Subaru of Indiana Automotive (SIA) commenced hybrid vehicle production on Feb. 2, 2026, marking a milestone as the automaker’s first U.S.-assembled hybrid. A 2026 Forester Hybrid Premium in Autumn Green Metallic rolled off the Lafayette, Indiana assembly line at 11:53 a.m. EST.
Highlights
- First U.S.-produced Subaru hybrid: The 2026 Forester Hybrid represents five years of preparation for hybrid assembly capabilities at the Indiana facility.
- Complete Forester consolidation: All Subaru Forester models sold in the U.S. are now assembled at the Lafayette plant, including gas and hybrid variants.
- IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK+ earned: The 2026 Forester marks the model’s 10th consecutive top safety rating, covering all trim levels including hybrid versions.
- Production milestone: SIA has assembled more than 6 million Subaru vehicles since operations began in 1989.
Production Expansion Details
The hybrid launch follows SIA’s Oct. 7, 2025 start of 2026 Forester gas model production. With this addition, the facility now produces both of Subaru’s most popular U.S. models: the Forester and Crosstrek.
“Bringing hybrid vehicle assembly to our facility has been in the works for five years,” said Scott Brand, president and chief operating officer of SIA. “Seeing the start of mass production is the culmination of a lot of hard work by our associates.”
Trim Levels and Availability
The 2026 Subaru Forester is available in six trim configurations:
- Gas model: Base, Premium, Sport, Limited, Touring, and Wilderness
- Hybrid model: Premium, Sport, Limited, and Touring
Both variants are available at Subaru retailers nationwide.
Standard Safety Technology
Every 2026 Forester includes the latest generation of Subaru EyeSight Driver Assist Technology with the following features:
- Advanced Adaptive Cruise Control with Lane Centering
- Steering Responsive Headlights
- High Beam Assist
Facility Overview
SIA remains Subaru’s only manufacturing facility outside Japan. The plant currently assembles three models: Ascent, Crosstrek, and Forester. The facility employs approximately 6,500 associates.
For more information, visit subaru-sia.com.
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