Subaru seen to make waves in 2012

Motor Image Pilipinas, the country’s distributor for Subaru cars had a mediocre year for 2011 due to a low production output globally as it is still reeling from the devastating effects of the great Japan earthquake and the giant tsunami waves that ensued, destroying a large number of production facilities for a number of Japanese car manufacturers and its parts suppliers.

There were no new major model changes in its lineup for the year, it only introduced the Minor Change Forester model. From spectacular growths in recent years enjoyed by a strong brand following by a long list of satisfied Subaru owners, a no growth scenario is considered bad for this high performance niche brand.

Subaru owners and enthusiasts need not fret though, as next year could be another banner year as Nicky Mariano, the country manager for Motor Image Pilipinas said that they will be launching the new Impreza model and introducing the crossover XV model as well as the beautiful BRZ coupe.

Subaru’s market share in the automobile market locally is only about 1 percent. But, as it begins to set up shop in various locations, starting with one in San Fernando, Pampanga, last year, and two more in Cebu and Alabang, Muntinlupa, this year, Subaru owners expect not only a bigger market share but better convenience for their after sales service as well.

The brand is made popular in this region largely by the efforts of Motor Image Group, the parent company of Motor Image Pilipinas who is also the distributor for Subaru for other South East Asian markets including Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam and Hong Kong.

A member of the Tanchiong Group of Companies based in Singapore, Motor Image popularized the brand by using Guinness Record holder Russ Swift as the brand endorser and stunt performer in major auto shows including the Manila International Auto Show regularly held during summer at the World Trade Center.

Russ Swift made another appearance in the huge and successful Thailand Motor Expo last month that highlighted the regional launch of the XV crossover SUV model to the press and public. Swift is slated to perform again at the Manila International Auto Show from March 29 to April 1, 2012, his 6th appearance in the Philippines.