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Subaru BRAT

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description Subaru BRAT Overview

The Subaru BRAT, officially standing for Bi-drive Recreational All-terrain Transporter, was a light-duty coupe utility vehicle produced from 1978 to 1987. It featured all-wheel drive and a small pickup truck bed, distinguishing itself from standard trucks with its car-based chassis. To circumvent the "Chicken Tax" on imported light trucks in the United States, Subaru equipped the cargo bed with two rear-facing jump seats. This design allowed it to be classified as a passenger car, giving it a unique place in automotive history.

help Subaru BRAT FAQ

What does Subaru BRAT stand for?

BRAT stands for Bi-drive Recreational All-terrain Transporter. The name describes Subaru's four-wheel-drive coupe utility, which combined a car-like cabin with a small pickup bed.

When was the Subaru BRAT sold?

The Subaru BRAT was sold in the United States from 1978 through 1987. It was based on Subaru's car platform rather than a conventional body-on-frame pickup.

Why does the Subaru BRAT have seats in the pickup bed?

Some BRAT versions used rear-facing seats in the cargo bed to fit the vehicle's passenger-car classification in the United States. Those seats are a distinctive historical feature, but they would not meet modern expectations for pickup-bed passenger safety.

Was the Subaru BRAT a real off-road truck?

It had all-wheel drive and useful ground clearance, but its car-based construction made it lighter and less truck-like than a Toyota pickup or Nissan Hardbody. It was intended as a compact recreational utility vehicle rather than a heavy-duty work truck.

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