Subaru Rejects Reports of Tribeca Phase-Out for 2013
Subaru has denied claims that the Tribeca SUV would be discontinued after 2012, insisting production continues for the 2013 model year despite declining sales.
Subaru has formally denied reports that the Tribeca SUV would be discontinued after the 2012 model year, confirming that the vehicle remains in production for 2013. The company issued this clarification after Motortrend magazine published claims suggesting an imminent phase-out, citing weak sales and intense competition in the midsize SUV market.
Subaru Responds to Tribeca Discontinuation Rumours
Motortrend Report Sparks Speculation
The speculation about the future of the Tribeca began when Motortrend reported that Subaru would end production of the model by the end of 2012. This report was based on the Tribeca’s declining sales figures and its struggle to compete with more popular rivals in the segment. According to Motortrend, the midsize crossover had failed to make a significant impact, leading to rumours that Subaru was ready to cut its losses.
Subaru’s Official Position
In response to these claims, Subaru addressed the issue directly. A spokesperson told Inautonews that the story was incorrect, emphasising that the Tribeca remained in production for the 2013 model year. Subaru stated that it had not made any announcements regarding the end of production for the Tribeca. This direct denial was intended to put the rumours to rest, at least for the immediate future.
Tribeca’s Sales Performance in the US Market
Since its introduction, the Tribeca has struggled to establish itself in the competitive midsize SUV segment in the United States. Sales figures illustrate the challenge: the model sold 10,975 units in 2008, but this number dropped to 5,930 in 2009 and then to just 2,472 in 2010. There was a modest recovery in 2011, with 2,791 units sold, but this was still a small fraction of the sales achieved by competitors. For context, the Toyota Highlander, a key rival in the segment, sold over 92,000 units in the same year that Tribeca managed 2,791. This stark contrast shows how difficult it has been for Subaru to gain traction with the Tribeca in the US market.
| Model | Units Sold (2011) |
|---|---|
| Subaru Tribeca | 2,791 |
| Toyota Highlander | 92,000+ |
Market Analysis and Industry Commentary
Industry analysts have long observed that the Tribeca, while a competent vehicle, failed to distinguish itself in a crowded field. Edmunds noted that the model never achieved the popular acclaim Subaru had hoped for. The 2012 Tribeca was seen as lacking standout features, making it difficult to compete against newer, more spacious, and better-equipped family crossovers. Buyers in this segment often prioritise space, driving comfort, and modern features, areas where the Tribeca struggled to keep pace. The lack of a clear competitive advantage left the Tribeca vulnerable to being overshadowed by rivals. As competitors introduced updated models with improved technology and more appealing designs, the Tribeca’s ageing platform became a disadvantage. This situation is not uncommon for models that do not receive regular updates in fast-moving market segments.
No Official End Date for Tribeca Production
Despite ongoing speculation and persistent rumours, Subaru’s only official statement as of late May 2012 was that the Tribeca would continue into the 2013 model year. The company did not comment on plans beyond that point, leaving open the question of how long the SUV would remain in the line-up. This uncertainty is typical when a model underperforms but has not yet been formally discontinued.
The speculation surrounding the Tribeca’s future reflects broader challenges faced by manufacturers with ageing models in competitive segments. As consumer preferences shift and rivals introduce new technology, older models can quickly lose relevance. For Subaru, the decision to keep the Tribeca in production for 2013 may have been influenced by the need to maintain a presence in the midsize SUV market, even as the company evaluates its long-term strategy.
Tribeca’s Uncertain Future
For now, Subaru has confirmed that the Tribeca is not being discontinued for the 2013 model year, directly countering reports of an immediate phase-out. However, the model’s sales history and the strength of its competitors mean that its long-term prospects remain in question. The situation highlights the difficulties faced by automakers when a model fails to meet expectations in a highly competitive segment. As of the latest statements, Tribeca’s fate beyond 2013 is undecided, and further announcements from Subaru will be closely watched by industry observers and consumers alike.
