- 356cc EK31 Engine
- Rear-Engine Layout
- Tokyo Show Debut
- 3-Speed Manual
- Versatile Van Configuration
- Compact Urban Navigator
SUBARU SAMBAR MINI TRUCK: A COMPREHENSIVE GUIDE
Subaru’s Sambar has attained iconic status in the kei world since its 1961 debut as both a truck and microvan. Its initial generation, produced from 1961 to 1966, was based on Subaru’s 360—a kei car unveiled in 1958 that subsequently became the automaker’s first mass-produced vehicle. One of the Sambar’s most distinguishing characteristics was its use of a rear-mounted engine paired with a rear-wheel drive (RWD) layout in its first six generations, which ran through 2012 and were all manufactured by Subaru. On the contrary, many competitors used a mid-engined cab-over layout. We’ll talk more about what happened when Subaru stopped making the Sambar in 2012 below, in addition to the model’s key developments, including supercharged engines, regulation adaptations, styling progressions, comfort upgrades, and utility optimization.
1961-1966: First-Generation Subaru Sambar K153 - The Dawn of the Kei Truck Revolution
KEY HIGHLIGHTS
ENGINE DETAILS
- 356 CC EK31 TWO-STROKE I2
- 18 hp
SIZE SPECIFICATIONS
- Height:: 59.8 inches
- Length: 117.7 inches
- Width: 51.2 Inches
VEHICLE WEIGHT
- 871 LB - 1040 LB
The first-generation Subaru Sambar was initially revealed to the public at the 1960 Tokyo Motor Show in the event’s passenger and commercial vehicles section. Basing the Sambar on the 360, which included borrowing engine components from the 360, allowed Subaru to manufacture the Sambar at lower costs and pass savings onto consumers. Subaru wanted to transfer the 360’s pleasant and stable ride feel to a new model offering additional utility. During its run, the first-generation Sambar had the lowest deck body and most spacious cargo bed of any competing four-wheel mini truck. This debut version had an independent 4-wheel suspension, RWD, and a 356cc 2-cylinder motor producing 18 horsepower. Power was transferred through a 3-speed manual transmission, and the model’s low weight of around 871 lbs helped compensate for its engine’s modest output.
Subaru primarily marketed the Sambar truck toward commercial segments needing delivery vehicles—especially ones that could navigate narrow streets. The Sambar microvan was launched as a vehicle for both commercial and leisure purposes. In the larger picture, first-generation Sambars played a vital role in helping Subaru establish a reputation for manufacturing light passenger vehicles.
Unveiling the Chassis Codes: 1st Gen Subaru Sambar Truck & Van
Start your journey of becoming a Subaru Sambar expert by checking out the distinctive chassis codes representing this model’s trim levels and specifications.
| Chassis Code | K153 |
K153 |
| Drivetrain | RWD |
RWD |
| Powertrain | 356 CC EK31 TWO-STROKE I2 |
356 CC EK31 TWO-STROKE I2 |
| Vehicle Type | Truck |
Van |
1966-1973: Subaru Sambar - Bigger, Bolder, and Better
KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- 356cc EK33/EK34 Engine (2 Cyl, air-cooled,two-stroke)
- Rear-Engine, Rear-wheel-drive (RR) layout
- Tokyo Show Debut
- 3-Speed Manual Transmission Stard (4-Speed optional)
- Max Output: 26 PS (25.6 hp)
- Independent semi-trailing arm suspension front and rear.
ENGINE DETAILS
- 356 CC EK33/EK34 2 Cyl, air-cooled, two-stroke
- Power: 25-26 hp (19-20kW) @ 5,800 rpm
- Torque: 3.6 kg·m (26lb-ft) @ 4,500 RPM
SIZE SPECIFICATIONS
- Height:: 60.8 inches (1545 mm)
- Length: 117.9 inches (2,995 mm)
- Width: 51.0 Inches (1,295 mm)
- Wheelbase: 68.9 inches (1,750 mm)
VEHICLE WEIGHT
- 1,025 lbs for the pickup/1,179 lbs for the van
Nicknamed “New Sambar” and “Babaan Sambar,” the second-generation of this model contained a more contemporary decorative front grille forming a clean look, a raised roof improving passenger comfort, and a padded dashboard increasing safety. Starting in 1970, the Sambar truck and van featured conventionally hinged front doors instead of rear-hinged. The engine remained the same from the previous generation, but in 1970, it also introduced a reed valve, increasing horsepower to 25.6.
The motor was accessible from the outside, facilitating easier maintenance and repairs, and the base model retained a 3-speed manual transmission. Subaru also offered an auxiliary transmission with six forward speeds and two reverse speeds as an option. The curb weight ranged from 1,025 lbs for the pickup to 1,179 lbs for the van, marking an increase over the previous generation. The second-generation Sambar’s primary rivals were Mazda’s Porter and Honda’s Vamos.
Behind the Numbers: K71 Chassis
Subaru distinguished second-generation Sambars from the preceding generation with the following chassis codes.
| Chassis Code | K71 |
K81 |
| Drivetrain | RWD |
RWD |
| Powertrain | EK33 - 2-cylinder, air-cooled 356cc engine |
EK33 - 2-cylinder, air-cooled 356cc engine |
| Vehicle Type | Truck |
Van |
1973-1982: Third-Generation Subaru Sambar - Unleashing the Miniature Hercules
KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- 356cc Water-Cooled Engine
- Dual Sliding Doors (Van)
SIZE SPECIFICATIONS
- Body Height: 72.8 inches
- Body Length: 125.8 inches
- Body Width: 55.9 inches
TECHINICAL BREAKDOWN
- Engine: EK34 356cc 2-Cylinder, 2-Stroke, Air-cooled.
- Engine Ek21 I2 358 cc.
- Horsepower: 28 hp
The third-generation Sambar, known as the “Gouriki Sambar,” debuted in 1973 and switched from an air-cooled engine (EK31) to a water-cooled, two-cylinder, two-stroke engine (EK34), which was the model’s most powerful engine to date. Early third-generation models retained the 356cc displacement, but in February 1976, the engine was updated to the 358cc, water-cooled, two-cylinder, two-stroke EK21 motor. Subaru primarily introduced the EK21 to help meet stricter emissions standards. A few months later, a 490cc EK22 engine was introduced for export models. Domestic models remained within kei displacement limits.
In 1977, new kei regulations forced Subaru to expand the Sambar’s body width, which led to the 550cc EK23 engine (K77 type) producing around 28 horsepower. Other changes to the exterior included the introduction of sliding doors, an electronically-operated windshield washer, and the single tail lamp being replaced by orange rear indicator lamps. In 1979, the Sambar van and truck debuted an optional panoramic roof and 4WD. The 4WD model was especially popular among farmers for its drivability on rough roads and steep grades, which led to the “Farming Sambar” variant’s release in 1981.
Decoding the Third-Generation Sambar: Truck and Van Chassis Insights
Check out the innovative third-generation Sambar’s chassis codes representing adventure, agricultural utility, and daily usability.
| Chassis Code | K71 |
K81 |
K75 |
K76 |
K85 |
K77/K87 |
| Drivetrain | RWD |
RWD |
RWD |
RWD |
RWD |
4WD |
| Powertrain |
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Vehicle Type | Truck |
Van |
Truck |
Panel Van |
Van |
Truck/Van |
1982-1990: Enter the Fourth Dynasty of Subaru Sambar - The Power-Packed Decade
KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- 544cc EK23 Engine
- MacPherson Strut Suspension
- Dual-Range 4WD
- Four Valve : 28 hp
- Six-Valve Upgrade (34 hp) - late 1989 models only.
- Retracting Seatbelts Standard
SIZE SPECIFICATIONS
Truck
- Body Height: 65.0 nches
- Body Length: 125.8 inches
- Body Width: 54.9 inches
SIZE SPECIFICATIONS
Van
- Body Height: 74.8 inches
- Body Length: 125.8 inches
- Body Width: 54.9 inches
TECHNICAL BREAKDOWN
EK23 Engine
- Engine: 544 cc, 2-cylinder, water-cooled, four-stroke (EK23)
Export Model (Subaru 700)
- Engine: 665 cc, 2-cylinder, water-cooled, four-stroke (EK23 enlarged)
Later Models (1989)
- Engine: 544 cc, 2-cylinder, six-valve EK23
In September 1982, Subaru released the “Sambar Try” as a minivan model. The 4-wheel independent suspension system retained its design, but Subaru changed the front suspension layout in its 4WD variants from a semi-trailing system to a Macpherson Strut system. However, 2WD trims continued using the semi-trailing system, along with 10-inch tires. All 4WD models contained 12-inch tires, robust 4-wheel drum brakes, and an extra-low gear in their manual transmissions.
There was no optional automatic transmission except for the Try FL and FX, but the High Roof option was present in both 2WD and 4WD variants for added comfort. Smaller changes introduced in 1986 consisted of retractable seat belts and enhanced body graphics and appearance packages. The fourth generation’s “free-running full-time 4WD” was available later in 1987, and the design was significant with its consistent 4WD capability on high-traction surfaces without drivetrain binding or excessive wear. It was also during this year that 4WD Sambars also received ventilated front disc brakes, the first ever installed in kei trucks and vans.
Unlocking the Chassis Codes: The Fourth-Generation Sambar Truck & Van
Subaru’s 4th-generation Sambar was significant in that it redefined a kei truck’s possibilities. Below, you’ll find a list of engineered chassis codes—each of which played distinct roles in helping reshape the kei class. Instead of mostly minor design tweaks, 1982-1990 Sambars mechanical revamp helped kei trucks and vans keep pace with an evolving world.
| Chassis Code | KT1 |
KT2 |
KT6 |
KR1 |
KR2 |
KR6 |
| Drivetrain | 2WD |
4WD |
4WD |
2WD |
4WD |
4WD |
| Powertrain | EK23 544 cc, 2-cylinder, water-cooled, four-stroke |
EK23 544 cc, 2-cylinder, water-cooled, four-stroke |
EK23 (later models could have the 6-valve version) 544 cc, 2-cylinder, water-cooled, four-stroke |
EK23 544 cc, 2-cylinder, water-cooled, four-stroke |
EK23 544 cc, 2-cylinder, water-cooled, four-stroke |
EK23 (later models could have the 6-valve version) 544 cc, 2-cylinder, water-cooled, four-stroke |
| Vehicle Type | Truck |
Truck |
Truck |
Van |
Van |
Van |
1990-1999: The Fifth Generation Sambar – Subaru’s Pocket Rocket Kei Truck
KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- 660cc EN07 Engine
- Supercharged Option Available
- Push-Button 4WD
- ECVT Transmission Replaced in 1995
- 7.5-Inch Ground Clearance
SIZE SPECIFICATIONS : TRUCK
- Body Height: 69.3 in
- Body Length: 129.7 in
- Body Width: 54.9 in
SIZE SPECIFICATIONS : VAN
- Body Height: 74.6 in
- Body Length: 129.7 in
- Body Width: 54.9 in
TECHINCAL BREAKDOWN
Standard EN07 Engine, Carbureted
- Engine: 658 cc, 4-cylinder, water-cooled, four-stroke (EN07)
- Horsepower: 39.4 hp
- Torque: 39 lb-ft
- Cargo Capacity: 771 lbs
- Top Speed: 70 Mph
Supercharged Model EN07 Engine, Fuel Injected
- Engine: 658 cc, 4-cylinder, water-cooled, four-stroke (EN07, Supercharged)
- Horsepower: 54.3 hp
- Torque 54.6 lb-ft
- Top Speed: 75 mph
- Cargo Capacity 771 lbs
Special Edition / EMPi Model (1995)
- Engine: 658 cc, 4-cylinder, water-cooled, four-stroke (EN07, EMPi version)
- Horsepower: 45.4 hp
- Torque: 41 lb-ft
- Top Speed: 70 mph
- Cargo Capacity 771 lbs
The fifth-generation Subaru Sambar, introduced in 1990 and running through 1999, adapted to new kei regulations by increasing the model’s engine displacement to 660cc. These Sambars shared the Subaru Vivio’s EN07 engine, which was a 4-cylinder in-line motor. Supercharged models produced about 55 horsepower with the EN07Y type engine, and naturally-aspirated versions delivered about 40 horsepower via the EN07C type engine, which included a carburetor.
The Domingo kei van, launched in 1983, experienced a full model change in 1994 using the new Sambar design along with Subaru Justy’s EF12 SOHC three-cylinder 1200 cc engine. Subaru built the model’s front suspension on ventilated disc brakes and the Macpherson Strut suspension system. The transmission consisted of a 5-speed manual with an extra low gear and an electronic continuously variable transmission (ECVT).
Fifth-generation Sambar vans were available with either part-time or full-time 4WD capability. When equipped with 4WD, Subaru sold the van as the Dias Wagon trim. The Dias was released as a premium model, Sambar Try and its commercials featured Japanese comedian Kuniko Yamada. A minor design tweak occurred in September 1992 when headlamps were changed to square halogen lights. Seating capacity was capped at seven passengers, and 1993 saw the release of the Sambar Dias Classic—a highly sought-after model.
In 1995, Subaru changed the ECVT transmission in automatic Sambar trucks and vans to a torque converter type 3-speed automatic transmission due to the ECVT’s reliability issues. That same year, both classes received a new EMPi (Electronic Multi-Point Injection) 658cc Clover-4 engine option for naturally aspirated versions producing about 46 horsepower. Subaru would use this engine in Sambars through 2012, and supercharged versions with available fuel injection had 54 horsepower.
Subaru’s first-ever EV: learn its history
An occasionally overlooked point in automotive history was Subaru’s 1995 release of its first-ever electric car, the Sambar EV. Based on the fifth-generation Sambar microvan, this electric vehicle used a single-phase AC 200V charger, providing a full charge in 8 hours. The cruising range was 93 miles when traveling at a constant speed of 24 mph, and the model’s double-floor structure reduced noise. The electric van’s motor and battery placement required a flat cargo space design, and the vehicle’s overall design ethos emphasized comfortable, functional, safe, and clean driving.
Decoding the Fifth Generation: Subaru Sambar Truck and Van Chassis Secrets
Between 1990 and 1999, Subaru’s Sambar moved further beyond straightforward utility by refining its mechanics for more well-rounded daily drives, commercial applications, and off-road utilization. Check out this pivotal generation’s chassis codes below to get a better understanding of its classifications.
| Chassis Code | KS3 |
KS4 |
KV3 |
KV4 |
| Drivetrain | RWD |
4WD |
RWD |
4WD |
| Powertrain | EN07 658 cc, 4-cylinder, water-cooled, four-stroke + Supercharged option |
EN07 658 cc, 4-cylinder, water-cooled, four-stroke + Supercharged option |
EN07 658 cc, 4-cylinder, water-cooled, four-stroke + Supercharged option |
EN07 658 cc, 4-cylinder, water-cooled, four-stroke + Supercharged option |
| Vehicle Type | Truck |
Truck |
Van |
Van |
1999-2012: The Sixth-Generation Subaru Sambar - The Unsung Hero of Urban Navigation
KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- Wider Body Design
- Supercharged 58 HP
- Fuel Injection Standard
- Dual Airbags Included From 2008 onward.
- 3-Speed Automatic Option
- Power Sliding Doors (van) From 2008 onward.
SIZE SPECIFICATIONS:
Truck
- Body Height : 71.75 inches
- Body Length: 133.7 inches
- Body Width: 58.1 inches
Van
- Body Height: 75 inches
- Body Length: 133.7 inches
- Body Width 58.1 inches
TECHNICAL BREAKDOWN
- Rear EN07 Inline 4 SOHC
- Fuel Injection
- Horsepower: 45.32
- Torque: 42.67 lb-ft.
- Cargo Capacity: 770 lbs
Sales success with the fifth-generation Sambar’s turbocharged engine led to Subaru maintaining the powertrain option as part of the sixth-generation lineup. However, the supercharged engine now produced 58 horsepower instead of the last generation’s 54, and the carburetor was removed for naturally aspirated motors. The passenger 4WD Dias microvan standardized using a 3-speed automatic transmission, and minor improvements in August 2001 improved the non-aspirated engines’ output to about 46 horsepower, with tail lens colors shifting from amber to clear.
Other noticeable updates included cabin and exterior changes implemented in response to Japan’s new safety regulations released in 1998. These requirements called for wider bodies that bolstered side impact protection, and Subaru furthered this generation’s safety capabilities by introducing standard dual front passenger airbags in 2008. The sixth-generation Sambar also featured power sliding rear doors, power windows, power seating, and leather interiors on upper trim levels from 2008. Drivers experienced improved fuel economy thanks in part to the front’s aerodynamic shape, and regulators noted fewer emissions.
Still, Subaru maintained the Sambar’s full cab shape—a distinguishing factor from many competitors who used a semi-cab design. The sixth-generation Sambar underwent two minor facelifts, primarily providing visual and functional updates to the front fascia and instrument cluster. The first wave of these changes focused on modernizing front fascia elements like headlamps, while the second alteration in 2005 prioritized a meter panel redesign for better visibility, updated graphics, and a new layout. The sixth-generation Sambar ultimately became more eco-friendly and contemporary within the kei truck class without compromising its trademark utility. Subaru’s parent company, named Fuji Heavy until 2017, discontinued the Sambar’s production on February 28, 2012. Subsequent Sambars wore Subaru’s nameplate, but Daihatsu manufactured the models.
Sixth-Generation Subaru Sambar and Every Van Chassis Codes
Between 1999 and 2012, Subaru Sambar lineup evolved under the following series of distinct chassis codes and trim levels.
| Chassis Code | TT1 |
TT2 |
TV1 |
TV2 |
TW1 |
TW2 |
| Drivetrain | 2WD |
4WD |
2WD |
4WD |
2WD |
4WD |
| Powertrain | EN07F (Naturally Aspirated EMPi) / EN07V (Naturally Aspirated SPI) / EN07Y (supercharger EMPi) |
EN07F (Naturally Aspirated EMPi) / EN07V (Naturally Aspirated SPI) / EN07Y (supercharger EMPi) |
EN07F (Naturally Aspirated EMPi) / EN07V (Naturally Aspirated SPI) / EN07Y (supercharger EMPi) |
EN07F (Naturally Aspirated EMPi) / EN07V (Naturally Aspirated SPI) / EN07Y (supercharger EMPi) |
EN07F with EMPi / EN07Y supercharger EMPi / EN07V (Naturally Aspirated SPI) |
EN07F with EMPi / EN07Y supercharger EMPi / EN07V (Naturally Aspirated SPI) |
| Vehicle Type | Truck |
Truck |
Van |
Van |
Van |
Van |
2012-2014: Seventh-Generation Subaru Sambar Truck (70)
KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- Modern, wider body design
- 660cc DOHC 3-cylinder engine (KF-VE, naturally aspirated; KF-DET, turbo in some trims)
- Selectable 4WD or rear-wheel drive
- Dual airbags included
- 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission options
- Improved safety and comfort features
- Power steering and air condition avaliable.
SIZE SPECIFICATIONS
- Body Height: 70.1–76 inches (1,780–1,930 mm)
- Body Length: 133.7 inches (3,395 mm
- Body Width: 58.1 inches (1,475 mm)
- Wheelbase: 96.5 inches (2,450 mm)
- Ground Clearance: 6-7 inches
- Wheelbase: 96.5 inches (2,450 mm)
TECHNICAL BREAKDOWN
- Engine: 660cc KF-VE DOHC 3-cylinder (naturally aspirated) or KF-DET DOHC 3-cylinder (turbo)
- Horsepower: 50–64 PS (49–63 HP), depending on variant
- Torque: 64–103 Nm (47–76 lb-ft), depending on variant
- Cargo Capacity: 600–1,000 lbs (approximate)
- Fuel Injection: Electronic fuel injection standard.
- Transmission: 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic
- Drive System: Rear-wheel drive or selectable 4WD
- Suspension: Front MacPherson strut, rear leaf spring
- Fuel Tank: 9.5 gallons (36 liters)
- Fuel Economy: 25-40 mpg (varies by use and configuration)
VEHICLE WEIGHT
- Curb Weight: 1,940–2,160 lbs (880–980 kg)
The seventh-generation Subaru Sambar truck debuted in Japan on April 2, 2012, as a rebadged version of the Daihatsu Hijet. One of this period’s most notable changes was the Sambar ditching its rear-engine, RWD layout to adopt a front-mounted engine positioned between the front seats, forming a semi-cab-over design.
Seventh-generation Sambar trucks contained a 660cc DOHC 3-cylinder engine (KF-VE) while offering RWD, optional 4WD, and a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission. Optional dual airbags and improved crash protection bolstered safety, and all models were assembled at Daihatsu’s facilities in Japan.
Seventh-Generation Subaru Sambar Truck Chassis Codes
Key-in on seventh-generation Sambar truck chassis codes with the information below.
| Chassis Code | S500J |
S510J |
| Drivetrain | 2WD |
4WD |
| Powertrain | KF-VE 660cc DOHC 3-cylinder EFI |
KF-VE 660cc DOHC 3-cylinder EFI |
| Vehicle Type | Truck |
Truck |
2009-2022: Seventh-Generation Subaru Sambar Van (Dias Wagon) (70)
KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- Modern, wider body design
- 660cc DOHC 3-cylinder engine (KF-VE, naturally aspirated; KF-DET, turbo in some trims)
- Electronic Fuel Injection Standard
- Avaliablle all-wheel drive (AWD) and front-wheel drive
- Dual airbags included on upper trims
- 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission options
- Improved safety and comfort features
- Power steering and air condition available.
- Smart Assist safety features avaliable on later models
SIZE SPECIFICATIONS
- Body Height: 74.8–75 inches (1,900–1,905 mm)
- Body Length: 133.7 inches (3,395 mm)
- Body Width: 58.1 inches (1,475 mm)
- Wheelbase: 90.7 inches (2,450 mm)
- Ground Clearance: 6-7 inches
- Wheelbase: 96.5 inches (2,450 mm)
TECHNICAL BREAKDOWN
- Engine: 658cc KF-VE DOHC 3-cylinder (naturally aspirated), turbocharged available
- Horsepower: 50–64 PS (49–63 HP), depending on variant
- Torque: 60–92 Nm (44–68 lb-ft) depending on variant
- Cargo Capacity: Up to 770 lbs (varies by trim and seating)
- Fuel Injection: Electronic fuel injection
- Transmission: 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic
- Drive System: FWD or AWD
- Suspension: Front MacPherson strut, rear leaf spring
- Fuel Tank: 9.5 gallons (36 liters)
- Fuel Economy: 13–18 km/L (approx. 31–42 mpg)
VEHICLE WEIGHT
- Curb Weight: 1,610–2,226 lbs (730–1,010 kg)
Seventh-generation Subaru Sambar vans launched in September 2009 as a rebadged version of the Daihatsu Atrai van. Like its truck counterpart, the seventh-generation Sambar van integrated a semi-cab-over layout with a front-mounted engine positioned between the front seats instead of a rear-engine configuration.
The powertrain, available in turbocharged or naturally aspirated versions, included a 660cc DOHC 3-cylinder KF-VE engine. Drivers could choose from 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmissions, and RWD or AWD. Commercial variants of the seventh-generation Subaru Sambar van were available, but the model was primarily marketed as a passenger vehicle.
Seventh-Generation Subaru Sambar Van Chassis Codes
While the eighth-generation truck launched in 2014, the seventh-generation van’s production ran through 2022 using the following chassis codes.
| Chassis Code | S321N |
S331N |
| Drivetrain | 2WD (FR) |
AWD |
| Powertrain | KF-VE 658cc DOHC 3-cylinder EFI (NA/Turbo) |
KF-VE 658cc DOHC 3-cylinder EFI (NA/Turbo) |
| Vehicle Type | Van |
Van |
2014-Present: Eighth-Generation Subaru Sambar Truck
KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- Modern cab-over design
- 660cc DOHC 3-cylinder KF-VE engine
- Electronic Fuel Injection Standard
- Selectable 4WD or rear-wheel drivee
- Dual airbags (driver and passenger)
- 5-speed manual and 3-speed automatic transmission options
- Improved safety and comfort features
- Power steering and air condition available.
- Smart Assist safety features available (lane departure warning, pre-collision braking)
- Improved ride comfort and safety over previous generation
SIZE SPECIFICATIONS
- Body Height: 70.1–76 inches (1,780–1,930 mm)
- Body Length: 133.7 inches (3,395 mm)
- Body Width: 58.1 inches (1,475 mm)
- Wheelbase: 96.5 inches (2,450 mm)
TECHNICAL BREAKDOWN
- Engine: KF-VE 660cc DOHC 3-cylinder
- Horsepower: 50–53 PS (49–52 HP) at 5,700–7,200 rpm
- Torque: 60 Nm (44 lb-ft) at 4,000 rpm
- Cargo Capacity: Up to 870 lbs (395 kg)
- Fuel Injection: Electronic fuel injection
- Transmission: 5-speed manual or 3-speed automatic
- Drive System:Rear-wheel drive (2WD) or selectable 4WD
- Suspension: Front MacPherson strut, rear leaf spring
- Fuel Tank: 9.5 gallons (36 liters)
- Fuel Economy: 17–19 km/L (40–45 mpg, varies by configuration)
VEHICLE WEIGHT
- Curb Weight: 1,630–1,785 lbs (740–810 kg)
The eighth-generation Subaru Sambar truck featured a 660cc KF-VE DOHC 3-cylinder engine. Transmission options consisted of a manual five-speed and an automatic CVT. RWD was standard, with AWD offered as optional. Daihatsu continued evolving the Sambar truck’s driver assistance specs by introducing and improving systems that include but weren’t limited to crash avoidance braking, adaptive cruise control, smart rear-view mirror, and lane-keep assist. This generation’s 2022 facelift brought headlights with better illumination, a more robust bumper, enhanced instrumentation, and higher-quality air conditioning.
Eigth-Generation Subaru Sambar Truck Chassis Codes
Step into the modern kei world with the chassis codes of the eighth-generation Sambar truck.
| Chassis Code | S500J |
S510J |
| Drivetrain | 2WD (FR) |
4WD |
| Powertrain | KF-VE 658cc DOHC 3-cylinder EFI |
KF-VE 658cc DOHC 3-cylinder EFI |
| Vehicle Type | Truck |
Truck |
2022-Present: Eighth-Generation Sambar Van
KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- Semi-cabover, boxy design for maximized cargo space
- Front-mounted, fuel-efficient 660cc engine
- Advanced safety: Smart Assist (lane departure, pre-collision braking)
- Power sliding doors and modern cabin amenities on upper trims
- Kei van dimensions for easy urban maneuverability
- Available in both rear-wheel drive (2WD) and all-wheel drive (AWD)
- 2022 facelift with updated styling and tech features
SIZE SPECIFICATIONS
- Body Height: 74.8 inches (1,900 mm)
- Body Length: 133.5 inches (3,395 mm)
- Body Width: 58.1 inches (1,475 mm)
- Wheelbase: 74.4 inches (1,885 mm)
TECHNICAL BREAKDOWN
- Engine: KF-VE, 658cc 3-cylinder DOHC, EFI, naturally aspirated
- Horsepower: 46–53 HP (varies by trim and transmission)
- Torque: 46–46.6 lb-ft (62–63 Nm)
- Cargo Capacity: Up to 870 lbs (395 kg)
- Fuel Injection: Electronic fuel injection
- Transmission: 5-speed manual or CVT automatic
- Drive System: 2WD (FWD) or AWD
- Load Capacity: up to 772 lbs (350 kg)
VEHICLE WEIGHT
- Curb Weight: 1,610–2,227 lbs (730–1,010 kg)
Subaru’s eighth-generation Sambar, manufactured by Daihatsu, contains a front-mounted 660cc KF-VE DOHC 3-cylinder engine and supplies RWD, AWD, CVT, and 5-speed manual options. You’ll also find sliding doors and flexible seating. Pre-collision braking was made available for the first time in the Sambar lineup during this generation.
Eigth-Generation Subaru Sambar Van Chassis Codes
It’s been a journey—but the ride continues. Unlock the eighth-generation Subaru Sambar van’s
| Chassis Code | 3BD-S700B |
3BD-S710B |
5BD-S710B |
| Drivetrain | 2WD |
4WD |
4WD |
| Powertrain | Engine: KF-VE, 658cc 3-cylinder DOHC, EFI, Naturally Aspirated |
Engine: KF-VE, 658cc 3-cylinder DOHC, EFI, Naturally Aspirated / Turbo |
Engine: KF-VE, 658cc 3-cylinder DOHC, EFI, Naturally Aspirated |
| Vehicle Type | Van |
Van |
Van |
We've Got The Sambar Parts You Need
Understanding the history of Subaru’s Sambar is one feat, but knowing where to source different generations’ parts is another. Oiwa Garage gets you on the road and keeps you there with a comprehensive inventory of Sambar parts that includes ‘90-’98 - KS3/KS4 truck and van models in addition to ‘99-’12 TT1/TT2 parts. We neatly organize our catalog with separate pages classifying part types so you don’t have to feel like you’re searching for a needle in a haystack.
Learn About Other Kei vehicles
You’re only scratching the surface of what Kei trucks and vans have to offer. Oiwa Garage specializes in other kei models, such as Honda’s Acty, Daihatsu’s signature Hijet, Suzuki’s Carry, and more. Explore our site’s lineup to gain further insight into how these small trucks deliver in significant ways.
