When was the Subaru 360 introduced?
The Subaru 360 was introduced in 1958.
It marked Subaru’s entry into Japan’s kei-car segment and became a symbol of the country’s postwar push toward affordable personal mobility. The car was publicly unveiled that year, signaling Subaru’s shift toward compact, economical vehicles and laying the groundwork for its future small-car strategy.
Historical context
In the 1950s, Japan formalized a kei-car category to encourage widespread car ownership among households with modest means. Automakers responded with ultra-small, highly affordable designs that conformed to strict size and engine-displacement limits. The Subaru 360 was Fuji Heavy Industries’ response to this policy, combining a tiny footprint with practical usability and reliability, and it became a landmark in Japan’s automotive history.
Launch and debut
Public debut
The model was publicly unveiled in 1958, marking Subaru’s entry into the mass-market kei-car segment and signaling the company’s ambitions to broaden mobility options for ordinary Japanese families.
Production and market introduction
Following its debut, production and domestic sales commenced in 1958. The 360’s lightweight design and economical operation helped popularize microcars in Japan and established Subaru as a prominent player in the early kei-car era.
Legacy and impact
The Subaru 360 is widely regarded as one of the pioneering mass-produced kei cars. Its success demonstrated the viability of ultra-compact, affordable automobiles and influenced Subaru’s product planning for years to come. The model remains a defining example of how Japan’s postwar policy environments shaped automotive design and consumer choices during the era.
Summary
In short, the Subaru 360 was introduced in 1958, inaugurating Subaru’s foray into kei cars and helping drive the mass-market adoption of inexpensive, compact automobiles in Japan. Its legacy continues to be a touchstone in the story of Japan’s automotive modernization.
Is the 2025 Subaru 360 real?
Making it clear that the Ladybug has grown up and is ready to take on the modern. World. Step inside and you're greeted by a cabin that surprises with its spaciousness.
What is the history of the Subaru 360?
Subaru 360 (1958-1971) – "The Ladybug" The Subaru 360 was Japan's first mass-produced microcar (kei car) and helped establish Subaru as an automaker. Nicknamed "The Ladybug" for its small, round shape, the Subaru 360 became an affordable, fuel-efficient car for post-war Japan.
Which Subaru has a 360 degree camera?
The Subaru models with a 360-degree camera system are the 2025 Subaru Forester Touring (available on higher trims), the Subaru Solterra, and certain trims of the Subaru Crosstrek. Subaru also offers this technology on the Ascent, though the 2025 Forester now includes it.
You can watch this video to see how the 360-degree camera works in the 2025 Subaru Forester: 20sConley SubaruYouTube · Jul 12, 2025
Subaru models with a 360-degree camera
- Forester: The 360-degree camera is available on the 2025 Forester, specifically on the top-tier Touring trim, and on the 2026 model. It provides a bird's-eye view for easier parking and maneuvering.
- Solterra: The all-electric Solterra is equipped with a 360-degree panoramic view monitor to help with situational awareness.
- Crosstrek: Higher trims of the Crosstrek, including the AWD 2.0R, AWD 2.0S, and the Hybrid S, feature a 360-degree panoramic view monitor.
- Ascent: This 3-row SUV also comes with a 360-degree camera system.
Was the Subaru 360 sold in America?
The Subaru 360 was the first-ever Subaru model sold in the United States after Malcolm Bricklin formed Subaru of America in 1968.
