Long before the term “crossover” existed, Subaru created a vehicle that defied categorization: the Subaru BRAT. An acronym for Bi-drive Recreational All-terrain Transporter, this quirky ute carved out a unique legacy with its unapologetic practicality and one famous feature: rear-facing jump seats in the bed. This deep dive explores the history, ingenious design, and lasting cult status of the Subaru BRAT, a vehicle that remains a beloved oddity in automotive history.
A Product of Legislation: The BRAT’s Reason for Being
The Subaru BRAT wasn’t just a flight of fancy; it was a brilliant business strategy. In the 1970s, the U.S. government imposed a 25% tariff, known as the “chicken tax,” on imported light trucks. To circumvent this tax, Subaru had a clever idea: by installing two rear-facing plastic seats in the cargo bed, the BRAT could be classified as a “passenger vehicle” instead of a “light truck,” saving a significant amount of money on import duties. This regulatory loophole gave birth to an icon.
Subaru BRAT Model Overview: Humble Powerhouse
Based on the Subaru Leone platform, the BRAT was a simple, rugged, and capable vehicle.
Design and Capability
Body Style: A two-door coupé utility with a open-top cargo bed.
Drivetrain: Featured Subaru’s part-time four-wheel drive system, controlled by a manual lever, making it surprisingly capable off-road.
Engine: Powered by a 1.6-liter horizontally-opposed “boxer” four-cylinder engine, known for its low center of gravity and reliability rather than blistering speed.
The Iconic Jump Seats
The defining feature was the two rear-facing jump seats mounted in the cargo bed. These seats came with:
Plastic “T-top” style handles for passengers to hold onto.
Simple seatbelts.
A disclaimer on the sun visor explicitly stating the seats were for “off-road use only.”
Why the Subaru BRAT Still Matters
The BRAT’s impact goes far beyond its sales figures. It represents a specific, innovative era in automotive design.
Cult Status: Its quirky looks and unique feature set have given it a dedicated fanbase. Well-maintained models are sought-after collectibles.
Proven Durability: The simple, robust mechanicals of the BRAT are legendary for their longevity. Many are still on the road today, a testament to Subaru’s build quality.
A Nostalgia Icon: It perfectly captures the adventurous, utilitarian spirit of the 1980s. It was a favorite of farmers, outdoorsmen, and even U.S. President Ronald Reagan, who owned one on his ranch.
Key Features & Quirks
Standard Four-Wheel Drive: Unusual for the time, especially in an affordable vehicle.
Targa Top: The early models featured a removable fiberglass roof panel over the front seats.
Dual-Range Transmission: A two-speed transfer case provided both high and low gearing for off-road capability.
Plastic Bed Liner: The cargo bed was fitted with a durable plastic liner.
“Subaru On The Roof” Decals: Bold graphics were a hallmark of its 80s styling.
The BRAT’s Legacy and Potential Future
The BRAT was discontinued in the U.S. after the 1987 model year, though it lived on in other markets as the Subaru Brumby. Its spirit of quirky utility can be seen in modern vehicles like the Hyundai Santa Cruz and Ford Maverick, which have revived the small, unibody pickup truck segment.
Rumors occasionally swirl about Subaru reviving the BRAT nameplate for a modern take on the theme, potentially based on the Subaru Crosstrek platform.
Conclusion: An Unforgettable Automotive Oddity
The Subaru BRAT is a reminder that some of the most memorable cars are born from creativity and constraint. It was a clever solution to a tax problem that became a cultural touchstone. More than just a car with seats in the back, it was a capable, dependable, and endlessly charming vehicle that embodied Subaru’s core values of practicality and all-wheel-drive competence. For those who remember them, the BRAT isn’t just a old Subaru; it’s a symbol of a more analog, adventurous, and fun era on the road.
Want to see more iconic classic cars? Browse ZapXA’s full archive of classic car features and retrospectives.
