Automakers are constantly trying to make their offerings appeal to new drivers, but they don't want to ignore people who have already invested in the brand. Kelley Blue Book's shopper loyalty survey found that Subaru is making great strides with drivers when it comes to brand loyalty. In the first quarter of 2013, the Japanese manufacturer boasted the third-highest loyalty rating, behind only Toyota and Honda.
The new lineup from Subaru has a lot to do with its strong performance in the loyalty rankings. Hybrid cars, in addition to a slate of redesigns for some classic models, have propelled the brand into the spotlight.
Subaru drivers appreciate the brand's dependability. Standard vehicle maintenance, decent fuel economy and top technological features also help to make its vehicles more attractive to customers.
"As current Subaru owners prepare to off-load their current vehicle, it is easy to reconsider the brand as it offers a diverse lineup, including models that not only appeal to the everyday shopper like the all-new 2014 Forester, but also a sportier option like the BRZ," said Akshay Anand, an analyst at Kelley Blue Book. "... The 2014 XV Crosstrek Hybrid is expected to help the brand retain even more shoppers as its portfolio expands into hybrid technology."