Subaru SVX
The Subaru SVX represented the company's most ambitious project, a luxury grand touring coupe designed by Giorgetto Giugiaro. The distinctive styling featured a unique window-within-window design with fixed outer glass and smaller opening inner windows. Power came from a sophisticated 3.3-liter DOHC flat-six producing 230 hp and 228 lb-ft, Subaru's first and only six-cylinder boxer. Standard all-wheel drive provided excellent traction and stability. The SVX offered genuine GT capabilities with comfortable two-plus-two seating, advanced features including four-wheel steering (on some models), and refined road manners. Unfortunately, it was handicapped by an automatic-only transmission in most markets - no manual was offered in the USA. The complex mechanicals and unique design made it expensive to produce, limiting sales. Despite strong reviews praising its performance and comfort, the SVX failed commercially with just 24,379 units sold worldwide. Today it's appreciated as a fascinating what-if moment and remains affordable despite its sophistication.
Values remain low despite limited production. Look for well-maintained examples with transmission service history. Automatic transmission condition is critical - rebuilds are expensive. Check for head gasket leaks. Verify window mechanisms work properly. JDM manual transmission cars command premium but are rare. Four-wheel steering models interesting but risky due to complexity. Complete service history important. Budget for specialist maintenance. Join SVX clubs for parts leads. Don't expect significant appreciation. Consider as affordable exotic rather than investment.