4 Little-Known Subaru Facts That Will Leave You Scratching Your Head
Not your typical automaker.
The Subaru brand is a treasure trove of unique aspects, and I will uncover a few of them in this report. How does this unique brand's distinctiveness shape its future customer base? Here, I'll explore information about the Japanese automaker that will pique your curiosity and leave you wanting to know more.
Subaru's unique approach to car manufacturing sets it apart as one of the most intriguing car brands. It's not your typical automaker, often marching to the beat of a different drummer. (Read more in my report here.) This uniqueness is evident in its unwavering commitment to safety, its pioneering all-wheel drive technology, and its steadfast dedication to the environment. That’s not the head-scratcher.
The newly remodeled 2025 Forester compact SUV is an excellent example of how Subaru stands out. Here are a few surprising statistics that will leave you intrigued.
1. Popular before the remodel.
I knew the Forester was a popular model, and it's now the number one most-researched car or SUV on Consumer Reports' website. The compact SUV is the only model that gets this much attention. That statistic shows what new model shoppers are looking at now. And the Forester was at the top before the next-generation remodel. Find out more in my report here, but there's more.
2. Forester loyalty is sky-high.
Subaru revealed that of all Forester households actively looking to buy a new vehicle, a staggering 72 percent will choose another car from the brand. This sky-high loyalty rate is a testament to the brand's appeal, leaving me wondering why the automaker has such a strong bond with its Forester customers?
Subaru owners are known for their loyalty, but Forester owners take it to another level. Their unwavering faith in the brand and the model is evident when they are ready to trade in their older model, as they are highly likely to choose another Forester or purchase another Subaru model.
3. Forester buyers have been around the block.
Forester buyers are older than all car buyers' median age. A recent report from Automotive News (by subscription) says that Subaru Forester buyers are older than the average in the auto industry. The average age of a Forester buyer today is 62 versus 60 for the auto industry. However, Subaru hopes to attract younger buyers — to the retooled, sixth-generation Forester.
Did Subaru shoot themselves in the foot? Find out why they may have in my new Forester report here, where I delve into the changes in the 2025 Forester, its reception among consumers, and its potential impact on Subaru's brand image and customer base.
The Subaru Forester is aging well.
In car years, the Subaru Forester, now 27 years old, is getting old. However, it's aging well, having proven its reliability and longevity. The fact that buyers from 1997 still purchase the 2025 Forester compact SUV today is the most intriguing fact. It’s a testament to the model’s enduring appeal.
I can think of a few reasons why. Its high safety ratings, EyeSight driver assist features, and robust all-wheel-drive all-weather and all-terrain performance.
4. Female buyers are in love with Subaru.
Another interesting statistic is that YouGov profiles reveal that females are just as likely to own cars as males. Okay, that's not a head-scratcher. The next one is. YouGov says that the car brands with the strongest and largest female audience are Mini number one and Subaru number two. Nissan is a distant third. Check out the interesting stats and the most prominent female buyers per brand percentage.
- Mini 45%
- Subaru 44%
- Nissan 30%
YouGov says, "Mini and Subaru are viewed as iconic but attainable. Comments indicate that the design and The Italian Job movie have shaped strong brand recognition and a positive perception of Mini."
The Subaru WRX played a prominent role in the film Baby Driver, which attracted a male audience. You can read my report here.
Female buyers want to get further away.
That leaves me wondering why the association with the outdoors has driven strong brand appeal and recognition for Subaru with female buyers. Many younger, active females strongly desire to escape the city and drive their vehicles like the Crosstrek further from civilization. The Subaru is the ideal vehicle.
There's something for everyone.
That tells me that a younger demographic of active females of mountain bikers, hikers, snowboarders, surfers, kayakers, and campers are drawn to the Subaru brand. They love the new 2024 Subaru Crosstrek.
Many females with young families are drawn to the Subaru Outback because it rides like a car and has the utility and versatility of an SUV. It's perfect for growing families.
We know now that many seasoned females over 62 love the Subaru Forester the most. You can read my report here on how the Forester offers more comfort than ever.
Subaru says it's more than a car company. These examples show why Subaru differs from others and leave us scratching our heads.
How about you?
What draws you to the Subaru brand? Click the red ‘Add new comment’ link below and let us know.
I am Denis Flierl, a top Torque News reporter since 2012. I’ve invested over 13 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 X SubaruReport, All Subaru, WRXSTI, @DenisFlierl, Facebook, and Instagram.
Photo credit: Subaru