Ah, yes… the Subaru logo. That car logo with stars. The Subaru logo is more than just a symbol and holds a deep connection to the brand’s history and values. In this article, we will explore the Subaru emblem meaning and shed light on the symbolism behind the six stars and how they reflect the company’s Japanese heritage, its corporate evolution, and its commitment to innovation. Read on as we uncover the rich story behind one of the most recognizable car logos in the world.
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Also Read: What’s the Difference Between Used and Certified Pre-Owned Subaru Vehicles?
The Subaru Logo and Meaning
The Subaru logo is a distinctive and meaningful design that incorporates both celestial and corporate symbolism, reflecting the brand’s heritage and values. Below are its key elements:
Subaru Meaning
The word “Subaru” is Japanese for “unite”. The logo’s six stars represent the five companies that merged to form Fuji Heavy Industries, the parent company of Subaru, and the sixth star represents Fuji Heavy Industries itself.
The Star Cluster (Pleiades)
The Subaru logo features six stars, arranged in a distinctive pattern that represents the Pleiades star cluster. The Pleiades, often referred to as the “Seven Sisters,” is a group of stars located in the Taurus constellation.
In Japan, the Pleiades is known as Subaru, and this is where the company derives its name. The stars are often associated with Japanese mythology, representing sisters or deities in various stories.
While the cluster contains seven stars, only six are represented in the logo. The seventh star is often considered too faint to be seen with the naked eye, which ties into the symbolism of the central star being the most prominent.
Corporate Significance (Merging of Companies)
The Subaru logo also reflects the company’s corporate history. Subaru is the automobile division of Subaru Corporation (formerly known as Fuji Heavy Industries). The six stars symbolize the five companies that merged to form Fuji Heavy Industries in 1953.
The central star represents Subaru itself, as the leading company in the group, with the other stars surrounding it symbolizing the supporting companies that made up the merger.
Design and Symbolism
The clean, simple, and symmetrical design of the logo reflects Subaru’s values of precision and engineering. It exudes a sense of modernity and reliability, emphasizing the company’s focus on innovation, safety, and performance.
The stars are arranged in a way that forms a subtle “S” shape, which is a visual reference to Subaru’s name and its connection to the automotive industry.
Color and Texture
Traditionally, the Subaru logo has been depicted in blue and silver. The blue color signifies trust, dependability, and reliability, which are core qualities that Subaru wants to convey to its customers. This color also represents the sea and the sky as background behind the stars.
Silver or metallic accents symbolize quality, sophistication, and technological advancement—values that Subaru strives for in its vehicles, particularly in terms of engineering and safety.
Japanese Culture
In Japan, the Pleiades star cluster is significant not only in astronomy but also in traditional Japanese culture. It’s associated with the changing of seasons and agricultural cycles, representing renewal and growth, which is reflected in Subaru’s focus on continual innovation and progress.
Where Did Subaru Originate?
As you can tell by now (if you read everything above), Subaru originated in Japan. It is the automobile manufacturing division of Subaru Corporation, formerly known as Fuji Heavy Industries, which was founded in 1953. The company’s first car, the Subaru 1500, was introduced in 1954, marking the start of its automotive production. Subaru has since become known for its innovative features and focus on safety and reliability.
Are Subaru Cars Really That Good?
Subaru cars have earned a strong reputation for their reliability, safety, and performance. One of the standout features that makes Subaru vehicles exceptional is their all-wheel-drive (AWD) system, which comes standard on most models. This feature provides superior traction and stability, especially in challenging weather conditions like snow or rain, making Subaru a popular choice for those living in regions with harsh climates. Additionally, Subaru vehicles are built with durability in mind, often lasting for hundreds of thousands of miles when properly maintained, earning them high marks for long-term reliability.
Another reason Subaru cars are highly regarded is their commitment to safety. Subaru’s EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, which includes features like adaptive cruise control and pre-collision braking, enhances driver awareness and reduces the likelihood of accidents. The company has consistently earned high safety ratings from organizations like the IIHS and NHTSA, making Subaru a trusted brand for families and safety-conscious drivers. Subaru’s focus on safety aligns with the symbolism behind the Subaru logo, which features six stars representing the Pleiades star cluster. The logo is not only a nod to the company’s Japanese heritage but also symbolizes Subaru’s commitment to providing a guiding light of safety and reliability for its customers.
In terms of design, Subaru cars combine ruggedness with a comfortable driving experience. With a focus on practicality, the brand offers a range of vehicles, from compact cars like the Impreza to larger SUVs like the Outback and Forester, catering to a variety of lifestyles.
What are the Most Notable Subaru Vehicles to Date?
Subaru has produced several notable best selling models over the years, each known for its reliability, performance, and distinctive features. Among the most iconic is the Subaru Outback, a crossover SUV that has gained a loyal following due to its all-wheel-drive capability, high ground clearance, and ruggedness. The Outback is perfect for those seeking adventure, whether in the mountains or off-road, yet it also serves as a practical family vehicle with ample cargo space and comfort. This blend of versatility and durability aligns with the symbolism of the Subaru logo, which reflects the brand’s commitment to innovation and leading the way in automotive design.
Another standout model is the Subaru Forester, a compact SUV that combines practicality with off-road capability. Known for its spacious interior, excellent visibility, and safety features, the Forester is a popular choice for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Subaru’s EyeSight Driver Assist Technology is a notable inclusion in this model, enhancing safety with adaptive cruise control and pre-collision braking. The Forester, much like the Subaru logo which symbolizes leadership with its central star, represents Subaru’s commitment to leading the market in both safety and innovation.
Last but not least, the Subaru WRX is a performance-oriented model, with a rich motorsport heritage that makes it a fan favorite among car enthusiasts. The WRX features a turbocharged engine, sport-tuned suspension, and all-wheel drive, offering exhilarating driving performance, especially on challenging roads. Its connection to Subaru’s rally roots is evident in its handling and agility, making it an iconic vehicle for those who crave speed and precision.
Final Thoughts
The Subaru logo is a powerful representation of the brand’s history, values, and commitment to innovation. Understanding the Subaru emblem meaning reveals the connection to the Pleiades star cluster, the company’s corporate evolution, and its dedication to leading the automotive industry. The Subaru logo serves as a reminder of the company’s roots and its vision for the future.
Now that you know all that, the next time someone asks, “what’s the car with stars on?”, you know what to answer!
And if you’ve had it with your problematic car, feel free to browse our collection of reliable used vehicles and certified pre-owned ones!
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