Subaru Sambar Kei Truck
1990–2012 (Canada-eligible: 2001–2010)
The Subaru Sambar is the most popular kei truck in Canada. Reliable, comfortable, and available in a rare supercharged variant that makes it the performance king of the kei truck world. The new-body 2008–2012 Sambar (actually built by Daihatsu for Subaru) offers a modern interior and improved ergonomics.
Key Specs
- Engine
- 660cc 4-cylinder (EN07)
- Power
- 38–46 hp (58 hp supercharged)
- Transmission
- 4-speed auto or 5-speed manual
- Drivetrain
- 2WD or 4WD
- Payload
- 350–450 kg
- Weight
- ~720–850 kg
Pros
- ✓Supercharged variant offers noticeably more power
- ✓Comfortable ride quality vs competitors
- ✓Excellent parts availability
- ✓Well-supported in Canada
- ✓2008+ new body style has better ergonomics
Cons
- –Slightly heavier than Suzuki Carry
- –Supercharged variants are more expensive
- –Older (pre-2008) body has cramped cabin
Common Issues to Watch For
- ⚠Supercharger belt wear — inspect at every oil change
- ⚠Head gasket on high-mileage EN07 engines
- ⚠4WD actuator issues in older models
- ⚠Rust on undercarriage (inspect carefully)
Parts Availability in Canada
Excellent availability in Canada. Oil filters, belts, and tires are stocked by Dyna Motor Imports. Engine parts available from RockAuto and Japan-Parts.ca. Supercharger rebuild kits available via specialty suppliers.
Supercharged or Naturally Aspirated?
Deciding between a supercharged and NA Sambar is one of the most common questions Canadian buyers ask. The power difference is real — 58 hp vs 38 hp — but so is the maintenance difference. See our full Subaru Sambar supercharged vs naturally aspirated deep-dive for a complete breakdown including reliability, running costs, and which variant is right for your use case.