Latest news with #ScottLawrence
News.com.au
13 hours ago
- Automotive
- News.com.au
Subaru boss backs emissions but won't say if price will rise
Subaru has not ruled out price increases under the Federal Government's New Vehicle Efficiency Standard (NVES), but the company's local boss says it will avoid them for now. While rival brands such as Ford have cited NVES as the reason for the recent price hikes including a $5,000 jump for the Mustang, Subaru has held firm. Subaru managing director Scott Lawrence said the automaker supports the Federal Government's NVES but declined to predict how the regulation might affect the wider market in years to come. 'I won't comment on the market outlook,' he said. 'Look, we've not lifted prices. I can't really speak to the future of price moves. 'Certainly, our intent is to have a product-first strategy, to make sure the product is right for consumers. Ultimately though, consumers will decide.' Price hikes have become a major talking point across the industry as the NVES framework penalises high-emitting vehicles and incentives brands who offer low-emitting vehicles. Hence why several brands have adjusted pricing, with the rising costs often passed on to consumers. Lawrence explained that Subaru's plan to NVES is to provide more powertrain variety, with hybrid, electric and internal combustion models all available in its Australian line-up. 'Overwhelmingly, we support any initiative to reduce emissions,' he said. 'Our response is to keep working with Subaru Corporation to bring in the right products for Australian consumers.' The brand's new 'strong hybrid' Forester joins the fully electric Solterra and other hybrid and petrol models. Lawrence said hybrid tech is becoming the natural next step for traditional buyers as they offer 'more range and confidence', especially in regional Australia where EV infrastructure is limited. However he did say 'EVs will grow'. 'That's why we've committed to providing a full spectrum of choice – from petrol to hybrid to electric,' he said. Subaru has committed to launch eight EVs globally by 2028, though not all will reach Australia. 'EVs will form a bigger and bigger part of the future, but not the sole part,' he said.
The Advertiser
16 hours ago
- Automotive
- The Advertiser
Subaru Australia says customers will decide its powertrains, not government
As manufacturers in Australia prepare to meet the Australian Government's New Vehicle Efficiency Standard (NVES), Subaru says it'll let its customers decide when and how its more efficient vehicles will be introduced. The NVES is designed to incentivise manufacturers to reduce CO2 emissions across their vehicle lineups, and officially commenced on January 1, 2025. Monetary penalties began on July 1, which now means manufacturers will be penalised $100 per g/km of CO2 for every vehicle that exceeds the average carbon emissions target set each year. Speaking at the Australasian launch of the sixth-generation Forester, Subaru Australia general manager Scott Lawrence said the brand had plans in the works. "First and foremost, we support initiatives to reduce CO2, and we support any actions in that space," he told CarExpert. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new car. Click here to get a great deal. ABOVE: Subaru Forester S:HEV "Our response to that is product. Making sure we've got the right product in the market. Forester Strong Hybrid is our first Strong Hybrid in the market, and that'll definitely help." Subaru's new Strong Hybrid (S:HEV) powertrain is a traditional hybrid developed with the support of technology from Toyota. It's intended to be a substantial upgrade over the hybrid available with the previous generation, bringing improved performance and fuel economy. The Japanese brand also has only one electric vehicle (EV) here, the slow-selling Solterra SUV, which was developed in partnership with Toyota and twinned with that brand's bZ4X. While the Forester is expected to sell well given the nameplate's figures in recent years, the Solterra is currently down 56.5 per cent year-to-date with only 121 deliveries in 2025. The remainder of Subaru's lineup is dominated by petrol-only vehicles, ranging from the small and economy-focused Impreza to the sporty turbocharged WRX. This is despite the availability of mild-hybrid e-Boxer versions of the Impreza overseas. ABOVE: Subaru Crosstrek S:HEV The Crosstrek e-Boxer hybrid has also been available in Australia since 2023, which like the outgoing Forester hybrid falls short of rivals from Toyota in terms of fuel economy. However, Subaru does offer a Crosstrek S:HEV in Japan, which features a similar powertrain to the new Forester and could potentially be brought here. Additionally, Subaru recently unveiled the Trailseeker EV in the United States, while the Uncharted EV made its debut last week. These models have not been confirmed for Australia, but like the Solterra, they are twinned with Toyota models – the bZ4X Touring and C-HR+, respectively. "We'll offer Strong Hybrid, and we'll offer EV too. We'll continue to expand that EV range in line with [Subaru Corporation's] ambition to grow them. So, multi-powertrain." ABOVE: Updated Subaru Solterra (left) and Subaru Trailseeker Under the NVES, manufacturers must meet a set average carbon emissions target across their lineup, which decreases annually. The current target is 141g/km for Type 1 vehicles, or passenger cars, which will decrease to 58g/km by 2029. For context on Subaru's situation, a petrol Forester produces 180g/km of CO2, while the Strong Hybrid produces 140g/km. Further, Subaru claims 170g/km for the 2.0-litre Impreza, 168g/km for a non-turbo Outback, and 225g/km for a manual WRX. The emissions for these comparatively popular vehicles will be challenging to offset for Subaru's EVs in Australia, especially given the current low demand for the Solterra and unclear local intentions for the Trailseeker and Uncharted. "I need to reiterate – we will also be reactive to what consumers want. They're the ultimate decider when it comes to powertrain choice and powertrain demand," Mr Lawrence added. When CarExpert asked whether Subaru Australia was concerned about meeting the current NVES emissions targets, Mr Lawrence simply replied, "no". MORE: What the first federal emission standard means for Aussie car buyers MORE: Subaru Forester, Crosstrek's new hybrid technology detailed MORE: 2026 Subaru Trailseeker looks like an Outback EV MORE: 2026 Subaru Uncharted revealed as brand's third EV MORE: Everything Subaru Content originally sourced from: As manufacturers in Australia prepare to meet the Australian Government's New Vehicle Efficiency Standard (NVES), Subaru says it'll let its customers decide when and how its more efficient vehicles will be introduced. The NVES is designed to incentivise manufacturers to reduce CO2 emissions across their vehicle lineups, and officially commenced on January 1, 2025. Monetary penalties began on July 1, which now means manufacturers will be penalised $100 per g/km of CO2 for every vehicle that exceeds the average carbon emissions target set each year. Speaking at the Australasian launch of the sixth-generation Forester, Subaru Australia general manager Scott Lawrence said the brand had plans in the works. "First and foremost, we support initiatives to reduce CO2, and we support any actions in that space," he told CarExpert. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new car. Click here to get a great deal. ABOVE: Subaru Forester S:HEV "Our response to that is product. Making sure we've got the right product in the market. Forester Strong Hybrid is our first Strong Hybrid in the market, and that'll definitely help." Subaru's new Strong Hybrid (S:HEV) powertrain is a traditional hybrid developed with the support of technology from Toyota. It's intended to be a substantial upgrade over the hybrid available with the previous generation, bringing improved performance and fuel economy. The Japanese brand also has only one electric vehicle (EV) here, the slow-selling Solterra SUV, which was developed in partnership with Toyota and twinned with that brand's bZ4X. While the Forester is expected to sell well given the nameplate's figures in recent years, the Solterra is currently down 56.5 per cent year-to-date with only 121 deliveries in 2025. The remainder of Subaru's lineup is dominated by petrol-only vehicles, ranging from the small and economy-focused Impreza to the sporty turbocharged WRX. This is despite the availability of mild-hybrid e-Boxer versions of the Impreza overseas. ABOVE: Subaru Crosstrek S:HEV The Crosstrek e-Boxer hybrid has also been available in Australia since 2023, which like the outgoing Forester hybrid falls short of rivals from Toyota in terms of fuel economy. However, Subaru does offer a Crosstrek S:HEV in Japan, which features a similar powertrain to the new Forester and could potentially be brought here. Additionally, Subaru recently unveiled the Trailseeker EV in the United States, while the Uncharted EV made its debut last week. These models have not been confirmed for Australia, but like the Solterra, they are twinned with Toyota models – the bZ4X Touring and C-HR+, respectively. "We'll offer Strong Hybrid, and we'll offer EV too. We'll continue to expand that EV range in line with [Subaru Corporation's] ambition to grow them. So, multi-powertrain." ABOVE: Updated Subaru Solterra (left) and Subaru Trailseeker Under the NVES, manufacturers must meet a set average carbon emissions target across their lineup, which decreases annually. The current target is 141g/km for Type 1 vehicles, or passenger cars, which will decrease to 58g/km by 2029. For context on Subaru's situation, a petrol Forester produces 180g/km of CO2, while the Strong Hybrid produces 140g/km. Further, Subaru claims 170g/km for the 2.0-litre Impreza, 168g/km for a non-turbo Outback, and 225g/km for a manual WRX. The emissions for these comparatively popular vehicles will be challenging to offset for Subaru's EVs in Australia, especially given the current low demand for the Solterra and unclear local intentions for the Trailseeker and Uncharted. "I need to reiterate – we will also be reactive to what consumers want. They're the ultimate decider when it comes to powertrain choice and powertrain demand," Mr Lawrence added. When CarExpert asked whether Subaru Australia was concerned about meeting the current NVES emissions targets, Mr Lawrence simply replied, "no". MORE: What the first federal emission standard means for Aussie car buyers MORE: Subaru Forester, Crosstrek's new hybrid technology detailed MORE: 2026 Subaru Trailseeker looks like an Outback EV MORE: 2026 Subaru Uncharted revealed as brand's third EV MORE: Everything Subaru Content originally sourced from: As manufacturers in Australia prepare to meet the Australian Government's New Vehicle Efficiency Standard (NVES), Subaru says it'll let its customers decide when and how its more efficient vehicles will be introduced. The NVES is designed to incentivise manufacturers to reduce CO2 emissions across their vehicle lineups, and officially commenced on January 1, 2025. Monetary penalties began on July 1, which now means manufacturers will be penalised $100 per g/km of CO2 for every vehicle that exceeds the average carbon emissions target set each year. Speaking at the Australasian launch of the sixth-generation Forester, Subaru Australia general manager Scott Lawrence said the brand had plans in the works. "First and foremost, we support initiatives to reduce CO2, and we support any actions in that space," he told CarExpert. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new car. Click here to get a great deal. ABOVE: Subaru Forester S:HEV "Our response to that is product. Making sure we've got the right product in the market. Forester Strong Hybrid is our first Strong Hybrid in the market, and that'll definitely help." Subaru's new Strong Hybrid (S:HEV) powertrain is a traditional hybrid developed with the support of technology from Toyota. It's intended to be a substantial upgrade over the hybrid available with the previous generation, bringing improved performance and fuel economy. The Japanese brand also has only one electric vehicle (EV) here, the slow-selling Solterra SUV, which was developed in partnership with Toyota and twinned with that brand's bZ4X. While the Forester is expected to sell well given the nameplate's figures in recent years, the Solterra is currently down 56.5 per cent year-to-date with only 121 deliveries in 2025. The remainder of Subaru's lineup is dominated by petrol-only vehicles, ranging from the small and economy-focused Impreza to the sporty turbocharged WRX. This is despite the availability of mild-hybrid e-Boxer versions of the Impreza overseas. ABOVE: Subaru Crosstrek S:HEV The Crosstrek e-Boxer hybrid has also been available in Australia since 2023, which like the outgoing Forester hybrid falls short of rivals from Toyota in terms of fuel economy. However, Subaru does offer a Crosstrek S:HEV in Japan, which features a similar powertrain to the new Forester and could potentially be brought here. Additionally, Subaru recently unveiled the Trailseeker EV in the United States, while the Uncharted EV made its debut last week. These models have not been confirmed for Australia, but like the Solterra, they are twinned with Toyota models – the bZ4X Touring and C-HR+, respectively. "We'll offer Strong Hybrid, and we'll offer EV too. We'll continue to expand that EV range in line with [Subaru Corporation's] ambition to grow them. So, multi-powertrain." ABOVE: Updated Subaru Solterra (left) and Subaru Trailseeker Under the NVES, manufacturers must meet a set average carbon emissions target across their lineup, which decreases annually. The current target is 141g/km for Type 1 vehicles, or passenger cars, which will decrease to 58g/km by 2029. For context on Subaru's situation, a petrol Forester produces 180g/km of CO2, while the Strong Hybrid produces 140g/km. Further, Subaru claims 170g/km for the 2.0-litre Impreza, 168g/km for a non-turbo Outback, and 225g/km for a manual WRX. The emissions for these comparatively popular vehicles will be challenging to offset for Subaru's EVs in Australia, especially given the current low demand for the Solterra and unclear local intentions for the Trailseeker and Uncharted. "I need to reiterate – we will also be reactive to what consumers want. They're the ultimate decider when it comes to powertrain choice and powertrain demand," Mr Lawrence added. When CarExpert asked whether Subaru Australia was concerned about meeting the current NVES emissions targets, Mr Lawrence simply replied, "no". MORE: What the first federal emission standard means for Aussie car buyers MORE: Subaru Forester, Crosstrek's new hybrid technology detailed MORE: 2026 Subaru Trailseeker looks like an Outback EV MORE: 2026 Subaru Uncharted revealed as brand's third EV MORE: Everything Subaru Content originally sourced from: As manufacturers in Australia prepare to meet the Australian Government's New Vehicle Efficiency Standard (NVES), Subaru says it'll let its customers decide when and how its more efficient vehicles will be introduced. The NVES is designed to incentivise manufacturers to reduce CO2 emissions across their vehicle lineups, and officially commenced on January 1, 2025. Monetary penalties began on July 1, which now means manufacturers will be penalised $100 per g/km of CO2 for every vehicle that exceeds the average carbon emissions target set each year. Speaking at the Australasian launch of the sixth-generation Forester, Subaru Australia general manager Scott Lawrence said the brand had plans in the works. "First and foremost, we support initiatives to reduce CO2, and we support any actions in that space," he told CarExpert. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new car. Click here to get a great deal. ABOVE: Subaru Forester S:HEV "Our response to that is product. Making sure we've got the right product in the market. Forester Strong Hybrid is our first Strong Hybrid in the market, and that'll definitely help." Subaru's new Strong Hybrid (S:HEV) powertrain is a traditional hybrid developed with the support of technology from Toyota. It's intended to be a substantial upgrade over the hybrid available with the previous generation, bringing improved performance and fuel economy. The Japanese brand also has only one electric vehicle (EV) here, the slow-selling Solterra SUV, which was developed in partnership with Toyota and twinned with that brand's bZ4X. While the Forester is expected to sell well given the nameplate's figures in recent years, the Solterra is currently down 56.5 per cent year-to-date with only 121 deliveries in 2025. The remainder of Subaru's lineup is dominated by petrol-only vehicles, ranging from the small and economy-focused Impreza to the sporty turbocharged WRX. This is despite the availability of mild-hybrid e-Boxer versions of the Impreza overseas. ABOVE: Subaru Crosstrek S:HEV The Crosstrek e-Boxer hybrid has also been available in Australia since 2023, which like the outgoing Forester hybrid falls short of rivals from Toyota in terms of fuel economy. However, Subaru does offer a Crosstrek S:HEV in Japan, which features a similar powertrain to the new Forester and could potentially be brought here. Additionally, Subaru recently unveiled the Trailseeker EV in the United States, while the Uncharted EV made its debut last week. These models have not been confirmed for Australia, but like the Solterra, they are twinned with Toyota models – the bZ4X Touring and C-HR+, respectively. "We'll offer Strong Hybrid, and we'll offer EV too. We'll continue to expand that EV range in line with [Subaru Corporation's] ambition to grow them. So, multi-powertrain." ABOVE: Updated Subaru Solterra (left) and Subaru Trailseeker Under the NVES, manufacturers must meet a set average carbon emissions target across their lineup, which decreases annually. The current target is 141g/km for Type 1 vehicles, or passenger cars, which will decrease to 58g/km by 2029. For context on Subaru's situation, a petrol Forester produces 180g/km of CO2, while the Strong Hybrid produces 140g/km. Further, Subaru claims 170g/km for the 2.0-litre Impreza, 168g/km for a non-turbo Outback, and 225g/km for a manual WRX. The emissions for these comparatively popular vehicles will be challenging to offset for Subaru's EVs in Australia, especially given the current low demand for the Solterra and unclear local intentions for the Trailseeker and Uncharted. "I need to reiterate – we will also be reactive to what consumers want. They're the ultimate decider when it comes to powertrain choice and powertrain demand," Mr Lawrence added. When CarExpert asked whether Subaru Australia was concerned about meeting the current NVES emissions targets, Mr Lawrence simply replied, "no". MORE: What the first federal emission standard means for Aussie car buyers MORE: Subaru Forester, Crosstrek's new hybrid technology detailed MORE: 2026 Subaru Trailseeker looks like an Outback EV MORE: 2026 Subaru Uncharted revealed as brand's third EV MORE: Everything Subaru Content originally sourced from:
7NEWS
16 hours ago
- Automotive
- 7NEWS
Subaru Australia says customers will decide its powertrains, not government
As manufacturers in Australia prepare to meet the Australian Government's New Vehicle Efficiency Standard (NVES), Subaru says it'll let its customers decide when and how its more efficient vehicles will be introduced. The NVES is designed to incentivise manufacturers to reduce CO2 emissions across their vehicle lineups, and officially commenced on January 1, 2025. Monetary penalties began on July 1, which now means manufacturers will be penalised $100 per g/km of CO2 for every vehicle that exceeds the average carbon emissions target set each year. Speaking at the Australasian launch of the sixth-generation Forester, Subaru Australia general manager Scott Lawrence said the brand had plans in the works. 'First and foremost, we support initiatives to reduce CO2, and we support any actions in that space,' he told CarExpert. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new car. Click here to get a great deal. ABOVE: Subaru Forester S:HEV 'Our response to that is product. Making sure we've got the right product in the market. Forester Strong Hybrid is our first Strong Hybrid in the market, and that'll definitely help.' Subaru's new Strong Hybrid (S:HEV) powertrain is a traditional hybrid developed with the support of technology from Toyota. It's intended to be a substantial upgrade over the hybrid available with the previous generation, bringing improved performance and fuel economy. The Japanese brand also has only one electric vehicle (EV) here, the slow-selling Solterra SUV, which was developed in partnership with Toyota and twinned with that brand's bZ4X. While the Forester is expected to sell well given the nameplate's figures in recent years, the Solterra is currently down 56.5 per cent year-to-date with only 121 deliveries in 2025. The remainder of Subaru's lineup is dominated by petrol-only vehicles, ranging from the small and economy-focused Impreza to the sporty turbocharged WRX. This is despite the availability of mild-hybrid e-Boxer versions of the Impreza overseas. ABOVE: Subaru Crosstrek S:HEV The Crosstrek e-Boxer hybrid has also been available in Australia since 2023, which like the outgoing Forester hybrid falls short of rivals from Toyota in terms of fuel economy. However, Subaru does offer a Crosstrek S:HEV in Japan, which features a similar powertrain to the new Forester and could potentially be brought here. Additionally, Subaru recently unveiled the Trailseeker EV in the United States, while the Uncharted EV made its debut last week. These models have not been confirmed for Australia, but like the Solterra, they are twinned with Toyota models – the bZ4X Touring and C-HR+, respectively. 'Ultimately though, consumers will choose. What we see playing out is we're going to continue to offer [internal combustion] for as long as it's possible, again because consumers will choose,' Mr Lawrence told CarExpert. 'We'll offer Strong Hybrid, and we'll offer EV too. We'll continue to expand that EV range in line with [Subaru Corporation's] ambition to grow them. So, multi-powertrain.' ABOVE: Updated Subaru Solterra (left) and Subaru Trailseeker Under the NVES, manufacturers must meet a set average carbon emissions target across their lineup, which decreases annually. The current target is 141g/km for Type 1 vehicles, or passenger cars, which will decrease to 58g/km by 2029. For context on Subaru's situation, a petrol Forester produces 180g/km of CO2, while the Strong Hybrid produces 140g/km. Further, Subaru claims 170g/km for the 2.0-litre Impreza, 168g/km for a non-turbo Outback, and 225g/km for a manual WRX. The emissions for these comparatively popular vehicles will be challenging to offset for Subaru's EVs in Australia, especially given the current low demand for the Solterra and unclear local intentions for the Trailseeker and Uncharted. 'I need to reiterate – we will also be reactive to what consumers want. They're the ultimate decider when it comes to powertrain choice and powertrain demand,' Mr Lawrence added. When CarExpert asked whether Subaru Australia was concerned about meeting the current NVES emissions targets, Mr Lawrence simply replied, 'no'.
Perth Now
16 hours ago
- Automotive
- Perth Now
Subaru Australia says customers will decide its powertrains, not government
As manufacturers in Australia prepare to meet the Australian Government's New Vehicle Efficiency Standard (NVES), Subaru says it'll let its customers decide when and how its more efficient vehicles will be introduced. The NVES is designed to incentivise manufacturers to reduce CO2 emissions across their vehicle lineups, and officially commenced on January 1, 2025. Monetary penalties began on July 1, which now means manufacturers will be penalised $100 per g/km of CO2 for every vehicle that exceeds the average carbon emissions target set each year. Speaking at the Australasian launch of the sixth-generation Forester, Subaru Australia general manager Scott Lawrence said the brand had plans in the works. 'First and foremost, we support initiatives to reduce CO2, and we support any actions in that space,' he told CarExpert. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new car. Click here to get a great deal. Supplied Credit: CarExpert ABOVE: Subaru Forester S:HEV 'Our response to that is product. Making sure we've got the right product in the market. Forester Strong Hybrid is our first Strong Hybrid in the market, and that'll definitely help.' Subaru's new Strong Hybrid (S:HEV) powertrain is a traditional hybrid developed with the support of technology from Toyota. It's intended to be a substantial upgrade over the hybrid available with the previous generation, bringing improved performance and fuel economy. The Japanese brand also has only one electric vehicle (EV) here, the slow-selling Solterra SUV, which was developed in partnership with Toyota and twinned with that brand's bZ4X. While the Forester is expected to sell well given the nameplate's figures in recent years, the Solterra is currently down 56.5 per cent year-to-date with only 121 deliveries in 2025. The remainder of Subaru's lineup is dominated by petrol-only vehicles, ranging from the small and economy-focused Impreza to the sporty turbocharged WRX. This is despite the availability of mild-hybrid e-Boxer versions of the Impreza overseas. Supplied Credit: CarExpert ABOVE: Subaru Crosstrek S:HEV The Crosstrek e-Boxer hybrid has also been available in Australia since 2023, which like the outgoing Forester hybrid falls short of rivals from Toyota in terms of fuel economy. However, Subaru does offer a Crosstrek S:HEV in Japan, which features a similar powertrain to the new Forester and could potentially be brought here. Additionally, Subaru recently unveiled the Trailseeker EV in the United States, while the Uncharted EV made its debut last week. These models have not been confirmed for Australia, but like the Solterra, they are twinned with Toyota models – the bZ4X Touring and C-HR+, respectively. 'Ultimately though, consumers will choose. What we see playing out is we're going to continue to offer [internal combustion] for as long as it's possible, again because consumers will choose,' Mr Lawrence told CarExpert. 'We'll offer Strong Hybrid, and we'll offer EV too. We'll continue to expand that EV range in line with [Subaru Corporation's] ambition to grow them. So, multi-powertrain.' Supplied Credit: CarExpert Supplied Credit: CarExpert ABOVE: Updated Subaru Solterra (left) and Subaru Trailseeker Under the NVES, manufacturers must meet a set average carbon emissions target across their lineup, which decreases annually. The current target is 141g/km for Type 1 vehicles, or passenger cars, which will decrease to 58g/km by 2029. For context on Subaru's situation, a petrol Forester produces 180g/km of CO2, while the Strong Hybrid produces 140g/km. Further, Subaru claims 170g/km for the 2.0-litre Impreza, 168g/km for a non-turbo Outback, and 225g/km for a manual WRX. The emissions for these comparatively popular vehicles will be challenging to offset for Subaru's EVs in Australia, especially given the current low demand for the Solterra and unclear local intentions for the Trailseeker and Uncharted. 'I need to reiterate – we will also be reactive to what consumers want. They're the ultimate decider when it comes to powertrain choice and powertrain demand,' Mr Lawrence added. When CarExpert asked whether Subaru Australia was concerned about meeting the current NVES emissions targets, Mr Lawrence simply replied, 'no'. MORE: What the first federal emission standard means for Aussie car buyers MORE: Subaru Forester, Crosstrek's new hybrid technology detailed MORE: 2026 Subaru Trailseeker looks like an Outback EV MORE: 2026 Subaru Uncharted revealed as brand's third EV MORE: Everything Subaru
The Advertiser
20 hours ago
- Automotive
- The Advertiser
Subaru says it isn't concerned about the influx of cheap Chinese cars
While more budget-oriented models appear to be entering the Australian auto market every month, their potential to steal market share isn't a concern for Subaru Australia, according to general manager Scott Lawrence. Australia's cheapest new car may still be the Kia Picanto, priced at $18,690 before on-road costs, but there has been increasing competition from the likes of MG, GWM, Chery, and even Mahindra in recent times, all of which have introduced either hatchbacks or SUVs available for less than $30,000. The MG 3 hatch starts at $21,990 drive-away, the Chery Tiggo 4 and Mahindra XUV 3XO small SUVs at $23,990 drive-away, and the GWM Haval Jolion small SUV at $26,990 drive-away. Subaru's cheapest model, meanwhile, is the Impreza hatch for $31,990 before on-roads. Despite that, Mr Lawrence told CarExpert at the launch of the sixth-generation Forester that Subaru has "always been a premium brand", with limited intentions to attract budget buyers. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. ABOVE: Chery Tiggo 4 (left) and Mahindra XUV 3XO (right) "We've always focused on reliability and cars at a good price point that represent great value," he said. "We've never really competed in the really price-sensitive segment; that's not for our customers, it's not for our product." While Subaru sales were up 3.4 per cent last month compared to June 2024, they were down 8.4 per cent in the first six months of 2025, and several models are selling more slowly than they did last year, including the Impreza with just 939 buyers so far this year – fewer than even the sportier and more expensive WRX. The Impreza is being comprehensively outsold by the smaller and cheaper MG 3 (5286) and even the BYD Dolphin electric hatch (1337), despite the fact it's priced similarly at $29,990 before on-roads. "Yes, there's a lot of competition in the market. It goes back to what I'm here to do, which is make sure we bring the right product in – [the new Forester] is incredible, the model lineup represents really good value for customers," Mr Lawrence told CarExpert. ABOVE: BYD Dolphin "[The market is] competitive, but I'm not too concerned about the entry-level, new entrants into the market. The focus is on keeping Subaru Subaru, and knowing what that is to consumers and staying true to that." Speaking at the local reveal of the sixth-generation Forester in April this year, Mr Lawrence told CarExpert that sticking true to Subaru's roots by focusing on driving characteristics, capability and safety would continue to attract customers amid increasing competition. "We've spoken a lot about the Forester Strong Hybrid with all-wheel drive. That for me is the answer to a competitive market – staying true to what your customers want. That's what we're going to keep doing. That's what I'm super focused on," he said at the time. Subaru's dip in year-to-date sales is partly due to gaps in its lineup, as the Japanese brand gears up for the new Forester and updated Solterra electric SUV. The Forester remains the brand's best-selling model, with 6495 units shifted so far this year, although the Crosstrek small SUV is close behind at 6002. ABOVE: Sixth-generation Forester Mr Lawrence has previously outlined that Subaru has "good ambitions" for the new Forester, first customer deliveries of which have already taken place for early-bird buyers who pre-ordered the all-new mid-size SUV. He said early interest in the new Forester was strong and that the sales split between petrol variants and the new Strong Hybrid grades was about 40-60 per cent in favour of the latter. This is despite the new Forester being nearly $5000 more expensive than the model it replaces, and the cheapest hybrid variant being $5500 pricier than the most affordable (front-wheel drive) hybrid version of the updated GWM Haval H6. Mr Lawrence told CarExpert that Subaru hopes the two powertrains will help attract both previous Forester buyers and those less familiar with the brand. "It's both. Particularly the Strong Hybrid, that's our best way to attract new buyers as well," he said. MORE: Subaru sticks to its guns against increasing competition MORE: Everything Subaru Content originally sourced from: While more budget-oriented models appear to be entering the Australian auto market every month, their potential to steal market share isn't a concern for Subaru Australia, according to general manager Scott Lawrence. Australia's cheapest new car may still be the Kia Picanto, priced at $18,690 before on-road costs, but there has been increasing competition from the likes of MG, GWM, Chery, and even Mahindra in recent times, all of which have introduced either hatchbacks or SUVs available for less than $30,000. The MG 3 hatch starts at $21,990 drive-away, the Chery Tiggo 4 and Mahindra XUV 3XO small SUVs at $23,990 drive-away, and the GWM Haval Jolion small SUV at $26,990 drive-away. Subaru's cheapest model, meanwhile, is the Impreza hatch for $31,990 before on-roads. Despite that, Mr Lawrence told CarExpert at the launch of the sixth-generation Forester that Subaru has "always been a premium brand", with limited intentions to attract budget buyers. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. ABOVE: Chery Tiggo 4 (left) and Mahindra XUV 3XO (right) "We've always focused on reliability and cars at a good price point that represent great value," he said. "We've never really competed in the really price-sensitive segment; that's not for our customers, it's not for our product." While Subaru sales were up 3.4 per cent last month compared to June 2024, they were down 8.4 per cent in the first six months of 2025, and several models are selling more slowly than they did last year, including the Impreza with just 939 buyers so far this year – fewer than even the sportier and more expensive WRX. The Impreza is being comprehensively outsold by the smaller and cheaper MG 3 (5286) and even the BYD Dolphin electric hatch (1337), despite the fact it's priced similarly at $29,990 before on-roads. "Yes, there's a lot of competition in the market. It goes back to what I'm here to do, which is make sure we bring the right product in – [the new Forester] is incredible, the model lineup represents really good value for customers," Mr Lawrence told CarExpert. ABOVE: BYD Dolphin "[The market is] competitive, but I'm not too concerned about the entry-level, new entrants into the market. The focus is on keeping Subaru Subaru, and knowing what that is to consumers and staying true to that." Speaking at the local reveal of the sixth-generation Forester in April this year, Mr Lawrence told CarExpert that sticking true to Subaru's roots by focusing on driving characteristics, capability and safety would continue to attract customers amid increasing competition. "We've spoken a lot about the Forester Strong Hybrid with all-wheel drive. That for me is the answer to a competitive market – staying true to what your customers want. That's what we're going to keep doing. That's what I'm super focused on," he said at the time. Subaru's dip in year-to-date sales is partly due to gaps in its lineup, as the Japanese brand gears up for the new Forester and updated Solterra electric SUV. The Forester remains the brand's best-selling model, with 6495 units shifted so far this year, although the Crosstrek small SUV is close behind at 6002. ABOVE: Sixth-generation Forester Mr Lawrence has previously outlined that Subaru has "good ambitions" for the new Forester, first customer deliveries of which have already taken place for early-bird buyers who pre-ordered the all-new mid-size SUV. He said early interest in the new Forester was strong and that the sales split between petrol variants and the new Strong Hybrid grades was about 40-60 per cent in favour of the latter. This is despite the new Forester being nearly $5000 more expensive than the model it replaces, and the cheapest hybrid variant being $5500 pricier than the most affordable (front-wheel drive) hybrid version of the updated GWM Haval H6. Mr Lawrence told CarExpert that Subaru hopes the two powertrains will help attract both previous Forester buyers and those less familiar with the brand. "It's both. Particularly the Strong Hybrid, that's our best way to attract new buyers as well," he said. MORE: Subaru sticks to its guns against increasing competition MORE: Everything Subaru Content originally sourced from: While more budget-oriented models appear to be entering the Australian auto market every month, their potential to steal market share isn't a concern for Subaru Australia, according to general manager Scott Lawrence. Australia's cheapest new car may still be the Kia Picanto, priced at $18,690 before on-road costs, but there has been increasing competition from the likes of MG, GWM, Chery, and even Mahindra in recent times, all of which have introduced either hatchbacks or SUVs available for less than $30,000. The MG 3 hatch starts at $21,990 drive-away, the Chery Tiggo 4 and Mahindra XUV 3XO small SUVs at $23,990 drive-away, and the GWM Haval Jolion small SUV at $26,990 drive-away. Subaru's cheapest model, meanwhile, is the Impreza hatch for $31,990 before on-roads. Despite that, Mr Lawrence told CarExpert at the launch of the sixth-generation Forester that Subaru has "always been a premium brand", with limited intentions to attract budget buyers. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. ABOVE: Chery Tiggo 4 (left) and Mahindra XUV 3XO (right) "We've always focused on reliability and cars at a good price point that represent great value," he said. "We've never really competed in the really price-sensitive segment; that's not for our customers, it's not for our product." While Subaru sales were up 3.4 per cent last month compared to June 2024, they were down 8.4 per cent in the first six months of 2025, and several models are selling more slowly than they did last year, including the Impreza with just 939 buyers so far this year – fewer than even the sportier and more expensive WRX. The Impreza is being comprehensively outsold by the smaller and cheaper MG 3 (5286) and even the BYD Dolphin electric hatch (1337), despite the fact it's priced similarly at $29,990 before on-roads. "Yes, there's a lot of competition in the market. It goes back to what I'm here to do, which is make sure we bring the right product in – [the new Forester] is incredible, the model lineup represents really good value for customers," Mr Lawrence told CarExpert. ABOVE: BYD Dolphin "[The market is] competitive, but I'm not too concerned about the entry-level, new entrants into the market. The focus is on keeping Subaru Subaru, and knowing what that is to consumers and staying true to that." Speaking at the local reveal of the sixth-generation Forester in April this year, Mr Lawrence told CarExpert that sticking true to Subaru's roots by focusing on driving characteristics, capability and safety would continue to attract customers amid increasing competition. "We've spoken a lot about the Forester Strong Hybrid with all-wheel drive. That for me is the answer to a competitive market – staying true to what your customers want. That's what we're going to keep doing. That's what I'm super focused on," he said at the time. Subaru's dip in year-to-date sales is partly due to gaps in its lineup, as the Japanese brand gears up for the new Forester and updated Solterra electric SUV. The Forester remains the brand's best-selling model, with 6495 units shifted so far this year, although the Crosstrek small SUV is close behind at 6002. ABOVE: Sixth-generation Forester Mr Lawrence has previously outlined that Subaru has "good ambitions" for the new Forester, first customer deliveries of which have already taken place for early-bird buyers who pre-ordered the all-new mid-size SUV. He said early interest in the new Forester was strong and that the sales split between petrol variants and the new Strong Hybrid grades was about 40-60 per cent in favour of the latter. This is despite the new Forester being nearly $5000 more expensive than the model it replaces, and the cheapest hybrid variant being $5500 pricier than the most affordable (front-wheel drive) hybrid version of the updated GWM Haval H6. Mr Lawrence told CarExpert that Subaru hopes the two powertrains will help attract both previous Forester buyers and those less familiar with the brand. "It's both. Particularly the Strong Hybrid, that's our best way to attract new buyers as well," he said. MORE: Subaru sticks to its guns against increasing competition MORE: Everything Subaru Content originally sourced from: While more budget-oriented models appear to be entering the Australian auto market every month, their potential to steal market share isn't a concern for Subaru Australia, according to general manager Scott Lawrence. Australia's cheapest new car may still be the Kia Picanto, priced at $18,690 before on-road costs, but there has been increasing competition from the likes of MG, GWM, Chery, and even Mahindra in recent times, all of which have introduced either hatchbacks or SUVs available for less than $30,000. The MG 3 hatch starts at $21,990 drive-away, the Chery Tiggo 4 and Mahindra XUV 3XO small SUVs at $23,990 drive-away, and the GWM Haval Jolion small SUV at $26,990 drive-away. Subaru's cheapest model, meanwhile, is the Impreza hatch for $31,990 before on-roads. Despite that, Mr Lawrence told CarExpert at the launch of the sixth-generation Forester that Subaru has "always been a premium brand", with limited intentions to attract budget buyers. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. ABOVE: Chery Tiggo 4 (left) and Mahindra XUV 3XO (right) "We've always focused on reliability and cars at a good price point that represent great value," he said. "We've never really competed in the really price-sensitive segment; that's not for our customers, it's not for our product." While Subaru sales were up 3.4 per cent last month compared to June 2024, they were down 8.4 per cent in the first six months of 2025, and several models are selling more slowly than they did last year, including the Impreza with just 939 buyers so far this year – fewer than even the sportier and more expensive WRX. The Impreza is being comprehensively outsold by the smaller and cheaper MG 3 (5286) and even the BYD Dolphin electric hatch (1337), despite the fact it's priced similarly at $29,990 before on-roads. "Yes, there's a lot of competition in the market. It goes back to what I'm here to do, which is make sure we bring the right product in – [the new Forester] is incredible, the model lineup represents really good value for customers," Mr Lawrence told CarExpert. ABOVE: BYD Dolphin "[The market is] competitive, but I'm not too concerned about the entry-level, new entrants into the market. The focus is on keeping Subaru Subaru, and knowing what that is to consumers and staying true to that." Speaking at the local reveal of the sixth-generation Forester in April this year, Mr Lawrence told CarExpert that sticking true to Subaru's roots by focusing on driving characteristics, capability and safety would continue to attract customers amid increasing competition. "We've spoken a lot about the Forester Strong Hybrid with all-wheel drive. That for me is the answer to a competitive market – staying true to what your customers want. That's what we're going to keep doing. That's what I'm super focused on," he said at the time. Subaru's dip in year-to-date sales is partly due to gaps in its lineup, as the Japanese brand gears up for the new Forester and updated Solterra electric SUV. The Forester remains the brand's best-selling model, with 6495 units shifted so far this year, although the Crosstrek small SUV is close behind at 6002. ABOVE: Sixth-generation Forester Mr Lawrence has previously outlined that Subaru has "good ambitions" for the new Forester, first customer deliveries of which have already taken place for early-bird buyers who pre-ordered the all-new mid-size SUV. He said early interest in the new Forester was strong and that the sales split between petrol variants and the new Strong Hybrid grades was about 40-60 per cent in favour of the latter. This is despite the new Forester being nearly $5000 more expensive than the model it replaces, and the cheapest hybrid variant being $5500 pricier than the most affordable (front-wheel drive) hybrid version of the updated GWM Haval H6. Mr Lawrence told CarExpert that Subaru hopes the two powertrains will help attract both previous Forester buyers and those less familiar with the brand. "It's both. Particularly the Strong Hybrid, that's our best way to attract new buyers as well," he said. MORE: Subaru sticks to its guns against increasing competition MORE: Everything Subaru Content originally sourced from:
