Subaru Japan Is Sluggish, Subaru U.S. Production Is Buzzing

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How is Subaru doing at producing new vehicles for customers? The latest report says Subaru Japan is dropping behind, and Subaru U.S. production is running fast. Here's what it means for customers this winter.

Which new Subaru models will be more accessible to find this winter? I cover new Subaru model production monthly to help customers as they purchase new cars. The latest production report from Subaru Corporation shows that new model production at its Japanese plant in Gunma was down 5.3 percent in December. 

This drop affects all 2024 Subaru Forester compact SUV trims, the 2024 Subaru Crosstrek Base and Premium subcompact SUV trims, the 2024 Subaru Impreza hatchback, the 2024 Subaru WRX sports car, and the 2024 Subaru BRZ sport coupe. 

Subaru’s Japan factory struggles  

Subaru Corporation says the decrease is the first in two months. The factory in Japan has struggled more with supply chain issues and parts shortages than the U.S. factory in Lafayette, Indiana. 

The U.S. manufacturing plant is humming 

Subaru Corporation reports Subaru of Indiana Automotive increased 37.9 percent in December. The U.S. plant in Indiana is humming. It’s the eleventh consecutive month of increase.

Another number worth noting is Subaru’s export total for December. The Forester, Crosstrek, Impreza, WRX, and BRZ exports are down 7.2 percent. Fewer models were shipped to U.S. customers. 

What does it mean for customers?

Customers will find fewer new Forester, Crosstrek, Impreza, WRX, and BRZ nameplates on U.S. retailers’ lots. Customers who ordered one of the models will likely wait longer to get the trim they ordered. Inventory of these models will remain tight this winter.

Subaru models made in the U.S.- inventory will improve

Inventory levels of the 2024 Subaru Outback midsize SUV, 2024 Subaru Crosstrek Sport, Limited and Wilderness subcompact SUV trims, 2024 Subaru Ascent 3-Row SUV, and 2024 Subaru Legacy midsize sedan will improve this winter. 

Another model to consider

Subaru Corporation is beginning production of the next-generation 2025 Subaru Forester. The switch will take the Japanese automaker additional time as they retool their assembly lines. They will start making the shift as the remodeled Forester arrives this spring. Supplies of the 2024 Forester will slowly decrease. 

Customers who want the outgoing 2024 Forester should act quickly before Subaru Corporation shuts off new orders.  

Thanks for reading, everyone. I hope you enjoyed this Subaru production story. See you tomorrow for my latest Subaru Report.

For additional articles related to new Subaru models, here are a few of my top stories you may enjoy. 

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Watch All-New 2025 Subaru Forester First Look // What do you think of the design? YouTube video from Motormouth

I am Denis Flierl, a 12-year Torque News senior writer with 20+ years of Subaru and automotive journalism experience. I enjoy bringing you, the Subaru fans and customers, the most up-to-date Subaru news, reviews, and new model information. You'll find the latest Subaru stories on the Subaru page. Follow me on my The Dirty Subaru website, Dirty Subaru blog, SubaruReport, All Subaru, WRXSTI, @DenisFlierl, Facebook, and Instagram.

I’ve got you covered! - I cover all Subaru all the time - It’s called the “Subaru Report.” Check back daily for my expert Subaru analysis!

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photo credit: Subaru USA