Oh, Subaru. How we revere you. How we cherish you! We’d never want to live without you — and here in Northwest Arkansas, we’re far from being the only ones who feel that way. In Fayetteville - or Bentonville, or Rogers, or Eureka Springs - you don’t have to look far to spot a Subie. Just take a drive down the street to your nearest mountain trail, watering hole, yoga studio, climbing gym or coffee shop. We’d be shocked if you didn’t pass a Subaru or two. After all, Subaru is the unofficial car of Northwest Arkansas.
Why does NWA love Subaru so much, you ask? We could probably list infinite reasons, but we’ll try to simplify it a little bit. First of all, we get it. We’ve met some uncertain Subie newbies that didn’t quite understand the appeal- at first. If you’re used to a certain aesthetic, like that of a pretty little luxury car or a blacked-out SUV with monster wheels, the Subaru style might take some getting used to. It might be hard to understand why they put more into roof rails and cargo space than trendy design and upscale interiors. But that’s a big part of what we Ozark dwellers love so much.
You see, Subarus aren’t made for luxury. They’re not even really made for driving. Subarus are made for living.
You might not put a bumper sticker on a Bentley, and that’s all well and good. But when you see a Subie with a sticker-littered bumper, you’re seeing a little glimpse into the life of its driver. You’re seeing the marathons they’ve run, the places they’ve been, the feats they’ve accomplished. You’re seeing their values and interests and desires.
When an unexpected ice storm hits in the middle of a heat wave, you probably won’t see many BMWs braving the elements. But you can pretty much count on seeing a Forester or an Outback out there, navigating the slick streets like it’s nothing.
If you and your best pals decide to embark on a last-minute camping trip deep into the Ozarks, you can forget about taking Paige’s Camry or Josh’s Tahoe. Subarus look their best wearing bike racks and cargo carriers, anyway. In fact, even scratches and scars from weaving through off-road trails add a certain charm.
In case you haven’t met the Barkleys, you should know- Subarus are for the dogs, too. Picture a beautiful Golden hanging his head out the window of a Forester, lapping up the breeze, watching the scenery pass by. Think about picking up your pit mix for the first time at the local shelter and leading her into the back of your Crosstrek. Northwest Arkansas is probably one of the most dog-friendly places on the planet, so why wouldn’t we all be driving Subarus? It’s not like we care about a little hair!
Nothing is really off-limits when it comes to loading up a Subaru, now that we think about it. Did you see those vintage chairs someone just dumped in an alleyway? Load ‘em up! That litter of stray cats you found living under a dumpster? Hop on in! Planning a jam sesh with a couple of guitars, a keyboard, two amps and a pile of miscellaneous music-making essentials? Pack up the Subaru, there’s plenty of room. Actually, it’s not uncommon to see free spirits posted up with all of their physical belongings living out of their Subies for awhile. Like we said — Subarus are made for living.
Subaru is the unofficial car of Northwest Arkansas because Subarus are a lot like us. They’re earthy, outdoorsy, environmentally conscious, comfortable, and always ready for adventure. They’re fit for this place because they can take on any weather and any terrain that Arkansas throws at us. They’re perfect for NWA residents because Subaru cares about things that matter to us, like saving money, being compassionate, pursuing an active lifestyle, and truly experiencing the world around us.
Subaru, we love you.
Sincerely,
Northwest Arkansas
