Who is the manufacturer of Subaru cars?
Subaru cars are manufactured by Subaru Corporation, a Japanese company that owns the Subaru automotive brand. The company was formerly known as Fuji Heavy Industries before adopting the name Subaru Corporation in 2017.
In practical terms, Subaru is the automotive division of Subaru Corporation, with production facilities in Japan and the United States and a history dating back to the 1950s. This article explains the corporate identity behind Subaru and how the brand is produced for global markets.
The corporate identity behind Subaru
Subaru Corporation is the parent company responsible for Subaru's automotive operations. The company traces its roots to Fuji Heavy Industries, founded in 1953, and adopted the name Subaru Corporation in 2017 as part of a branding and structural refresh while continuing to produce vehicles under the Subaru marque.
Key facts about the manufacturer
Here is a concise snapshot of the organization that designs, builds and markets Subaru cars.
- Official name: Subaru Corporation (株式会社SUBARU)
- Former name: Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd., renamed in 2017 as part of a corporate rebranding
- Primary role: Parent company and automaker behind the Subaru brand
- Global footprint: Production facilities in Japan (notably in Ota, Gunma) and in the United States (Subaru of Indiana Automotive, Lafayette, Indiana) to support global markets
- Brand identity: Subaru is the automotive brand under Subaru Corporation; the logo represents the Pleiades star cluster
These points illustrate the corporate structure behind Subaru cars and how the name Subaru Corporation relates to the vehicles on the road.
Where Subaru cars are made
Most Subaru vehicles are produced at two major hubs: the company's Japanese facilities and its U.S. assembly plant, with production aligned to North American demand and global sales.
- Japan: Ota plant in Gunma Prefecture and other facilities, assembling a wide range of Subaru models
- United States: Subaru of Indiana Automotive (SIA) in Lafayette, Indiana, producing several popular models for North America
In sum, Subaru's manufacturing footprint centers on Japan with a significant production presence in the United States to support global demand.
Summary
Subaru cars are manufactured by Subaru Corporation, the Japanese company formerly known as Fuji Heavy Industries. The Subaru brand operates worldwide, with major production in Japan and in the United States, reflecting a history dating back to the 1950s and a corporate renaming in 2017.
Is Subaru still a Japanese company?
Yes, many Subarus are still made in Japan, although some models are now also built at the company's plant in Indiana, USA. Japan remains the primary manufacturing location for the company, with Subaru operating four of its five global factories there, according to J.D. Power and Sendell Subaru.
- Models primarily made in Japan: Subaru manufactures vehicles like the Forester, WRX, BRZ, and certain trims of the Crosstrek, Impreza, and Legacy in its Japanese plants.
- US-made models: The Subaru of Indiana Automotive (SIA) plant in Lafayette, Indiana, produces a large portion of the vehicles sold in the U.S., including models like the Outback, Legacy, Ascent, and certain trims of the Crosstrek and Impreza.
- Engine and transmission production: While vehicles are assembled in both countries, some components like engines and transmissions are still made in Japan for both the Japanese and US-assembled models.
Which is better Subaru or Toyota?
Neither brand is universally "better" than the other; the best choice depends on your priorities, but Subaru often leads in standard all-wheel drive, safety technology, and certain performance aspects, while Toyota is frequently cited for its long-standing reputation for powertrain reliability and fuel efficiency. For those who need all-wheel drive, prioritize standard safety features, or want a lower center of gravity and sportier handling, Subaru may be the better choice. If long-term powertrain reliability and higher fuel economy are your top concerns, Toyota often has the edge.
Subaru's strengths
- Standard All-Wheel Drive: Most Subaru models come with all-wheel drive as standard, which is a major advantage for year-round safety and performance in varying weather conditions.
- Safety Technology: Subaru features its EyeSight driver-assist technology on most models, which is highly rated for crash prevention.
- Handling and Performance: The brand's exclusive use of a Boxer engine gives it a lower center of gravity, which improves handling, stability, and performance, particularly in turns.
- Value and Resale: Subaru often has a lower starting price with more included features and offers a strong resale value.
Toyota's strengths
- Powertrain Reliability: Toyota has a long-standing reputation for building extremely reliable powertrains, including its hybrid systems and conventional engines.
- Long-Term Durability: Many Toyota vehicles are known for lasting for 200,000 miles or more, and the brand has a history of exceptional longevity.
- Fuel Efficiency: Toyota generally offers better fuel economy across its lineup, which can lead to lower long-term ownership costs.
How to choose
- Choose Subaru if: You want standard all-wheel drive for adverse weather, prioritize standard advanced safety features, and prefer a car with a lower center of gravity for better handling.
- Choose Toyota if: Your top priority is long-term powertrain reliability, you want the best possible fuel economy, or you are looking for a vehicle that is likely to last for a very long time with minimal issues.
Is Subaru made by Honda?
Well, Subaru vehicles are primarily manufactured in Japan, with the brand's roots tracing back to its parent company, Subaru Corporation. The main Subaru factory is located in Gunma Prefecture, Japan, consisting of multiple production plants that are integral to Subaru manufacturing.
Is Subaru still owned by Toyota?
Yes, Toyota owns a significant part of Subaru, holding just over a 20% stake as of March 2024. However, Subaru remains an independent company and is not a subsidiary of Toyota. Their relationship is a strategic partnership that includes joint development of vehicles, such as the Subaru BRZ and Toyota 86, and technology sharing.
- Ownership stake: Toyota's stake in Subaru is a little over 20%, which makes it the largest single shareholder but not a controlling stake.
- Independence: Despite the ownership, Subaru operates independently and maintains its own distinct brand identity, including its focus on all-wheel drive and other unique features.
- Partnership: The companies have a close working relationship that includes joint projects like the BRZ/86 sports coupe and technology sharing in areas like electric vehicles.
- History: Toyota's investment grew over time, starting with an initial 8.7% stake in 2005 after General Motors liquidated its holdings.
