With the latter point in mind, the Baja's 1,581 - 1,610 kg (3,485 - 3,549 lb) curb weight, depending on transmission choice, is a lot of heft for its 160 lb-ft of torque to deal with. Load an automatic transmission equipped version up with four occupants and a pile of gear and scaling the big hills it was designed to conquer might be an arduous task.
That said its interior accommodations will be comfortable no matter how fast you're going. Standard features include air-conditioning, power windows, power door locks with keyless entry, cruise control, tilt steering, a 6-way power driver's seat with lumbar support, 4-speaker AM/FM/CD audio system, power glass sunroof and leather steering wheel, shifter and seats. That's an amazing amount of off-the-rack equipment.
One thing is for sure, there will be few mistaking the Baja for anything but a Subaru. From the front it looks much like the midsize Outback, although a unique grille and large 'Silver Stone' colored lower fascia incorporating massive fog lamps separate the two. The bulging cladding continues around the sides and back giving the little ute a Tonka toy appearance, perfect for the young, hip audience Subaru is targeting.
But wait a minute. Can the mountain biking, windsurfing crowd that wants one afford it? The too cool PT Cruiser sells well because of its low 20K price point. The Pontiac Aztek arguably hasn't faired as well because of its much higher price - styling might have something to do with its poor sales as well. Subaru wants to stretch this demographics nominal dollars further still with a base price starting at $35,595. Whew! Add an automatic and the price starts at $36,695. That's a lot of coin for someone in an entry or mid level job.