The base engine was a horizontally opposed 4 cylinder 2.5 liter that produced a decent 165 horsepower and 166 ft. lbs. of torque.  The optional engine introduced in 2004 was a horizontally opposed 4 cylinder 2.5 liter that was enhanced with a turbocharger. The end result was a nice climb from the base 165 horsepower to 210 horsepower and 235 ft. lbs. of torque.

The transmission options were the automatic 4 speed or the 5 speed manual. Depending on the engine and transmission the gas mileage varied. The automatic transmission with the base engine would get 21/28 mpg and the base model with the manual transmission in close running was 21/27 mpg. As for the higher power turbo model the mileage dropped a little bit showing that the automatic would achieve 18/23 mpg, and the manual 19/25 mpg.

The Baja could comfortably seat four people in the cab. Not only did the Baja offer the convenience of all wheel drive it also had a small truck like bed for hauling. Some of the safety features were child safety locks on the rear doors, 4 wheel anti lock brakes, driver airbag, passenger airbag, and passenger airbag cutoff switch/sensor. It also offered an integrated bed liner, a tow rating of 2,400 lbs, bed tie down hooks,

The Baja in many ways followed the footsteps of the Subaru Brat. The turbo model requires more frequent oil change intervals due to the turbocharger. The maintenance schedule states at 75,000 miles change rear diff. fluid, front diff fluid and the filter and or screen for the automatic transmission/transaxle. Also you will need to change the air filter and oil. Subaru Baja parts can be found at any parts store.

Pictures of the Subaru Baja