The automotive world is constantly evolving, with partnerships and collaborations shaping the vehicles we drive. Recent news has brought the relationship between two popular Japanese automakers, Subaru and Toyota, into sharper focus, leading many to ask: Is Subaru Owned By Toyota? The answer isn’t a simple yes or no, and understanding the nuances of this partnership is key to grasping the future direction of Subaru vehicles.
To clarify the ownership question directly: Subaru is not fully owned by Toyota, but it is significantly affiliated with the automotive giant. In a move announced in late 2019 and formalized in early 2020, Toyota increased its stake in Subaru Corporation from 16.83 percent to 20 percent. This increased equity makes Subaru an affiliated company of Toyota, strengthening their existing ties and paving the way for deeper collaboration. Think of it less as a complete takeover and more as a powerful alliance designed to benefit both brands in a rapidly changing industry.
Alt text: The Subaru Outback 2020 model, an example of a vehicle line that will benefit from Toyota hybrid technology through the partnership.
What Does This Increased Stake Mean for Subaru?
This strengthened partnership is not about absorbing Subaru into Toyota and erasing its unique identity. Instead, it’s about leveraging the strengths of both companies to create better vehicles and navigate the challenges of the modern automotive landscape. For Subaru, a smaller manufacturer compared to Toyota, this alliance opens up significant opportunities, particularly in technology sharing and development.
One of the most immediate and impactful areas of collaboration will be in electrification. Subaru has publicly stated its ambitious goal that by 2030, 40 percent of its global sales will come from electric vehicles (EVs) or hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs). Furthermore, by the first half of the 2030s, Subaru aims to offer some form of hybrid or all-electric technology across its entire worldwide lineup. To achieve these targets, Subaru will rely on Toyota’s well-established expertise and technology in hybrid systems.
This means we can expect to see more Subaru models incorporating Toyota’s hybrid technology in the coming years. Models like the Subaru Outback, Forester, and Ascent, known for their all-wheel-drive capability and ruggedness, are prime candidates to benefit from Toyota’s efficient and reliable hybrid systems. The Crosstrek Plug-In Hybrid, already launched, is an early example of this collaboration in action.
Alt text: The Subaru Forester 2020, showcasing the model’s distinctive design which Subaru aims to maintain despite the deeper Toyota partnership.
Subaru’s Identity Will Remain Distinct
Despite the closer relationship with Toyota, Subaru is committed to maintaining its unique brand identity and the core values that resonate with its loyal customer base. Subaru President Tomomi Nakamura has emphasized the importance of remaining “different from Toyota” and further refining the distinctive qualities that define a Subaru.
These core attributes include:
- Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive: Subaru’s signature Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, providing enhanced stability and control in various driving conditions, will remain a cornerstone of the brand.
- Ruggedness and “Go-Anywhere” Capability: Subaru vehicles are known for their adventurous spirit and ability to handle diverse terrains. This rugged DNA will continue to be a key differentiator.
- Fun-to-Drive Character: Subaru aims to maintain the engaging and enjoyable driving experience that its vehicles are known for.
- Safety: Subaru has consistently prioritized safety, and this commitment will remain unwavering.
The partnership with Toyota is seen as a way to enhance these core values, not dilute them. By collaborating on technology and leveraging Toyota’s scale, Subaru can strengthen its product lineup and ensure it remains competitive in the long term, all while staying true to its brand essence.
The Future: Electric AWD Subarus on the Horizon
Looking further ahead, the Subaru-Toyota partnership extends beyond hybrid technology to encompass all-electric vehicles. Subaru and Toyota are jointly developing a new all-electric all-wheel-drive vehicle, slated for release around 2030. This vehicle will be distinctly a Subaru, incorporating the brand’s signature AWD system and driving dynamics, but will benefit from shared EV technology and platforms.
This collaboration signals an exciting future for Subaru, allowing it to embrace electrification while staying true to its core values. While Subaru is not owned by Toyota in the traditional sense, this deepened partnership is a strategic move that promises to bring significant advancements and innovations to Subaru vehicles in the years to come, especially in the realm of hybrid and electric powertrains. For Subaru drivers and enthusiasts, this means the brand is poised to continue delivering capable, reliable, and uniquely Subaru vehicles, now with an added boost from Toyota’s global automotive leadership.
