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Subaru Pleo I (RA/RV) gallery (1998–2010)

The first generation Subaru Pleo high-roof mini-hatchback was produced from 1998 to 2010 with supercharged EN07 engines and i-CVT.

All photos 4 I (RA/RV) 4 1998–2010 II (L275/L285) 0 2010–2018 III (Pleo Plus I) 0 2012–2017 IV (Pleo Plus II) 0 2017
Subaru Pleo I (RA/RV) photo 34196 1600 x 1200 78 2005
Subaru Pleo I (RA/RV) photo 34195 1600 x 1200 83 2005
Subaru Pleo I (RA/RV) photo 34194 1600 x 1200 79 2005
Subaru Pleo I (RA/RV), grey, interior — photo 34193 1600 x 1200 79 2005
Interior of a right-hand drive vehicle with a modular seating system. The seats are upholstered in two-tone light grey and dark blue fabric. The front passenger seatback is fully reclined flat to connect seamlessly with the rear bench seat. The dashboard and door cards are finished in grey plastic, featuring a column-mounted shifter and an instrument cluster with blue dials.

Produced from 1998 to 2010, the first-generation Subaru Pleo (RA/RV platform) replaced the Vivio with a tall micro-hatchback body layout. Powered by 658 cc EN07 4-cylinder engines, it offered naturally aspirated (45–52 hp), low-pressure turbo (60 hp), and supercharged (64 hp in RS trims) options paired with 5-speed manual or i-CVT transmissions featuring 7-speed SportShift manual controls. The engineering setup effectively combined the low center of gravity inherent to the horizontally-opposed engine layout with a rigid chassis frame, delivering precise handling and composure across dry pavement and slippery surfaces alike. Engine bay packaging ensured optimal front-to-rear axle weight distribution alongside efficient thermal cooling under sustained driving loads.

Facelifts in 2001 and 2005 refreshed front lighting and interior trim, while a retro-styled Pleo Nesta variant offered unique chrome styling. First-generation manufacturing continued in Japan until 2010. Designers placed a strong emphasis on cabin ergonomics, occupant visibility, and long-distance driving comfort. Robust mechanical reliability across the drivetrain and suspension components helped establish this generation as a benchmark choice within its competitive market segment worldwide.