it was launched with the option of four-wheel drive and powered by 1.0- and 1.2-litre 3-cylinder ef engines based on those used in the subaru justy although in the van they were rear mounted. somewhat unusual for a microvan, the 1,200 cc sumo could be ordered with selectable 4wd, operated via a gear stick mounted button. in normal driving conditions, only the rear wheels were driven, as there was no central differential to allow highway driving in 4wd mode. in 1994, subaru's full time 4wd (s-awd) was added to the options list with the ecvt transmission only and a viscous coupling. an oil cooler was installed on european versions to better facilitate light duty towing.