Subaru SVX

The Subaru SVX is a luxury grand tourer produced from 1992 to 1997, exclusively as a 1991 model year through 1997. The SVX was Subaru ambitious flagship product, designed by Giorgetto Giugiaro (the legendary Italian designer of cars including the original Lotus Esprit, Volkswagen Golf, and DeLorean). The SVX features distinctive aircraft-style "window-within-a-window" design where the upper portion of the side glass is fixed and only the lower portion rolls down. The SVX used the EG33 3.3-liter flat-six engine making 230 horsepower naturally aspirated. The car had Subaru AWD as standard equipment, four-speed automatic transmission only (no manual was available), and a curb weight around 3,650 pounds. The chassis dynamics were tuned for grand tourer character rather than aggressive sport coupe, with comfort and refinement prioritized. The SVX was a commercial disappointment for Subaru. Production was modest (around 14,000 units total globally over the production run). Subaru lost money on each SVX sold; the car was discontinued in 1997 with no successor. The SVX has been recognized as ahead-of-its-time and as a future classic since the early 2000s. Modern SVX prices have appreciated. The cars are recognized JDM-era oddities with distinctive design and unique character. The aftermarket support is moderate; some specialty shops focus on SVX maintenance. On WhipJury, SVX submissions are rare but always memorable. The distinctive design, the rarity, and the unique character make the SVX a standout when it appears. Modified SVX builds (often with EG33 engine work and chassis upgrades) appear occasionally.