Can Subaru Build You A New Outback SUV Without Any Flaws
The new seventh-generation Subaru Outback 2020 model change is about to make its dealer debut and this could be the brand’s most important new vehicle launch ever. The Outback is Subaru of America’s best-selling model in the all-wheel-drive lineup and customers have big expectations for the new SUV-alternative Crossover.
According to a report from Automotive News, Subaru is struggling with quality issues at their Subaru Indiana Automotive plant where the new Outback is built.
Subaru recently updated the factory in Lafayette, Indiana to make room for the new Ascent family hauler to be manufactured, and there have been some well-documented issues with quality. Torque News reported the 2019 Outback was just recalled for a problem with welds located on the duct below the cowl panel may have been improperly applied, potentially impacting the vehicle's body strength. This was a result of the spot-welder on the body assembly line not working properly.
Subaru quality
Subaru Corp knows they have been growing so quickly this has resulted in quality issues at both manufacturing plants. Subaru set up a chief quality officer, Atsushi Osaki, who is trying to improve performance by spending time at Subaru's two assembly plants, in Japan and Indiana. AN reported, Osaki comes to the U.S. plant once a quarter, where he meets with CEO Tom Doll as well as makes visits to hear from the top dealers to try to improve quality.
Subaru’s goal is to have zero recalls but that won’t be an easy task. Doll told AN, "That's a tough ask, but that's the goal, and I believe they're going to achieve it.” Last year, Subaru of America recalled all 2018 Outback SUVs and 2018 Legacy sedans due to a faulty fuel gauge which could cause the driver to run out of fuel and the car to stall on the road. There were 228,648 vehicles are affected in the US.
Should you wait a year?
With Subarus’ recalls, should you wait a year to buy a new Subaru Outback? Subaru Corp knows they have quality issues and are working hard to eliminate them. Subaru will get the glitches at their U.S. plant where the Outback is made figured out. With all the pre-testing Subaru does, the new models will likely be as reliable as the sixth-generation model.
There is an advantage of buying the outgoing model because you could save thousands with the zero percent financing, and large dealer incentives to move out the last of the 2019 models. If you wait for the new 2020 Subaru Outback model change, you’ll get a new SUV with many improvements and upgrades, but dealers won’t be giving you much in the way of discounts to sell them.
Did you know Subaru Outback is one of the most family friendly SUVs in America? Watch the video below and click to subscribe to Torque News Youtube channel for daily Subaru and Automotive industry news.
You Might Also Like: New Subaru Outback Configurator Is Live Now, What Trim Is Right For You
Bookmark my Subaru page and be sure to follow the latest 2020 Subaru Outback model change reports on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Subaru Report. Tweet your Subaru news tips to us @SubaruLegitNews and we'll give you a shout out! Be sure to check back tomorrow for more Subaru news and updates.
Leave your comments below, share the article with friends and tweet it out to your followers!
Photo credit: Subaru Stamford, Subaru Global, Heuberger Subaru