Subaru confirms today that a new 3-row crossover model, replacing the defunct Tribeca, will be produced at its SIA plant in Lafayette, Indiana. Beginning in 2018 the unnamed larger vehicle with third-row seating will likely be branded like all other SUVs with a name synonymous with outdoor adventure. Subaru’s other crossovers are Outback, Forester and Crosstrek.
When production of the new model begins, Subaru will have four models produced in the U.S.: Legacy, Outback, a new Impreza compact sedan and 5-door model beginning production in late 2016, and this new crossover. Subaru production in Indiana is projected to be approximately 228,000 units in 2015, and annual capacity is scheduled to grow to 394,000 with the introduction of the Impreza model.
“We have enjoyed record sales for seven consecutive years and the introduction of an all-new, American-made Impreza followed by an all-new larger 3-row crossover will help keep our sales momentum strong,” said Thomas J. Doll, President and COO of Subaru of America.
Subaru of America reported record sales for October 2015 totaling 51,629 vehicles, a 20% increase compared to the October record set in 2014 (43,012). The company also reported year-to-date sales of 480,331 vehicles, a 14.8% gain over the same period in 2014.
October marks the fourth consecutive month of more than 50,000 vehicle sales for the company. Crosstrek, Forester, Impreza, Outback and WRX/STI sales were strong as each carline achieved its best October ever. The Impreza posted a 69.3% increase, while the WRX/STI posted a 44.5% sales increase during October. The Crosstrek continued strong sales with an increase of 36.1%, while Forester and Outback sales increased 17% and 16.7% respectively in October.
