Sexy Sumo Wrestlers (UPDATE)

Subaru Forester 2009 Ads Now in Print

Last month, TrendHunter.com brought you Subaru's Sexy Sumo Carwash Video, and this week we are following up with the print campaign.

The idea is quite fresh: Let's get a couple of huge Japanese sumo wrestlers to pose seductively next to the new Subaru Forester 2009. That will show everyone that “Japanese SUVs just got a little sexier!” Right?

Well, creative director Andrew Simon at DDB, Toronto seems to think so. And the result is not sexy, but a totally hilarious print ad campaign that is sure to bring a smile to your face. I particularly like the analogy between Japanese SUVs and sumo wrestlers. The sumo wrestlers get all sexy at the car wash, gas station, and at a barn.

The June 2008 ads were created with art director Paul Riss and copywriter Matt Antonello.

Japanese-inspired Advertising
Opportunity for companies to incorporate Japanese culture and aesthetics into their marketing campaigns.
Humorous Advertising
Opportunity for companies to use humor to capture the attention of their target audience.
Unconventional Use of Models
Opportunity for companies to feature models who don't fit into traditional beauty standards in their ads.

Industries Being Reshaped

Automotive
Opportunity for car companies to use out-of-the-box advertising to differentiate themselves in a crowded market.
Fashion
Opportunity for fashion companies to incorporate Japanese-inspired designs and aesthetics in their collections.
Beauty
Opportunity for beauty companies to promote diversity and inclusivity by featuring unconventional models in their campaigns.
SCORE
4.8 out of 10
GENDER
70% Men30% Women
MARKETTop markets: North America, Europe
GENERATION
  • Gen Z
  • Gen Alpha
  • Gen X
  • Millennial (primary audience)
POPULARITY
Popularity 74%
Activity 62%
Freshness 8%

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