The automotive division of Fuji Heavy Industries (FUJHY, Financial), Subaru has chiefly two markets for its models –Â first being Japan, which happens to be its home turf, and second is the U.S. where over the last century it has built several Subaru fans as it offers the unique all-wheel drive (AWD) in all its models, seldom seen in most of the models of the automotive honchos. Presently, the sales in the first quarter of the 2015 fiscal have seen a whopping 33.2% drop at the home turf, which is a direct hit on its revenue chart.
Nevertheless to improve its sales at home, it has recently released the all-new 2015 WRX S4 sports sedan throughout Japan. So, does this imply that its footage in Japan is strong enough to pull sales in the remaining quarters? Let’s take a closer look.
Appealing to the larger audience
The core identity of Subaru models has been the level of safety, and this WRX S4 comes with the best new technology. The S4 is the first model released in the Japanese market that is equipped with Subaru’s Eyesight driving assist system that will provide enhanced safety to the passengers. Also, WRX S4 comes with electric parking brake for more convenience.
It would be good to mention that this model has been awarded the “Top Safety Pick 2014” award by the IIHS. It has the new active lane keep steering assistance system, pre-collision reverse throttle management and brake light recognition advanced features.
The extra features, along with the safety tag make it a hot favorite in Japan as it’s meant exclusively for the Japanese domestic market (JDM).
Subaru is still in high demand
Subaru’s models have received a lot of appreciation in Japan, and it has several takers. Even for this model, Subaru provides equivalent levels of driving thrills as it offers a simulated eight-speed shifting mode, when the car is put in "Sport" driving mode.
The power is routed to all the four wheels via Subaru’s AWD with Vehicle Dynamics Control and Torque Vectoring as standard.
Also, the model is expected to be more fuel efficient as it is powered with a new Boxer power plant. As customers are interested in fuel efficiency, the model could be the highly rated model in Japan.
Concluding note
Subaru seems to be in a winning spree, and this model will reinforce its presence in the home turf. While a raise in the consumption tax has led to lowered domestic sales this quarter, this model could fuel a storm in Japan. It’s already out in the market, as of August 25, and let’s stay tuned for further updates on how this new model is creating waves in the Japanese automotive space.
