What do they call people who drive Subarus?
Most commonly, Subaru drivers are referred to informally as “Subies” (or “Subies”) and, less formally, as “Scoobies” or “Scoobie” in some regions. These nicknames vary by region and community, while neutral terms like “Subaru owner” or “Subaru enthusiast” are also widely used.
Common nicknames and what they mean
The following terms are the ones you’ll most often encounter in car forums, social media groups, and fan communities. They range from affectionate to casual, and some carry regional flair.
- Subie (singular) / Subies (plural) — the most widely used informal shorthand for a Subaru driver.
- Scoobie/Scoobies (singular/plural) — popular in the United Kingdom and among some fans, derived from Scooby-Doo, used playfully.
- Subarista — a playful, respectful term used by some Subaru enthusiasts to signal a devoted fan or member of the Subie community.
- Subaru owner / Subaru enthusiast — neutral descriptors used in journalism, reviews, and formal contexts.
These terms are informal and culturally specific; while "Subie" is broadly understood, some communities prefer neutral language to avoid stereotypes.
Regional flavor and context
In North America, “Subie” and “Subies” are the standard shorthand, often used in social media posts, meetups, and club names. In the United Kingdom and parts of Europe, “Scoobie” or “Scoobies” is more commonly heard, reflecting local humor and branding. In Australia and New Zealand, both “Subie” and “Scooby” appear, depending on the group and age demographic. Media and brands that want neutral language typically use “Subaru owner” or “Subaru enthusiast.”
Neutral terminology and how to refer to drivers respectfully
For formal writing, journalism, or inclusive contexts, it’s often best to use neutral phrases such as “Subaru owner,” “Subaru enthusiast,” or “Subaru driver.” These terms describe the relationship to the brand without implying a personality trait or stereotype, which can be important in avoiding bias.
In casual conversations or feature stories, you may encounter the playful nicknames mentioned above, but it’s wise to consider the audience and intent. Some people embrace terms like Subie or Scoobie, while others may prefer neutral language.
Summary
The shorthand most readers will recognize for people who drive Subarus is Subie (or Subies), with Scoobie/Scoobies as a regional alternative. Other informal terms include Subarista for a devoted fan, and neutral options like “Subaru owner” or “Subaru enthusiast” for formal contexts. Regional variation shapes which moniker is used, but all ultimately refer to drivers or fans of the brand.
