1990-1994 Subaru Justy: Overview

Updated: 11/23/08

1990 Subaru Justy
1994 Subaru Justy
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1990-1994 Subaru Justy

  • Price Range:  $0 - $900
CG Rating

33

out of 100

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Pros

  • Fuel economy
  • Maneuverability
  • 4WD traction (GL)

Cons

  • Noise
  • Rear-seat room
  • Ride
  • Entry/exit

Vehicle Highlights

Through its lifespan, Subaru's minicompact was perhaps best known for its available electronically controlled variable-transmission. Dubbed ECVT, it offered an infinite spread of gear ratios. Although the basic idea had surfaced decades earlier, and was used on the Dutch-built DAF in the 1960s, Subaru was unique for offering it in the U.S. market at this time. Introduced in early 1987, the Justy initially came only as a 2-door hatchback. A 4-door hatchback joined for 1990, on the same 90-inch wheelbase. Both came with either front-wheel drive or on-demand 4-wheel drive. All models except the base Justy got a 73-horsepower fuel-injected engine for 1990, instead of the carbureted 66-horsepower 3-cylinder. Fuel-injected models got a new intermediate front driveshaft to help reduce "torque steer." A new "Fun Justy" appearance package was introduced for the 2-door model. Having debuted in 1989, the ECVT unit was now available on 4WD models as well as those with front-drive. With ECVT, a metal belt connects two pulleys that continuously vary the ratio of engine speed to driveshaft speed. Operation can be described as similar to a dimmer switch, as opposed to a 3-way light switch. Justy also was available with an ordinary 5-speed manual transmission.

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Expert Ratings Summary (view detailed report)

Category Subaru Justy Rating
Performance 2
Fuel Economy 7
Ride Quality 4
Steering/Handling/Braking 3
Quietness 2
Controls/Materials 3
Interior Room 4
Room/Comfort (rear) 3
Cargo Capacity 2
Value within Class 3
Total Score: 33

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