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Underrated Lookers: The Subaru SVX

August 29, 2011 by Matt

Subaru SVX

This one taps into my inner nerd.

Was there ever a more spaceship-looking car? The strip of lights on the front, the fighter canopy, the Battlestar Galactica rear end… Just add a pair of S-foils in attack position and a few photon torpedo launchers, and you’re set to defend the galaxy or something. Of course, the element that grabs everyone’s attention is the “window-within-a-window” side glass treatment, carried over whole hog from the concept car the SVX was based on.

Subaru SVX Rear

Ironically, in spite of the obvious (and possibly intentional) sci-fi styling overtones, it’s actually a very handsome car. The proportions are nicely done, with just a hint of wedge in profile, entirely appropriate for a GT. And for all the derision heaped upon the exterior, it’s not nearly as gimmicky or chintzy as the 3000GT/Stealth twins, with their bumps, fins, side strakes and spoilers halfway up the rear glass. The SVX’s styling is actually cohesive and unique; it’s not an otherwise normal-looking car with half a dozen tacked-on geegaws—everything has a context, and I admire that about it.

Even if it does look like the spaceship car from The Last Starfighter. Not that there’s anything wrong with that.

Editor’s note: This post is part of an ongoing series featuring cars whose design I find appealing, in contrast to mainstream opinion. Read the other installments here:

Filed under: Aesthetics, Subaru, Underrated Lookers

2 Comments

  1. Clint says:

    The very reason I’ve been so compelled to this car is for its very spacey look. I think the OEM wheels they come with kind of kill the overall image. Lexus SC430 rims seems to really set the SVX off and over the top for the space craft look.

    • Matt says:

      Clint,

      Can’t say I’m a huge fan of the SC430 wheels + SVX combo, but I do agree that it really gives the car a completely otherworldly look!

      You have some great SVX pictures on your page. Do you own one?

      Thanks for commenting!

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