2007 Subaru Baja Review
The Subaru Baja is the souped up cousin to the El Camino — a sporty cross between a compact pickup and Subaru’s popular Outback/Legacy station wagons. This new crossover vehicle debuted in 2003, and in 2004 Subaru added a turbo option. Adaptable to many situations, the Baja is a crossbreed with sporty utility and the peppy driving of a car – ideal for tasks like running errands to Home Depot. With a flashy, unique look, the Baja is unlike almost any new vehicle today. However, the compromise lies in that it is neither as utilitarian as a pickup, nor as peppy as a car.
The Baja was retired in spring of 2006, but is still available on dealer lots. Don’t be surprised to find them heavily discounted.
The BuyingAdvice Team Says:
The Subaru Baja was a unique little crossover. It’s a shame that it was put out to pasture, considering its excellent reliability record. However, it is seriously lacking in safety features and its crashworthiness has not been proven. But if you can find a good deal on it (and you should be able to), the Baja is certainly worth looking at.
What’s New For 2007:
What is the Predicted Reliability:
The Baja has an excellent reliability record. It received three and a half out of five stars for initial reliability from J.D. Power & Associates, and an overall green rating from Automotive Information Systems. It has a few recorded problems, including rough idling and transmission leaks on the 2004-05 models. It was recalled once in 2004 for a loose oil valve. Expect above average reliability out of the Baja. Its basic warranty lasts for three years or 36,000 miles.
Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:
Neither the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety nor the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has performed crash tests on the Baja. The Baja doesn’t offer much in the way of safety features, but does include anti-lock brakes, daytime running lights, and rear seat head restraints. Side airbags are not available.
Pros and Cons:
Pros
+ Adaptable hauling configurations
+ Proven reliability
+ Unique design won’t get lost in a parking lot
Cons
– Handles worse than a car
– Hauls less than a pickup
– Lack of safety features
Head-To-Head Competition:
While the Subaru Baja is in a class by itself, there are a number of alternatives if you just want a pickup truck. For instance, the Chevrolet Colorado starts about $2,000 less than the Baja’s list price, and has significantly more payload capacity. A similarly decked out Ford Ranger costs about $700 more, but has a larger, six-cylinder engine with 42 more horses. However, the Baja gets better overall gas mileage, and has a sunroof. A better alternative is the Nissan Frontier SE, which costs about $800 less, and has a larger, six-cylinder engine with more horsepower. However, the Baja has the same advantages over the Frontier as the Ranger: Better gas mileage and a sunroof.
What Others Are Saying:
“If there’s one word that describes the Subaru Baja, it has to be fun. This clever little multi-use crew-cab is as entertaining as it is practical.” – Motorweek
“Very solid little truck. Great for fishing, hiking, poor traction conditions. Best mpg I’ve had in a 4wd/AWD.Can’t wait for snow.” – L.A. Times
“I’ve been driving a Baja for the past week, and have been the center of attention wherever I’ve gone. It’s not just the signature bright yellow color that attracts attention and smiles (other colors are available). Its look and shape are unique. Unlike a monster-size SUV, it’s not threatening. It’s also comfortable and practical, and a functional vehicle for bicycling, camping, hiking, fishing, climbing, surfing, and other outdoor enthusiasts.” – The Auto Channel
