Subaru’s cheapest new car is a $7,200 kei van with a manual gearbox

Subaru has refreshed its kei van lineup in Japan with the 2026 Sambar Van, keeping the base trim stripped down while adding modern touches to higher trims.

The entry-level manual rear-wheel-drive variant remains the most affordable new car in Subaru’s global lineup, priced from ¥1,155,000 ($7,200)—a ¥55,000 ($300) increase over the previous base price.

The updated Sambar Van now features optional safety and tech upgrades, including a digital instrument cluster for the Dias trim and a 9-inch infotainment screen with navigation as a factory option on select models.

The Dias trim also sports a distinctive grille with chrome and black accents, mirroring its Daihatsu Hijet Atrai twin.

Mechanically, the Sambar Van retains its 660cc three-cylinder engine, offering 46 HP (34 kW / 46 PS) in naturally aspirated form or 63 HP (47 kW / 64 PS) with a turbocharger.

Buyers can choose between rear-wheel drive or electronically controlled 4WD, paired with either a five-speed manual gearbox or a CVT.

The updated safety suite now includes a stereo camera that detects crossing bicycles, oncoming vehicles when turning right at intersections, and pedestrians crossing from either direction during turns.

The Sambar Van is sold alongside the mechanically related Sambar Truck, which received its own update earlier. Subaru targets sales of 230 units per month in Japan. The range-topping Sambar Van Dias in 4WD with CVT is priced at ¥2,068,000 ($12,900).

The Sambar Van competes in Japan’s kei van segment against rebadged twins like the Daihatsu Hijet Cargo and Toyota Pixis Van, as well as the Suzuki Every, Nissan Clipper Van, Mitsubishi Minicab Van, and Mazda Scrum Van.