Overview:
This week I tested the 2003 Subaru Baja AWD mini crew cab truck. What a cute little car and the looks you get from young people indicates what market Subaru is after.
Overall I found the Baja a fun car to drive that will not appeal to people over, say 35. Younger sport minded people will want to opt for the tubular bed extender for a surfboard, for example. Older people will say, why not buy a station wagon that provides the cargo space plus the security? Station wagons aren’t cool for young folks today. But remember the “Woodies” so popular in the last generation? Today that generation is re-visiting such cars like the PT Cruiser. I think young people would go for a “Woodie” too, but the “Off Road” craze gives more appeal to the “Truck” thing.
A pickup truck used primarily for transportation will be inconvenient. Recently on a trip to Mexico in a Frontier Pickup we had to move our gear into the cab for a lunch stop and all stops where the vehicle will be out of your control or view.
General Info:
Parts – N/A
Assembly – USA
Class: – Pick up Truck
Cars: – Baja, Forester, Impreza, Legacy.
Handling & Performance:
It slips around town with ease. I did notice a little clutch chatter when cold. Acceleration is a little sluggish and better with the manual trans. The All Wheel Drive is all the time and I consider that a plus because you get that improved traction and better fuel economy that alternative 4-wheel drive capable vehicles. Although the Baja has all wheel drive it is not meant for heavy duty off road use.
Styling:
The design includes a pass through from the rear seat to the cargo truck bed and a tubular extender with the tailgate down provides added hauling capability. It truly is a mini crew cab pickup truck. Kids love this sedan/truck but others won’t be as impressed.
Fit and Finish:
This little truck is quite and well put together and well insulated from outside noise.
Conveniences:
There is a lot of gadgetry commonly available on most cars these days. This is packed with the “Lifestyle” considerations for the young out of doors active guy or gal.
Cost:
Base price is $23,995 and if you want the bed extender, speaker upgrade add $495, they also have a 6-disk in-dash CD changer for $520 and Baja Lights on the roof rack is $395. Total with floor mats and delivery the total comes to $25,985.
Consumer Recommendation:
I found myself recommending Subaru to my Niece when asked what cars would fit her budget and need for good performance. She wants an SUV like too many others but I cautioned her on the certainty that gas prices are not going to get much better in the near term and certainly with normal inflation and uncertain supply she should brace herself for spending more for transportation unless she goes with a better fuel economy car. If you are in the market for a youthful car/truck with good gas performance in an all wheel drive, all the time, vehicle, Subaru is an outstanding choice. If you simply need a small truck, this isn’t it.
The Competition:
Chevrolet S10 $24,260, Dodge Dakota $24,075, Ford Ranger $19,975, GMC Sonoma $24,560, Mazda Truck $21,160, Nissan Frontier $24,419, Toyota Tacoma $18,630.
Good News:
Good fuel economy, fun to drive, all wheel drive, surprisingly quiet and comfortable ride.
Bad News:
Optional Roof lights are functional only with the parking brake set, only average acceleration.
Standard Equipment:
2.5 liter 4-cylinder 165 hp engine, all wheel drive, limited slip differential, abs 4-wheel disc brakes, dual air bags, air conditioning, stereo with CD player, cruise control, keyless entry, leather wrapped wheel and shift knob, leather trimmed upholstery, power windows and door locks and mirrors, 6-way power drivers seat, fold down rear seats, 16 inch alloy wheels, cargo light and tie downs and liner, fog lights, heavy duty raised suspension, power moon roof and tilt up, roof rails, swing down license plate, bed extender and pass through, 5 year 60,000 mile warranty.
Gas Stats:
20 City and 25 Highway MPG.
Pricing:
MSRP $24,495.
