Is the Subaru Forester still made in Japan?
Yes, the Subaru Forester is still primarily manufactured in Japan. The Subaru Forester is a popular compact crossover SUV that has been in production since 1997, and it continues to be a core model in Subaru's lineup.
Subaru Forester Production Locations
The Subaru Forester is primarily produced at Subaru's main manufacturing facility in Gunma, Japan. This plant has been the primary production site for the Forester since its introduction. In addition to the Gunma plant, Subaru also produces the Forester at its Lafayette, Indiana plant in the United States, which opened in 1989.
However, the majority of Forester models sold globally, including in the United States, are still manufactured in Japan. The Indiana plant primarily produces Subaru models for the North American market, while the Gunma plant supplies Foresters to other regions around the world.
Reasons for Continued Japan Production
- Subaru's long history and expertise in manufacturing vehicles in Japan, where the company was founded
- The Gunma plant's advanced production capabilities and ability to meet global demand for the Forester
- Maintaining quality control and consistency by keeping core models like the Forester primarily produced in Japan
- Logistical advantages of shipping Foresters from Japan to global markets
While Subaru has expanded production to the United States and other regions, the Forester continues to be strongly associated with its Japanese roots and manufacturing origins.
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.
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 |
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
