The Subaru Baja is a car/truck hybrid. It is very similar to the Subaru Outback, except instead of a large wagon's cargo area, it has an open pickup truck-like bed, complete with a tailgate. The Baja was introduced in early 2002 and is attempting to fill a gap in the car industry that was left with the demise of the (larger) Ford Ranchero and the Chevrolet El Camino. In the 1980s, Subaru sold an even smaller version of this hybrid body-style named BRAT.
The Baja is targeted at young drivers, and suburbanites, who may need the cargo space once in a while, but don't want to drive a less efficient SUV or full-sized truck.
The original 2003 model came with leather seats, power driver's seat, and sunroof. The more economical Sport model, equipped with cloth interior and manual seats, was introduced later in the production year.
The 2004 production year offered a new 2.5 L Turbo model with cloth or leather interior and manual or automatic Sportshift transmissions. The Baja Sport offers different paint and trim options but remains much the same as 2003.
Some new color options and just a few minor changes were made for the 2005 model. All models were given a power outlet in the center console, rear seatback net pocket, and Turbo models with leather came standard with a new tonneau bed cover.
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