Subaru Forester vehicles are primarily manufactured in Japan, with a significant portion also built in the United States for the North American market. The main production facility is Subaru's Yajima Plant in Gunma, Japan, which is renowned for its high-quality manufacturing standards. Additionally, since 2019, some Forester production for the U.S. and Canadian markets has taken place at Subaru of Indiana Automotive (SIA) in Lafayette, Indiana. This dual-source strategy helps Subaru meet high consumer demand in North America efficiently.
The Yajima Plant is the heart of Subaru's production, where most global Foresters are assembled. This facility is known for its advanced quality control and precision engineering, contributing to the Forester's reputation for durability and reliability. For customers in North America, the Indiana plant offers a key advantage: reduced delivery times and avoidance of potential import tariffs. The SIA plant is Subaru's only manufacturing facility outside of Japan and also produces other models like the Ascent, Outback, and Legacy.
It’s important to check your specific vehicle's Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). A VIN starting with "J" indicates Japanese manufacture, while a "1" or "4" indicates U.S. assembly. Both locations adhere to Subaru's strict global quality standards, so you can expect the same level of build quality and performance regardless of the assembly point.
| Production Location | City/Prefecture | Country | Primary Market | Key Fact |
|---|
| Yajima Plant | Ota, Gunma | Japan | Global | Primary hub for Forester production; known for meticulous craftsmanship. |
| Subaru of Indiana Automotive (SIA) | Lafayette, Indiana | USA | North America | Began Forester production in 2019 to support local demand. |
| Annual SIA Production Capacity | ~400,000 vehicles | - | - | This plant produces several Subaru models alongside the Forester. |
| VIN Code (Japan) | J | - | - | The first character of the VIN signifies the country of origin. |
| VIN Code (USA) | 1 or 4 | - | - | These codes confirm assembly in the United States. |
