Subaru Philippines reports 2023 growth, new Outback to arrive in 2024

Subaru, through its exclusive distributor in the Philippines, Motor Image Pilipinas, has reported huge growth in 2023, outpacing the general expansion of the local auto industry. Karl Magsuci, the newly-appointed country manager, announced that Subaru is projected to close 2023 with a 40 percent increase compared to the previous year. From their year-end 2022 sales of 1,437 vehicles, this growth translates to approximately 2,011 vehicles sold in 2023, celebrating the second consecutive year of growth for Subaru since 2021.

In terms of business expansion, Magsuci confirmed that Motor Image will resume control of Subaru's dealership in Alabang, previously managed by the ANC+ Group and briefly by Gateway Group. The new dealership, scheduled to open in January 2024 at the CTP ASEAN Tower, will cater to Subaru customers in Southern Metro Manila.

Subaru's expansion plans also include relocating the Subaru Pasig dealership to a more central location near Tiendesitas and taking over the former Chevrolet dealership at 92-102 E. Rodriguez Jr. Avenue. The goal of this relocation, scheduled between the third and fourth quarters of 2024, is to improve accessibility for Subaru customers. During this transition, service customers will be directed to Subaru's Greenhills or Manila Bay locations.

Looking ahead to 2024, Magsuci hinted at a new "turbocharged model" in Subaru's lineup. CarGuide.ph, present at the event, was able to gather exclusive information, leading to the speculation that the Outback is likely to receive this turbocharged upgrade. Facing competition from the turbocharged Mazda CX-60, Subaru plans to upgrade the Outback with a 2.4-liter turbocharged flat-four engine, a powertrain it shares with the Evoltis and WRX, producing 260 horsepower and 375 Nm. 

Pricing details remain speculative, but the turbocharged Outback is anticipated to be positioned competitively within Subaru's lineup, possibly between the WRX GT-S and WRX tS Wagon models. As Subaru continues to celebrate its success, the focus on innovative product offerings and strategic dealership expansions sets a promising trajectory for 2024.