Rally-inspired Subarus to make an EV comeback?

Electrification could be the key to reinvigorating sales of sporty all-wheel-drive saloons

- By Paul Barker

SUBARU is looking to “reignite old passions” with a new halo model, which is among seven fresh electric vehicles coming to the UK by the end of 2028. The brand, famous for its performance saloons and rally cars in the nineties and 2000s, is aiming to instil some of that sporting heritage into its EVs to rebuild enthusiasm for the niche badge.

The company has long been under pressure from enthusiasts to return to the type of cars that made it popular in Europe before success in other markets moved its focus away from performance models to rugged estates and SUVs. And electrification could prove the catalyst, sparking quick Subarus back into life.

“EVs are coming and they’re making things that we’ve been dreaming of possible again, so we’re seeing almost a rebirth of that sort of blue car with the yellow paint on it,” said David Dello Stritto, Subaru general manager for Europe.

“This is exciting”, he added.