Hey car enthusiasts! The question of whether Subaru makes a two-door coupe is a common one, and the answer requires a bit of a dive into Subaru's history and current lineup. Subaru, known for its all-wheel-drive vehicles and rally heritage, has indeed offered two-door coupes in the past, but the current situation is a little different. Let's explore the history, models, and potential future of Subaru coupes.

A Look Back at Subaru Coupes

Subaru's history with coupes is rich and varied, featuring models that have garnered a loyal following over the years. One of the most iconic examples is the Subaru XT, produced in the 1980s and early 1990s. The XT was known for its futuristic design, innovative technology, and, of course, its two-door coupe body style. This model stood out with its wedge-shaped profile and offered features like adjustable air suspension and a digital instrument cluster, making it a unique offering in its time. The XT was available with both front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive configurations, appealing to a broad range of drivers looking for something different and technologically advanced.

Another notable mention is the Subaru SVX, a grand tourer that was produced in the early 1990s. The SVX was characterized by its distinctive window-within-a-window design and luxurious features. Although technically a three-door coupe due to its rear hatch, it shared the sleek styling and sporty appeal of a traditional coupe. The SVX was powered by a smooth and powerful six-cylinder engine, providing a refined driving experience. Despite its advanced features and striking design, the SVX had a relatively short production run, but it remains a sought-after classic among Subaru enthusiasts.

These historical models demonstrate that Subaru has a history of producing stylish and innovative coupes. However, in recent years, Subaru has shifted its focus towards sedans, SUVs, and hatchbacks, reflecting changing market demands and consumer preferences. While the company has not completely abandoned the idea of coupes, there are currently no two-door coupe models in Subaru's lineup. This shift raises questions about whether Subaru might consider re-entering the coupe market in the future, especially with the growing interest in sporty and performance-oriented vehicles.

Current Subaru Lineup: Focusing on Practicality

Currently, Subaru's lineup is heavily focused on practicality and versatility. Models like the Subaru Outback, Forester, and Crosstrek dominate the sales charts, offering ample cargo space, reliable all-wheel-drive systems, and a range of safety features. These vehicles cater to families and outdoor enthusiasts who prioritize functionality and dependability. The Subaru Impreza and Legacy sedans provide more traditional passenger car options, with a focus on fuel efficiency and all-weather capability. Even the sporty Subaru WRX and WRX STI, known for their performance and rally-inspired handling, are offered as four-door sedans, emphasizing practicality alongside performance.

This emphasis on practicality reflects broader trends in the automotive market, where SUVs and crossovers have become increasingly popular. Consumers are drawn to the higher seating position, increased cargo capacity, and perceived safety benefits of these vehicles. As a result, many automakers have shifted their production towards these segments, often at the expense of coupes and other niche models. Subaru's decision to focus on SUVs and crossovers aligns with this trend, allowing the company to capitalize on the growing demand for these vehicles and maintain its competitive position in the market.

However, this doesn't mean that Subaru has completely abandoned its sporty roots. The WRX and WRX STI continue to offer thrilling performance and engaging driving dynamics, appealing to enthusiasts who value speed and agility. These models serve as a reminder of Subaru's rally heritage and its commitment to providing exciting driving experiences. While they may not be two-door coupes, they still embody the spirit of Subaru's performance-oriented past. The BRZ, developed in collaboration with Toyota, also offers a sporty option for those seeking a coupe, although it is not exclusively a Subaru model.

The Subaru BRZ: A Collaborative Coupe

While Subaru doesn't currently offer a two-door coupe under its own name, the Subaru BRZ is a notable exception, albeit a collaborative effort with Toyota. The BRZ is a sports coupe developed jointly by Subaru and Toyota, with Subaru handling the engineering and production. It's marketed as the Subaru BRZ and the Toyota GR86 (formerly the Toyota 86), depending on the market and model year. This rear-wheel-drive coupe is designed for driving enthusiasts, offering a lightweight chassis, responsive handling, and a sporty driving experience.

The BRZ features a 2.4-liter naturally aspirated boxer engine, known for its balanced performance and distinctive sound. Its low center of gravity and precise steering make it a joy to drive on winding roads and race tracks. The BRZ is available with both manual and automatic transmissions, catering to a wide range of driving preferences. Its compact size and nimble handling make it a popular choice among those seeking an affordable and engaging sports car. While it carries the Subaru name, it's important to remember that it's a collaborative project, reflecting the shared expertise and resources of both Subaru and Toyota.

The collaboration between Subaru and Toyota on the BRZ/GR86 has been a successful one, allowing both companies to offer a compelling sports coupe without fully committing their own resources. This partnership highlights the potential for automakers to collaborate on niche models, sharing development costs and expertise to create vehicles that might not otherwise be feasible. The BRZ serves as a reminder that Subaru is still involved in the coupe market, even if it's not a solely Subaru-branded product. It remains a popular choice for those seeking a fun and affordable sports car with Subaru DNA.

Will Subaru Bring Back a Two-Door Coupe?

The question remains: Will Subaru ever bring back a two-door coupe to its main lineup? The answer is complex and depends on various factors, including market trends, consumer demand, and Subaru's strategic priorities. While there's no official confirmation from Subaru about future coupe models, there are several reasons to believe that it's not entirely out of the question.

One reason is the enduring appeal of sports cars and coupes among driving enthusiasts. Despite the popularity of SUVs and crossovers, there's still a significant market for vehicles that prioritize performance, handling, and style. A well-designed and competitively priced Subaru coupe could attract buyers who are looking for something different from the mainstream offerings. Moreover, a coupe could help enhance Subaru's brand image, reinforcing its reputation for sporty and engaging vehicles. The success of the BRZ demonstrates that there's still a demand for Subaru-engineered coupes, even if they're not exclusively Subaru-branded.

Another factor to consider is the potential for electrification and hybrid technology to revitalize the coupe market. As automakers increasingly focus on developing electric and hybrid vehicles, there's an opportunity to create coupes that offer both performance and efficiency. An electric Subaru coupe could combine the brand's all-wheel-drive expertise with the instant torque and quiet operation of electric motors, creating a unique and compelling driving experience. Similarly, a hybrid coupe could offer improved fuel economy without sacrificing performance, appealing to environmentally conscious buyers who still want a sporty vehicle.

Ultimately, the decision to bring back a two-door coupe will depend on Subaru's assessment of the market and its ability to develop a vehicle that meets the needs and desires of its target customers. While there's no guarantee that a new Subaru coupe will ever materialize, the possibility remains open, especially if market trends shift and new technologies emerge. For now, enthusiasts will have to look to the BRZ for their Subaru coupe fix, or perhaps explore the used market for classic Subaru coupes like the XT and SVX.

Conclusion

So, to answer the initial question: No, Subaru does not currently manufacture a two-door coupe under its own name, but it does co-produce the Subaru BRZ with Toyota. Subaru has a history of producing coupes, and the possibility of a new Subaru coupe in the future remains a topic of speculation and hope among enthusiasts. Keep an eye on future announcements from Subaru, and who knows, we might just see a new Subaru coupe gracing the roads someday!