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Subaru SVX: a rare grand tourer and what to know before buying
Subaru SVX — a two-door coupe produced from 1991 to 1996 and designed by Giorgetto Giugiaro. It's a rare car with a flat-six engine and all-wheel drive. We'll review the model and key points to consider before purchasing.
SVX in brief
The SVX was Subaru's attempt to create a luxury grand tourer. Designed by Giorgetto Giugiaro, it stands out with windows that feature a smaller, opening side glass panel.
Not many were sold, making the SVX a rarity. In Japan, the model was known as the Alcyone SVX.
Versions and markets
The SVX was produced in just one generation with a single powertrain. The main differences lie in the market and equipment packages: cars sold in Japan have right-hand drive, while those in the US have left-hand drive.
In Europe, the SVX was officially sold in very limited numbers, so most examples found in Lithuania were privately imported from Japan or the US.
Engine and transmission
The SVX features a 3.3-litre flat-six engine producing around 230 hp. This was a notable departure from smaller Subaru models of the time.
The transmission is a four-speed automatic, with all-wheel drive. There was no manual option.
What to check when buying a used SVX
Check the operation of the automatic transmission: shifts should be smooth, with no hesitation. Also, inspect the all-wheel-drive system's joints and oil leaks.
Listen to the engine when it's cold and when it's warm. Due to the flat engine design, it's harder to access parts, so repairs can be more expensive. Check the service history.
Specific body and interior parts (e.g., windows and trim details) can be hard to find. Inspect the glass, seals, electrics, and signs of corrosion.
Trim levels
The SVX had one engine and one gearbox, so differences were mainly due to the market.
Alcyone SVX (Japonija)
1991–1996Japanese market version, for example, Version L.
- Right-hand drive
- 3.3-litre flat-six engine
- Automatic gearbox and four-wheel drive
SVX (JAV)
1991–1996US market version.
- Left-hand drive
- 3.3-litre flat-six engine
- Often – rich equipment
SVX (Europa)
1991–1996Sold in Europe in very limited numbers.
- Mostly left-hand drive
- The same core technology
- Very rare in Europe
Market comparison
| Japonija | JAV | Europa | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Driver's side | Right-hand drive | Left-hand drive | Mostly left-hand drive |
| Engine | 3.3-litre flat-six | 3.3-litre flat-six | 3.3-litre flat-six |
| Who it's for | Enthusiasts | Daily driving | Collectors |
| Price in the used market (relatively) | €€ | €€ | €€€ |
The tech is all the same, so the car's condition, paperwork and history are more important than the market it came from.
Pros
- Distinctive Giugiaro styling
- Four-wheel drive
- Powerful flat-six engine
- A rare and collectible model
Cons
- Parts can be hard to find
- Only available with an automatic gearbox
- Engine access is tricky when it comes to servicing
Frequently asked questions
Who designed the SVX?
The SVX was designed by Giorgetto Giugiaro.
Does the SVX have a manual gearbox?
No, it's only available with a four-speed automatic.
Does the SVX have four-wheel drive?
Yes, all SVX models have four-wheel drive.
Updated 2026-10-21 · Trim levels and equipment vary by market and model year — check the equipment of the specific car. · Translated automatically
