Is Subaru American or Japanese?
Subaru is Japanese in origin, but the brand operates a substantial U.S. business, including manufacturing and sales in North America. The corporate roots lie in Japan, while the U.S. operation contributes to its global footprint.
Subaru's Japanese roots
Key facts about Subaru's origin and corporate identity in Japan.
- Subaru is the brand of Subaru Corporation, which was formerly Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. and rebranded to Subaru Corporation in 2017.
- The name "Subaru" is Japanese for the star cluster Pleiades, a motif reflected in the brand’s six-star logo.
- The company’s headquarters are in Tokyo, Japan, and it operates as a global automaker with activities around the world.
These facts underscore Subaru's Japanese corporate identity, even as it serves customers worldwide, including the United States.
Subaru's footprint in the United States
The United States is a major market for Subaru, with a distinct mix of import and domestic production.
- Subaru of America, Inc. is the U.S. subsidiary responsible for marketing, distribution, and the dealer network for Subaru vehicles in the American market.
- Subaru of Indiana Automotive, LLC (SIA) in Lafayette, Indiana, has produced vehicles for the U.S. market since 1989, supporting North American model supply.
- In addition to U.S. production, some models are imported from Japan or other regions, reflecting a global supply chain strategy.
In practice, Subaru’s American presence is substantial and strategically important, but it does not make Subaru an American company—the corporate identity remains Japanese, with a robust U.S. manufacturing and sales footprint.
Nationality in practice
Classification depends on context: origin, corporate ownership, and manufacturing. Subaru is Japanese by origin and corporate ownership, while maintaining a strong American manufacturing and market presence.
Summary
Subaru is Japanese in origin and corporate structure, with a significant American footprint through U.S. manufacturing and the Subaru of America operation. It stands as a globally integrated automaker that serves the American market from both foreign and domestic production bases.
