Subaru in the World Rally Championship



Ebisu (Japan)
Founded by Chikuhei Nakajima.
Manufacturing since 1953 until today.

How many manufacturers championships was win Subaru

Subaru has won 3 world championships :

1995 Impreza


1996 Impreza

1997 Impreza WRC

Subaru rally cars

Subaru Impreza 555 Group A
Subaru Impreza GC Group A
Subaru Impreza WRC GC 2000 WRC
Subaru Impreza WRC GC 97 WRC
Subaru Impreza WRC GC 98 WRC
Subaru Impreza WRC GC 99 WRC
Subaru Impreza WRC GD 2001 WRC
Subaru Impreza WRC GD 2002 WRC
Subaru Impreza WRC GD 2003 WRC
Subaru Impreza WRC GD 2004 WRC
Subaru Impreza WRC GD 2005 WRC
Subaru Impreza WRC GD 2006 WRC
Subaru Impreza WRC GD 2007 WRC
Subaru Impreza WRC GE 2008 WRC
Subaru Impreza WRX Group A
Subaru Impreza WRX STI Group N
Subaru Legacy RS Group A
Subaru Leone Group A
Subaru Leone RX Turbo Group B
Subaru RX Turbo Group A
Subaru Vivio Sedan 4WD Group A
Subaru XT 4WD Turbo Group B

History of Subaru in the World Rally Championship

Subaru, the Japanese automobile manufacturer renowned for its rally heritage and iconic performance models, has left an indelible mark on the World Rally Championship (WRC) through its commitment to performance, innovative engineering, and the achievements of standout drivers.

Subaru's rallying journey began in the 1980s, gaining traction with models like the Subaru Legacy RS and the Subaru Impreza. These cars, equipped with turbocharged engines and all-wheel-drive systems, showcased Subaru's dedication to developing competitive rally machines. The Impreza, in particular, became synonymous with Subaru's rallying success and technical excellence.

One of Subaru's defining moments in the WRC came in the 1990s, when the Impreza made its debut. The Impreza's combination of robustness, agility, and power quickly made it a force to be reckoned with on rally stages worldwide. Driver Colin McRae, known for his aggressive driving style and fearless approach, played a pivotal role in Subaru's early successes. McRae's victory at the 1995 World Rally Championship, where he became the first British driver to win the title, elevated Subaru to new heights in the sport.

Subaru's dominance continued with drivers like Richard Burns and Petit Solberg. Burns secured the 2001 Driver's Championship, showcasing his precision and consistency behind the wheel of the Impreza. Solberg, known for his flamboyant driving style and daring maneuvers, added further victories to Subaru's tally, including memorable wins at events like the Rally New Zealand and the Rally Great Britain.

Despite its triumphs, Subaru's rallying journey was not without its challenges and crashes. The demanding nature of the sport often pushed drivers and machines to their limits, resulting in incidents that tested Subaru's resilience and engineering prowess. These moments underscored the risks involved in rallying and the determination required to compete at the highest level.

Subaru's participation in the WRC also highlighted its commitment to innovation and performance. Technologies developed for the Impreza rally car, such as advanced all-wheel-drive systems and turbocharged engines, found their way into Subaru's production vehicles, enhancing their performance and reliability on the road.

Subaru's legacy in the World Rally Championship is defined by its pioneering spirit, competitive success, and the enduring legacy of drivers like Colin McRae, Richard Burns, and Petter Solberg. The Impreza's dominance and Subaru's championship-winning performances continue to inspire rally enthusiasts and showcase Subaru's passion for motorsport and performance engineering.