Is the Subaru Forester still made in Japan?
The Subaru Forester has long been a favorite among compact SUV enthusiasts, known for its reliability, safety features, and all-wheel-drive capabilities. However, as automotive manufacturing evolves, many consumers are curious about where their vehicles are produced. This article explores the current manufacturing location of the Subaru Forester and what it means for buyers.
Manufacturing Locations of the Subaru Forester
Traditionally, the Subaru Forester was manufactured in Japan, specifically at Subaru's plant in Gunma Prefecture. However, in recent years, Subaru has expanded its production capabilities to meet growing demand in various markets.
Current Production Status
As of 2025, the Subaru Forester is still produced in Japan, but it is also manufactured in other locations, including:
- United States: Subaru has a manufacturing facility in Lafayette, Indiana, where some models, including the Subaru Ascent and Subaru Outback, are produced. However, the Forester continues to be primarily made in Japan.
- Japan: The Gunma plant remains the main production site for the Forester, ensuring that the vehicle retains its quality and craftsmanship associated with Japanese manufacturing.
Implications for Buyers
For consumers, knowing that the Subaru Forester is still made in Japan can be reassuring. Japanese manufacturing is often associated with high standards of quality and reliability. Additionally, vehicles produced in Japan may benefit from advanced technology and engineering practices that Subaru is known for.
In conclusion, while the Subaru Forester is still primarily manufactured in Japan, the brand's expansion into other markets reflects its commitment to meeting global demand. Buyers can feel confident in the quality of the Forester, regardless of where it is produced.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Subaru Forester still made in Japan?
Where Are Subaru Foresters Made? Subaru Foresters are made in Yajima, Gunma Prefecture, Japan, about 60 miles north of Tokyo. They are all exported to America as one of the most popular SUVs in Subaru's lineup today!
Will the 2025 Subaru Forester be made in Japan?
Initial 2025 Forester Hybrids, like non-hybrid models, will come from Japan. But that all changes with the 2026 model year. All 2026 Forester models will be U.S.-made, in Indiana—including the Forester Hybrid, non-hybrid Foresters, and the new Forester Wilderness also confirmed at Chicago.
Where are the 2025 Subaru Foresters manufactured?
Gunma, Japan
The Wilderness offers a smart option package with an 8.0-inch SUBARU STARLINK Multimedia Navigation system, Harman Kardon premium audio system with a 576-watt equivalent amp and nine speakers and power rear gate for $1,850. All 2025 Subaru Forester models are assembled at Subaru's Gunma, Japan, facility.
Is Subaru discontinuing the Forester?
Subaru Corporation will continue to produce the Forester in Japan for its domestic customers and customers in Europe, Asia, and Australia. That means all Forester made in the U.S. will stay here. Forester production is going up. Subaru Corporation's production of the all-new 2025 Forester has increased.
Which Subaru models are still made in Japan?
Subarus are made in six factories around the world, four of which are in Japan: Subaru-chō, building the Impreza, WRX, BRZ, and Crosstrek, as part of an 82-acre facility in Ota, Gunma Prefecture, Japan.
How do I know if my Subaru is made in Japan?
The VIN of the Subaru brand is an alphanumeric 17-digit code that starts with JF1 for cars manufactured in Japan or 4S3 for Subaru manufactured in the USA.
What are the weaknesses of a Subaru Forester?
A list of some of the most common issues Forester owners have to deal with.
- CAN System Parasitic Drain on the Battery.
- Unintended Acceleration.
- Brake Light Switch Defect.
- Cracked Windshields.
- Lineartronic CVT Reliability.
- Rodents Chew Subaru's Soy Wires.
- Subaru EyeSight Problems.
- Subaru Vehicles with Recalled Takata Airbags.
Is Subaru moving Outback production to Japan?
Subaru is shifting the Outback manufacturing to Japan in fall of 2025 and bringing the Forester and Forester hybrid to SIA per WLFI interview with SIA VP.
Where is the 2024 Subaru Forester made?
Subaru has some important news to share as well–production of the new Forester is coming to United States. The sixth-generation model will be assembled in Indiana at the factory in Lafayette. Production capacity won't be a concern because the Legacy sedan is going away after the 2025 model year.
How much will the 2025 Subaru Forester cost?
| 2025 Subaru Forester Hybrid | ||
|---|---|---|
| Model/Trim | Transmission | MSRP |
| Forester Premium Hybrid | CVT | $34,995 |
| Forester Sport Hybrid | CVT | $37,995 |
| Forester Limited Hybrid | CVT | $39,410 |
