter turbocharged engine has 78 more horsepower than Forester's 182 horsepower 2.5-liter engine and would have made a big difference.
6. No heated steering wheel in the Forester Wilderness and Crosstrek Sport
Customers who want to get further away use compact SUVs in the winter. Forester Wilderness and Crosstrek Sport customers would appreciate the added warmth of having the heat on their hands. U.S. outdoor enthusiasts will have to wear gloves when the temperature drops below freezing in the Northeast, Rocky Mountains, and the Northwest.
7. Not offering a head-up display in Forester, Outback, Crosstrek, and Ascent or any models
What was once exclusively available in luxury vehicles, head-up displays now come standard on some mainstream brand cars. Hyundai, Mazda, and Toyota offer head-up displays (HUD) like the one in the latest Toyota Prius. Unfortunately, Subaru doesn't offer a HUD on any vehicle in its lineup. Will Subaru bring a HUD in the next-generation Forester, Outback, Crosstrek, or Ascent in 2024?
These are our top picks for Subaru's worst mistakes; what would you add to the list? Leave your comments below.
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Denis Flierl has invested over 30 years in the automotive industry in a consulting role working with every major car brand. He is an accredited member of the Rocky Mountain Automotive Press. Check out Subaru Report where he covers all of the Japanese automaker's models. More stories can be found on the Torque News Subaru page. Follow Denis on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
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Photo credit: Planet Subaru
