Subaru Posts Record Sales for First Half of 2010

"New England College Car" Gaining Mainstream Appeal

BRAINTREE, MASS (07/20/2010)(readMedia)-- Subaru continued to set new U.S. sales records throughout the first half of 2010, selling 125,960 vehicles through June 30 for a year-to-date sales increase of 35%. Record June sales of 21,601 vehicles were led by the Subaru Outback SUV, which saw sales rise 76% over June 2009 and year-to-date sales growing by 117%. Massachusetts Subaru dealers are noticing the growth in customers firsthand.

"The strength in Subaru sales shows that car buyers are putting performance and function ahead of gimmicks and design," said Sean Ternullo, General Manager of Quirk Works Subaru in Braintree, a Greater Boston Subaru dealer. "Subaru's American division came of age fighting the tough road conditions and weather in New England, where people demand practical cars. Now the rest of America is discovering the great engineering that Subaru offers."

Subaru has long been the odd duck in the U.S. auto market. Early Subaru advertisements touted the vehicles as "cheap and ugly," and even some recent models were still more box than beauty. Looks aside, Subaru quickly became a favorite car among cost-conscious college students and professors in the Northeast, who were drawn to the roomy interiors and standard all-wheel drive that provided extra control on winter roads.

A 48% customer retention rate, reported by J.D. Power and Associates, has allowed Subaru to grow with its customers and build brand recognition beyond the borders of its New England owner base. In recent years, Subaru has found footing in the import tuner market thanks to its participation in rally racing, and won fans among outdoor enthusiasts who prize Subarus for their cargo space and ability to handle off-road terrain.

With an eye toward growing its success, Subaru hired former Suzuki designer Osamu Namba to tackle the company's ugly duckling image. Namba's Subaru Hybrid Tourer concept car appeared at the 2009 Tokyo Auto Show sporting gullwing doors and a sleek, sloping design that eliminates the bubble-top look common to current Subaru models. Massachusetts Subaru customers will get their first look at Namba's refinements with the next generation of the Subaru Impreza.

"These design changes will only contribute to Subaru's appeal," Ternullo said. "Subaru customers know that they get excellent room and handling for their money, and there is a certain charm to the design. Subaru had decided that it's time for its looks to catch up to the quality of its handling, convenience and comfort. It's not just a college car anymore."

About Quirk Works Subaru:

Quirk Auto dealerships have been servicing the automotive needs of its customers for over 30 years. Quirk Works Subaru is the newest addition to the Quirk family of dealerships and has quickly emerged as a leading Greater Boston Subaru dealer. Whether you're looking for quality Subaru service or the best deals on new Subaru models, including the Forester, Outback, Impreza and Legacy, Quirk Works Subaru is guaranteed to leave you satisfied. To learn more about one of the top Subaru dealers in the United States, visit Quirk online at www.quirkworkssubaru.com, call them at 877-624-9954 or stop by their showroom at 442 Quincy Ave., Braintree, MA.