Subaru Production Drops Across All Car Lines And What It Means For Customers Now

I report Subaru Corporation's overseas and U.S. production results every month, and this month's report shows a drop in all three important categories. This is important because it gives new Subaru shoppers an idea of what they can expect this spring and summer. 

From what I've seen recently, inventory levels of Forester, Crosstrek, and Outback are rising at Subaru of America retailers, so this drop in production may not drastically affect your new car purchase. First, I'll show Subaru's reported numbers and the affected U.S. models. Here are the specifics. 

Production Drops In Japanese Factory

Subaru Corporation reports a 22.2 percent drop in Japanese production in March. This is the second consecutive month of decrease at the Gunma, Japan, Subaru factory.

The Gunma plant is where Subaru manufactures the U.S. spec Forester compact SUV, Base and Premium Crosstrek subcompact SUV trims, Impreza compact hatch, WRX sports car, and BRZ sport coupe.

Production Drops In U.S. Factory 

Subaru Corporation reports a 4.5 percent drop in its U.S. Subaru of Indiana Automotive (SIA) factory production in March. Although U.S. production has been up, this was the first decrease in 14 months. 

Subaru manufactures the Outback midsize SUV, Crosstrek Sport, Limited, Wilderness trims, Ascent 3-Row SUV, and Legacy sedan at the SIA plant. 

Check out my recent story of why Subaru is dropping the Legacy sedan here. 

Say Goodbye To The Subaru Legacy And Here’s Why Subaru Axed The Model @SubaruReport @torquenewsautohttps://t.co/6XlNz0hUJ8#subaru #legacy #subarulegacy #legacysport #legacyxt pic.twitter.com/gYnPXZuhqt
— Denis Flierl (@DenisFlierl) April 23, 2024

Exports From Japan Drop

Subaru Corporation reports a drop in the export total of the U.S.-spec Forester, Crosstrek, Impreza, WRX, and BRZ shipments to U.S. customers. This was the first decrease in three months, according to the Subaru report. 

From what I've seen, Subaru customers in North America should not be alarmed. As I said, Subaru of America's inventory levels have steadily risen over the past four months. 

I would say Subaru customers should find an ample number of models to choose from, especially the 2024 Forester, 2024 Crosstrek, and 2024 Outback. This is different from what customers experienced one year ago. 

Right Now, It's A Perfect Storm At Subaru

Let's review what I call the perfect storm. Three significant events that are affecting pricing and how Subaru retailers deal with customers. 

There’s A Perfect Storm Brewing At Subaru @SubaruReport @torquenewsautohttps://t.co/7MsnBVcDaB#subaru #outback #forester pic.twitter.com/jBGD5r8JB2
— Denis Flierl (@DenisFlierl) April 16, 2024

1. I see Subaru's inventory increasing, and the recent decrease in production should not affect things this summer, but I will keep customers informed. Stay tuned. 

2. Demand for new cars is down because of the economy and higher interest rates. This gives customers an edge, and it's a buyers' market now. 

3. I've seen Subaru retailers ready to make a deal. Subaru is now offering special financing on Forester, Outback, and Solterra. 

From what I've seen recently, Subaru wants to move the 2024 Forester and 2024 Outback to make room for the 2025 models that are soon to arrive. 

As I said in a previous report, SOA now offers special financing on both SUVs. I haven't seen this in the two decades I've been covering Subaru.

WAIT, WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU

Have you negotiated a good deal on a Subaru vehicle recently? If so, click the Add New Comment link below and let us know.

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

Before you go, watch the There's A Perfect Storm Brewing At Subaru YouTube video and see why now could be the perfect time to buy a new Subaru Forester, Outback, or Crosstrek. 

I am Denis Flierl, a top Torque News and Subaru reporter since 2012. I’ve invested over 30 years in the automotive industry in a consulting role, working with every major car brand. I am an experienced Rocky Mountain Automotive Press member. You'll find my expert Subaru analysis here. Follow me on my The Dirty Subaru website, Dirty Subaru blog, X 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!

Please leave your comments below, share the article with friends, and post X to your followers! 

photo credit: Subaru of Indiana Automotive