Toyota and Subaru’s Compact Truck Rumors
The automotive world is abuzz with rumors of a new compact pickup truck collaboration between Toyota and Subaru. This potential new vehicle is expected to revive the iconic Toyota Stout and Subaru Brat nameplates, bringing them to the US market.
Background on the Toyota Stout and Subaru Brat
The Toyota Stout was produced from 1954 to 1989, with some export markets continuing to receive the small pickup truck until 2000. The Subaru Brat, on the other hand, was manufactured between 1978 and 1994, with US production ending in 1989. The Subaru model was more of a ute, based on the Subaru Leone station wagon, while earlier Toyota Stout models shared a platform with the Toyota Dyna cab-over light truck.
Key Features and Speculations
- Platform and Design: The new Stout and Brat are expected to feature a unibody platform, classifying them as ‘lifestyle pickup trucks’ rather than rugged, off-road vehicles.
- Dimensions: The Toyota EPU concept, which previews the Stout and potentially the Brat, has a total length of 199.6 inches (5,070 mm), similar to the Ford Maverick and Hyundai Santa Cruz.
- Powertrain: While initial rumors suggested an electric vehicle (EV) powertrain, there’s speculation that a hybrid or internal combustion engine might be more likely, given Toyota’s recent benchmarking of non-EV competitor vehicles.
- Pricing: The starting price is expected to be in the low $30,000 range, competing directly with the Ford Maverick (starting MSRP $29,840) and Hyundai Santa Cruz (starting MSRP $30,200).
- Manufacturing: With a 25% tariff on light trucks imported to the US, production is likely to occur within the country. Toyota’s plant in Princeton, Indiana, is a potential candidate for manufacturing.
Engine Options and Performance
- The 2.5-liter Dynamic Force engine, commonly used in hybrid models, is a potential candidate for the Stout/Brat trucks.
- Toyota’s newly developed 2.0-liter turbo-four engine could be used in a range-topping variant, such as a GR Stout.
- Engine requirements are speculated to be at least 225 hp and matching torque.
Market Expectations and Consumer Reactions
- Consumers are divided on the powertrain, with some preferring hybrid or gasoline options for affordability and others supporting electric or range-extended EV configurations.
- Bed size and configuration are critical factors, with some consumers wishing for a single-cab, extended-bed variant.
- Fuel economy expectations are high, with targets of 35 MPG or more for hybrid models.
Conclusion
The potential revival of the Toyota Stout and Subaru Brat as compact pickup trucks represents an exciting development in the automotive market. With their expected pricing, features, and the collaboration between Toyota and Subaru, these vehicles are poised to make a significant impact. However, the final specifications, including powertrain options and bed configurations, will be crucial in determining their success in the competitive US market.
