Subaru - On a Roll Down Under

AllTorque

On a Roll Down Under In just 35 years, Subaru has flourished in a land known for its hard knocks and even harder drivers. Words: RODerick EIME

Top: In the beginning (1973) was the Subaru Leone.

Middle: The six-seat family van, the Exiga, will be here later this year.

Above: Subaru is optimistic about sales.

Left: The Forester range is still a best-seller.

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countrybiz june 09

AllTorque

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ubaru’s 1973 entry into the Australian car market coincided nicely with flared trousers, platform shoes and the euphoria of a reformist government under Gough Whitlam.

The awkward looking Subaru Leone was reminiscent of the lonely geek in the corner at the party and ownership was for those attracted to the little sedan’s undeniable practicality and reliability. Style and street ‘cred’ would have to wait.

We saw a glimpse of the future when the unknown actor Jackie Chan piloted a wild, high performance Subaru Station Wagon in Cannonball Run. Today, Subaru’s recreational wagons, the all-wheel-drive (AWD) Outback and Forester, deliver a staggering performance package in line with their stablemates, the Impreza and Liberty. Subaru has offered AWD vehicles in Australia only since 1998, reinforcing their niche specialty in driver-focused performance and recreational vehicles.

A lot has changed in 35 years and one thing is certain, nowadays people don’t point and giggle when you rock up in a Subaru. After total domination of our rally championships until 2005, Australia is now the third biggest market for Subaru vehicles, after Japan and the United States. For the regional user, Subaru’s promised diesel engines are possibly the most exciting development and Australia will see them here shortly.

OUTthere spoke with Subaru MD, Nick Senior, about the present and future Subaru.

OUTthere: Subaru has a strong position in the Australian market. How will the company meet any challenges?

NS: Our unique combination of Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and Boxer engine continues to be our selling point.

Combined with our safety focus, engineering reputation, durability and proven whole-of-life costs, it makes Subaru a compelling proposition – especially in an economy where people are looking for low-risk, proven performers. We have products that appeal to a wide audience and we believe this positions us well for the future.

OUTthere: What is Subaru’s take on the current market and which models are standout performers?

NS: As with so many industries currently, the automotive market is tough. However, this has presented an opportunity for us, with the attributes outlined above attracting new as well as existing customers to Subaru. For example, new generation Forester was Australia’s best-selling compact SUV last year and is the best-selling SUV across all categories so far this year. New generation Impreza is achieving our best-ever small car figures and our largest vehicle, Tribeca, has introduced Subaru to a new set of customers. Together with the new generation Liberty and Outback, which will be introduced in September, this gives us cause for optimism.

OUTthere: Subaru are well known for technical innovation.

What new engineering and planning exercises are ahead?

NS: Without giving any secrets away, we have some exciting technologies pending, including the introduction of Constantly Variable Transmission (CVT) options in our new generation Liberty. At the end of the year we will introduce our first diesel variant, in an Outback. This engine has had rave reviews in Europe for its low-fuel consumption and refinement. We are introducing a six-seat family wagon, the Exiga, late in the year, which will expand our appeal to families, as it has a versatile and spacious cabin.

OUTthere: Is Subaru exploring hybrid or other ‘low carb’ alternatives?

NS: We demonstrated the plug-in STELLA electric concept in the lead-up to Melbourne Motor Show. This four-door micro-car has a range of 80 kilometres, a top speed of 100 km/h and can be recharged to 80 per cent capacity in15 minutes, using a special charger, or plugged into a home power outlet overnight for a full recharge.

OUTthere: Will Subaru diesels find their way into other models here in Australia?

NS: We’ve had some cars on test and have been delighted and amazed by the fuel consumption figures we’ve returned. Depending upon the level of interest, yes, we may have the option to expand this engine into other models in our range.

FAST FACTS Subaru has 106 dealers across Australia with an excellent rural and regional coverage from Broken Hill to Kalgoorlie.

For more information about Subaru vehicles, call 1800 22 66 43 to find your local dealer or visit the comprehensive website: www.subaru.com.au

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