When did the Subaru 360 come out?
The Subaru 360 came out in 1958.
The car was introduced by Fuji Heavy Industries as Japan’s first mass-produced kei car, marking a turning point in affordable urban mobility. Produced throughout the late 1950s and into the 1960s, it helped define a new era of compact driving in postwar Japan before fading from production in 1970.
Release and production timeline
Below is a concise timeline of when the Subaru 360 entered the market, when production began, and how long it lasted.
- 1958: Debut and start of production as a purpose-built kei car under Japan’s 360cc regulations.
- Late 1950s to the mid-1960s: Ongoing sales and updates as Subaru refined the model for urban use.
- 1970: End of production for the Subaru 360, as newer kei models began to replace it.
The timeline illustrates a brief yet influential run that helped popularize ultra-compact cars in Japan and set the template for future kei designs.
Design, technology and impact
Engine and drivetrain
The Subaru 360 used a compact 360cc engine, mounted in a rear layout with driving force to the rear wheels. It was designed to meet kei-car regulations of the era, prioritizing affordability, simplicity, and city-friendly performance over high speed or luxury.
Body and interior
The 360 featured a small, boxy body with seating for two and light-duty interior appointments. Its compact dimensions and lightweight construction made it easy to maneuver in crowded city streets, a hallmark of kei cars that followed.
Legacy and modern appreciation
Today, the Subaru 360 is remembered as a landmark in automotive history—the first mass-produced kei car from a major Japanese manufacturer and a symbol of Japan’s postwar urbanization. Collectors, museums, and car clubs prize surviving examples for their nostalgic value and historical significance.
Summary
The Subaru 360 was released in 1958 and played a pivotal role in establishing kei cars as a practical and affordable option for everyday mobility in Japan. Its compact design and accessible engineering helped shape urban transportation for the era, with production continuing through the 1960s until its conclusion in 1970. As a milestone, it remains a touchstone for enthusiasts and historians studying the evolution of Japan’s automotive landscape.
